Intro
The strongest pony breed for their size, Shetlands can pull twice their own body weight. This is a breed found worldwide, but the British Shetland retains more of the original characteristics of the breed and are heavier than their American counterparts.
Origins
This hardy little animal comes from the Shetland Isles NE of Scotland and their roots are unknown. Some say they originally come from ponies of Scandinavia brought during the Bronze Age. They were domesticated and later crossed with animals imported by Norse settlers. Others think they were influenced by Celtic ponies brought to the islands between 2000 and 1000 B.C.
However they came to be there, the inhospitable climate and difficult forage created an animal that is incredibly tough for its small size. Initially they were used for agriculture and later they were bred small to be used as pit ponies in coal mines. The Shetland Pony Stud Book Society of the UK was established in 1890 to preserve and document the breed. In pure form and their native land, they are considered endangered. According to the DAD-IS as of 2021 there were 1895 left.
Features
Height from 28″ to a maximum height of 42″
Physique
Head is small and with sometimes dished profile
Short, muscular neck
Stocky body with broad back
Short, strong legs
Mane and tail grows long and thick in the winter
Traditional Colors
All colors – Do not carry appaloosa or champagne genes
Temperament
Even-tempered and intelligent
Use
Riding pony
Driving pony
Pack pony
Performing pony
Therapy animals
Guide horses
Helpful Links
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Shetland Pony Stud Book Society
New Zealand Shetland Pony Breeders Society
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