Welsh Cob (Section D)

Intro

All sections of Welsh types come from Wales and the Welsh Cob registers under Section D of the Welsh Pony studbook. This area has bred a horse of cob type for centuries, useful for both farm work, carriage and riding purposes.

Origins

The D Section was created from the Welsh Mountain Pony found native in Wales, bred specifically as a horse type. The exact origins of this type is a mystery, lost in the sands of time. However there has been evidence of similar animals since Medieval times. Throughout the years they have proven to be hardy, versatile and supremely useful to the people of Wales. Prior to the 20th century they were one of the fastest means of transportation, however the advent of mechanized transport put them out of favor until recently.

A renewed interest in driving competitions has given the Welsh Cob a chance to shine again and a there has been a renewed interest in their bloodlines.

4 Welsh Pony Types

Based on the blood of the mountain type, 3 other types have emerged.

Section A – Which is the mountain pony and they may not exceed 12 hands.
Section B – A slightly larger animal that stands 12 – 13.2 hands
Section C – A pony of cob type and a more robust animal standing up to 13.2 hands
Section D – The Welsh Cob which is a horse type standing taller than 13.2 hands

According to the DAD-IS, the Welsh Cob is at risk and as of 2021 there were only 1342 left.

Features

Height must exceed 13.2 hands

Physique

Head is small and well proportioned with a straight profile
Eyes are large and prominent
Ears are small and pointed
Neck is long, muscular and arched
Back is short and wide
Chest is broad and deep
Legs are short and strong with clean joints and some feathering at the fetlocks
Hooves are shapely and strong

Traditional Colors

All colors except pinto patterns

Temperament

Gentle and docile

Use

Riding horse
Light draft
Transportation
Show horse

Where to Buy

Glenhaven Welsh
Casmaran Stud
Goldenhills Welsh