Animals

The Welsh pony originates in the hills of Wales, long before the Romans arrived. This inhospitable terrain produced a pony with an unusual strength of character, endurance and native intelligence. Only the most hardy of stock survived the semi-wild lifestyle, ensuring the modern breed is represented by excellent lines.

All Welsh ponies are descended directly and entirely from animals registered with the Welsh Pony and Cob Society in Wales. Welsh Native Ponies are divided into 4 sections:¨
Section A - The Welsh Mountain Pony is the original and smallest, probably descended from the Celtic pony, Arabian, Andalusian and Thoroughbred. Over the last 200-300 years, two Arabian stallions have roamed the Welsh Mountains to improve native stock.
Section B - Bred as a quality children's riding pony. Created by crossing Welsh Mountain mares with a small Thoroughbred stallion.
Section C - Slightly smaller version of mountain-type pony. Used for trekking, a good hunting pony for children. Used mainly in harness in the past.
Section D - Welsh Cob is slightly larger version of mountain-type pony. A cross between Welsh Mountain ponies and Spanish horses. Good trotter, used to create and improve trotting breeds worldwide.
Characteristics
Small head with concave face and crested neck. Sloping shoulders on a short back with a high tail. Short legs with neat feet. Powerful loins and hindlegs. Strong hock joints engaged well under the body.