In England, near the coast in southwest Hampshire, lies the beautiful New Forest. The New Forest Pony, one of the nine native breeds of the United Kingdom, has existed here since 1016 A.D.
The native ponies mixed with transient stock, Welsh ponies, Arabians and Thoroughbreds, and because of this influx the pony’s genes are more diverse than any of the British breeds. However, their distinctive type was shaped by their environment.
Today, New Forest Ponies are popular throughout the world as leisure and driving horses and excel in dressage and jumping.
The New Forest Pony does not have a lower height limit, and they can be 11 hands high or shorter. The maximum limit is 14.2 hands high.
Foresters come in all colors except palomino and pinto.
The New Forest Pony is more horse-like than the other native breeds. Viewed from the front the shoulders slope in and form withers, which is more like a horse than a pony.
The Forester must lift his shoulders and his hocks as he moves; this is functional because a low mover would have trouble in a land filled with heather and gorse.
Further Reading
This breed profile was originally published on December 15, 2006.
Horse Illustrated is the magazine for people who are passionate about horses. Each issue offers advice on horse health and care, plus user-friendly training tips for both English and western riders and engaging lifestyle features for horse lovers.
Like many draft breeds, the Percheron was used on farms across Europe and America. Today,…
Maybe it’s the flowing leg feathers, the gentle personality, or maybe it’s the height—18 hands?…
You may not have heard of the Mangalarga Marchador, but if you are looking for…
A little piece of Austrian gold, the Haflinger breed is a small horse whose hearty…
Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the…
Horse people are typically made from hardy stock, but that doesn’t negate the need for equestrian wellness—especially during winter. Self-care…
When a blanket of snow covers the lush green landscape surrounding Vista Verde Ranch, that is when Georgie gets to…
Animals have always held a special place in Kara Lawson's heart. Whether cats, dogs, rabbits, chickens, or horses, Lawson's connection…
Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 38, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated…