Off the coast of Scotland lie the Shetland Islands, native habitat of the smallest pony in Britain: the Shetland Pony. It’s thought that the breed evolved on the Scandinavian tundra and was possibly brought over by Viking raiders.The traditional Shetland Pony is sturdy and good-natured. Kostenlose Bild Shetland-Pony (Kostenlose Photobank torange.biz) / ©torange.biz CC BY 4.0
Shetlands are used for almost every aspect of equine work: harness, packing, riding, mining, novelty, and even circus acts.
The Shetland made its mark in the 19th century, as a pit pony in the coal mines. Its small size and tough nature made it the perfect worker for a coal mine, and many spent their entire lives underground.Shetland Pony photo by Ronnie Robertson on flickr/CC BY-SA 2.0
A Shetland crossed with an Appaloosa made the Pony of America, and crossing with the Hackney created the American Shetland, and the Shetland is the base for the Argentine Falabella mini.
Today, Shetlands are popular children’s riding ponies and are driven by all ages.
The Shetland is not measured in hands and stands from 28 to 46 inches in all colors except spotted. Its abundant mane and tail protect it from harsh island weather. Shetlands possess sturdy legs and hooves, wide backs and broad hindquarters.Shetland Ponies At Godrevy by Andrew on flickr/CC BY 2.0
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.
Imagine being behind the lens, capturing photos of the majestic Icelandic Horses in the mystical…
A pony has to be versatile to go from the mountains and bogs of western…
Horse breeds reflect the land where they were developed, and the Missouri Fox Trotter is…
With a history spanning 25,000 years, the Lusitano’s roots run as deep as the trees…
Imagine being behind the lens, capturing photos of the majestic Icelandic Horses in the mystical and breathtaking scenery of Iceland.…
Welcome to Barn Banter, the official podcast of Horse Illustrated. In Barn Banter episode 23, hosts Susan Friedland and Horse Illustrated…
Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the…
Read on for tips on training and correcting a horse that's rushing the jumps. Picture this: You are cantering around…
Lexington, Ky. — The Mustang Classic, the first of its kind English discipline national Mustang competition, will return to the…
From veterinarians to trainers to farriers, everyone in your stable of people helps make the ride more enjoyable—and longer-lasting. Imagine…