When did the Shetland pony come to America?
The first documented importation of Shetland Ponies to the United States was in 1885, when Eli Elliot imported seventy-five of them. A breed association, the American Shetland Pony Club, was formed in 1888. The original stock was crossbred with various other breeds, principally the Hackney Pony.
Can you ride an American Shetland Pony?
The American Shetland is a horse breed from the United States, used mainly for riding and for driving carriages. Its small stature makes it an ideal ride for children, while its great form makes it ideal for horse competitions.
What is the Shetland pony known for?
Resilient and strong, Shetland ponies were used to pull carts and plow farmland, among other jobs. During the Industrial Revolution, they were sent down into mines to help haul coal. They also become popular companions for children, thanks to their gentle disposition and size.
What do I need to know about a Shetland pony?
The ponies must be small and hardy, standing at no more than 42 inches. Their minimum height is 28 inches. They have heavy coats, short legs, and a wide, dished face with small, alert ears. Their backs are broad and strong, and they have dense manes and tails.
How many hands is a Shetland pony?
The Shetland is a smaller pony with a maximum height of 46 inches (11.6 hands); however, most Shetlands stand approximately 40 inches tall at the withers.
Are Shetland ponies friendly?
Yes, Shetland ponies can be very friendly and loyal. They are intelligent and make friends with children and other ponies, as long as they are happy and treated properly.
What weight can a Shetland take?
Approximately 130 pounds (59kg). Or more simply, it can carry ten to twenty percent of its body weight. The shetland pony is widely accepted as the strongest pony breed because of it’s remarkable ability to carry weight.
Do Shetland ponies need shoes?
Yes, they need trimmed as often as a big horse. They rarely need shoes as they rarely do enough work. Either that or the shetland will need to spend the whole summer with a grazing muzzle on.