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Three Most Popular Pony Breeds

There are many different types of pony breeds that have been developed throughout the centuries. Among the many, three most popular breeds are the Welsh Pony, the Shetland pony and the Gotland Pony.

Welsh ponies originated in the hills and valleys of Whales, in Western Great Britain. These ponies height ranges between 12.2 hands high and 14.2 hands high. Chestnut, bay, brown and black are the most common colors found for Welsh ponies. Although they are not limited to those colors, gray and palomino are other possible colors found for this pony. Welsh ponies are very gentle, which makes them ideal for children and the disabled. They have natural athletic ability and are often used as hunters. Being shown in saddle seat, western classes and most popularly for driving are all common uses of the Welsh pony. Centuries ago, the ponies were used for pulling chariots in sport arenas. They also worked in coalmines and on farms.

The Shetland pony is one of the oldest breeds. They are most likely the oldest breeds in England. They are usually 11 hands high. Their colors include chestnut, black, pinto, gray, white and bay. Shetland ponies are willing, gentle, and intelligent; and are generally good-natured. They have a dense winter coat and a long, thick manes and tail. They are strong and sturdy horses. Shetland ponies are used for showing, riding and driving, amongst other things.

Gotland ponies can be found in Sweden, Denmark, Finland and the United States. Standing 11.25 hands high to 12.75 hands high are the normal range of height for this breed of pony. Most of these ponies are black, buckskin or sorrel. If two light colored Gotland ponies are bred there is a risk of an albino pony. Gotland ponies are strong children’s ponies. They are usually energetic, elastic and smooth. Dressage, competition and driving are all some of the usages of the Gotland pony. They are also used for racing in some places, such as Sweden.

Most ponies are great first horses for children and the inexperienced horseman. They are all gentle in nature and easy to work with. Many ponies are trained in working with the disabled and trained to help with their life skills.

Although there are many breed, the Gotland pony, the Shetland pony and the Welsh pony all stand out as the three most popular pony breeds. They are all similar in the way of being ideal children ponies and are all versatile in show, pleasure, and competition and as a family pet.

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