Pony of the Americas

Looks how to spot one

Short, sleek coat with Appaloosa-like patterns

The Pony of the Americas has a compact, athletic body with a refined head and strong legs. Its coat is typically short and smooth, and it must display a distinctive Appaloosa-type pattern, such as spots, a blanket, or roaning, that is visible from a distance. Other typical features include striped hooves, white around the eye, and mottled skin on the muzzle.56

Personality what they are like

Ponies of the Americas are known for their kind, patient and willing nature. They are intelligent and learn quickly, which makes them excellent for young riders. They are also calm and reliable, with a good sense of self-assurance, and they generally have good manners when handled properly.76

Daily activity how busy a day looks

These ponies are active and athletic, needing regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They enjoy a variety of activities, including trail riding, jumping, driving, dressage and gymkhana games. They are well suited to both Western and English riding, and they thrive when given a job to do.83

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Regular grooming is needed to keep the coat clean and shiny, especially because the white areas show dirt easily. They are generally easy keepers, needing only modest feed to maintain weight. Owners should pay special attention to the eyes, as the breed can be prone to uveitis, an inflammatory eye condition. Using fly masks and providing shade can help protect their eyes from bright sunlight.3

Home where they are happiest

Ponies of the Americas are hardy and adaptable, able to live in most climates. They can be kept in a stall or on full turnout, but they need shelter from extreme weather and a safe, secure paddock. Because they are prone to eye issues, it is wise to provide shaded areas and to use fly masks during sunny periods.3

Food basics what goes in the bowl

As easy keepers, they generally require only good-quality pasture or hay, with a vitamin and mineral supplement if needed. Their diet should be adjusted according to their workload and body condition, and fresh water must always be available. Avoid overfeeding, as they can easily become overweight.3

Company who they like around

Ponies of the Americas are social animals and do best when they have companionship, whether from other horses or ponies. They are also very people-oriented and enjoy being handled and trained. They are not known to be aggressive, but they do need consistent, gentle handling to develop good manners.47

The story where it all began

The Pony of the Americas was developed in the 1950s in Mason City, Iowa, by Leslie Boomhower, a Shetland pony breeder. He bought a striking colt that was a cross of Arabian, Appaloosa and Shetland pony, and named it Black Hand. Impressed by its looks and temperament, Boomhower used this stallion as the foundation for a new breed. In 1954, he and others founded the Pony of the Americas Club, with Black Hand as the first registered pony. The aim was to create a medium-sized pony with the Appaloosa colouring, the refinement of the Arabian, and the muscle of a Quarter Horse, suitable for older children and small adults. Over time, blood from Thoroughbreds, Welsh Ponies and Quarter Horses was added. The breed quickly grew in popularity, and today it is one of the largest youth-oriented horse registries in the United States.126

Recognised by the official bits

Pony of the Americas Club, Inc.

Breed registry founded in 19541