Shetland Pony

Looks how to spot one

double coat

A thick winter double coat with guard hairs that shed rain, keeping the skin dry, and a short, silky summer coat. The mane and tail are long, straight and profuse.4

Personality what they are like

Shetland ponies are intelligent, brave and famously opinionated. They form strong bonds with their handlers and other equines, and once they trust you they are wonderfully reliable. However, they can be stubborn and creative about getting their own way, so they need confident, consistent handling.25

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Shetlands need regular exercise and should be treated like normal horses despite their small size. They are ideal for children's riding and carriage driving. They thrive on being kept outdoors year-round with a field shelter.35

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Regular brushing and combing to keep the coat clean and healthy. Hooves need daily inspection with a hoof pick and brush to remove debris and check for injuries. Trim hooves every six to eight weeks; most Shetlands stay barefoot. Avoid heavy rugging as their double coat insulates well.62

Home where they are happiest

Shetlands are emphatically outdoor ponies, bred to live out year-round on rough grazing. They need a field shelter, thick hedge or stand of trees for protection. A stable is only needed for veterinary treatment or extreme weather. They are not suited to being stabled like a Thoroughbred.2

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Shetlands are very efficient digesters and easily become overweight. Feed late-cut, low-sugar meadow hay or soaked hay. Restrict grazing with a muzzle or strip-grazing. Most ponies need no hard feed; a handful of low-calorie chaff with a vitamin balancer is enough. Always provide clean water and a salt lick. Be especially careful with spring grass (March to June) to avoid laminitis.2

Company who they like around

Shetlands are ideal herd horses and need the company of other equines. They form strong attachments to their handlers and to other ponies. They are excellent for confident, well-supervised children but are not toys; a poorly handled Shetland can become cheeky.52

The story where it all began

Small ponies have lived on the Shetland Isles for over 2000 years, with bones found from the Bronze Age. They likely originated from the Cob type of Tundra and the Mountain Pony type from Southern Europe, with later Celtic introductions. The harsh island climate and sparse grazing made only the toughest survive, creating a hardy, small breed. In the 19th century, after child labour was banned in coal mines, Shetland colts were in great demand as pit ponies. Later they became popular for children to ride and for driving, with Queen Victoria owning several pairs. Today they are kept worldwide as riding and driving ponies.1

Recognised by the official bits

Shetland Pony Stud Book Society

Holds the stud-book of origin for the breed, established 18907