Welsh Pony

Looks how to spot one

hair coat

Welsh ponies and cobs have small, refined heads with large eyes, sloped shoulders, short backs, strong hindquarters, straight forelegs, short cannon bones and a high-set tail. Their movement is bold, free and notably fast, especially at the trot, with powerful drive from the hocks.1

Personality what they are like

Welsh ponies and cobs are known for their friendly, trustworthy nature and even temperaments. They are spirited yet gentle, intelligent and alert, with a willingness to obey and a good disposition that makes them ideal for both children and adults.13

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Welsh ponies and cobs are active and versatile, excelling in showing, jumping, dressage, eventing, driving and pleasure riding. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation. Section B ponies are especially suited as family ponies for multi-disciplines.42

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Welsh ponies rarely need to be shod unless worked regularly on paved roads, but regular hoof trimming is essential. Routine grooming, dental care, vaccinations and deworming are standard for all horses.5

Home where they are happiest

Welsh ponies are hardy and can thrive in a variety of climates, but they require adequate shelter from extreme weather, secure fencing, and access to clean water. They do well on pasture with a dry, safe stable or field shelter.13

Food basics what goes in the bowl

A diet of good-quality hay or pasture grass, supplemented with a balanced concentrate feed if needed, and constant access to fresh water. Because they are easy keepers, care must be taken to avoid overfeeding and obesity.1

Company who they like around

Welsh ponies are social animals that thrive on companionship, whether with other horses, ponies or even other livestock. They are people-oriented and respond well to kind, consistent handling. They are not venomous, protected or illegal to keep in any country, but local regulations on horse keeping should always be followed.36

The story where it all began

The Welsh Pony and Cob has ancient roots in the mountainous region of Wales, with a lineage that predates the Roman Empire. These hardy ponies developed in a harsh, semi-wild environment, which gave them remarkable soundness, endurance and intelligence. Over centuries they served many roles on Welsh farms, from ploughing to carrying farmers to market. Arabian blood was likely introduced during the Roman occupation, but the breed retained its own dominant characteristics. The Welsh Pony and Cob Society was founded in 1901, and the breed was first imported to America in the 1880s, with the American registry established in 1907. Today, Welsh ponies and cobs are found worldwide and compete in nearly every equestrian discipline.127

Recognised by the official bits

Welsh Pony and Cob Society (WPCS)

Breed society founded in 1901 in Wales; maintains stud books for four sections (A, B, C, D)2

Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America (WPCSA)

American breed registry established in 19072