The pony - Everything you need to know about ponies

What is a pony?

By definition, a pony is a horse with a maximum height of 148 cm. The height is measured at the withers - the highest point of the back between the neck and shoulder. If a horse exceeds this size, it counts as either a small horse or a large horse.

But pony size is not the only distinguishing feature. Ponies often have a stronger build, a thicker mane and are particularly robust. They have been bred over centuries to survive in harsh climates, which makes them more resistant and frugal than many large horse breeds.

Difference between pony and horse

Many people believe that ponies are just small horses - but that's not entirely true. In addition to pony size, there are some clear differences between ponies and horses that not only play a role for riders, but also for keeping and using them.

The most obvious difference is the height. A pony is a horse with a maximum height at the withers of 148 cm. Anything over this is considered a small or large horse.

Characteristics of a pony

What makes a pony special? In addition to the size of the pony, there are other typical characteristics:

• Compact build with short, strong legs
• Thick fur that protects them from the cold
• Bushy mane and tail, often more robust than on large horses
• Independent character, often clever, capable of learning, but also stubborn
• Frugality in terms of food and husbandry

Pony profile

• Height: A pony may be a maximum of 148 cm tall. Anything over this counts as a small or large horse.
• Weight: Depending on the breed, the weight varies between 150 and 500 kg.
• Life expectancy: Ponies can live to be particularly old - 25 to 35 years is not uncommon.
• Physique: Compared to large horses, ponies are more compact and strong, with short legs and a broad chest.
• Coat & long hair: Ponies often have a thicker coat to protect them from the cold. Their mane and tail are usually bushier than those of large horses.
• Character: They are considered intelligent, capable of learning and independent. Some are strong-willed, others are particularly friendly and people-oriented.
• Areas of use: Ponies are popular children's ponies, but are also used as leisure horses, driving ponies or even in sport.

History and origin of the ponies

Ponies have a long and fascinating history. They are descended from the early prehistoric horses and have adapted to different habitats and climatic conditions over thousands of years. Particularly in harsh, barren regions, robust pony breeds developed that can survive on little feed and are extremely hardy.

How have ponies developed?

The ancestors of today's ponies can be traced back to prehistoric wild horses. The tarpan, a wild horse that existed in Europe until the 19th century, is particularly significant. In Scandinavia, the British Isles and the highland regions of Asia, horses increasingly adapted to inhospitable conditions - these populations gave rise to many of the pony breeds we know today.

Why are ponies so robust?

Ponies often come from regions with harsh climatic conditions. Their physique and metabolic adaptation are designed to cope with low-nutrientfeed and extreme weather conditions. They have retained these characteristics to this day and often make them healthier and more resistant than many large horse breeds.

Pony Breeds

There is a wide variety of pony breeds that differ in size, build and character. While some ponies are ideal for children and beginners, others are more suitable for experienced riders or special disciplines such as show jumping or driving.

Small pony breeds (up to approx. 120 cm)

These ponies are particularly small and are therefore often suitable as children's ponies or for light riders:

• Shetland pony - Very small, extremely robust, often stubborn, but reliable
• Falabella - One of the smallest horse breeds in the world, not suitable for riding
• Dartmoor pony - Gentle, friendly, ideal for children
• Exmoor pony - An indigenous, hardy breed with a balanced character
• Mini Shetland pony - Even smaller than normal Shetland ponies, unsuitable as mounts

Medium-sized pony breeds (120 - 140 cm stick size)

These ponies are versatile, often good-natured and are also suitable for light adults:

• Welsh pony (section A, B, C, D) - sporty, elegant, ideal for children and youngsters
• New Forest Pony - strong nerves, good-natured, popular as a family pony
• Connemara pony - Very athletic, often represented in show jumping
• Highland pony - Strong, calm and ideal for long rides
• German Riding Pony - Specially bred for competition, ideal for ambitious young riders
• Lewitzer - Spotted pony breed, very versatile, often found in driving sport

Strong pony breeds (140 - 148 cm stick size)

These ponies can often also be ridden by adults:

• Norwegian Fjord Horse - Strong, enduring, with typical wild color
• Haflinger - Often referred to as a small horse, but many remain under the pony limit
• Icelandic horse - Independent breed, officially considered a horse, but remains pony-sized
• Tinker (Irish Cob) - Strong, good-natured, often used as a leisure or therapy horse
• Dülmen wild horse - One of the few remaining wild horse breeds in Europe, robust and frugal
• Bosnian mountain horse - sure-footed, strong, originally from the Balkans

Which ponies are suitable for children and beginners?

Not every pony is automatically a good children's pony. A pony for beginners should above all be calm, good-natured and reliable. It is not only the breed that is decisive, but also the training and the individual character of the pony.

What qualities should a beginner pony have?

• Patient and friendly - it should be lenient with riding mistakes.
• Strong nerves - it must not be easily frightened or become hectic.
• Well trained - solid basic training makes handling easier.
• The right size - not too small so that older children can wear it for longer, but not too big so that they don't lose control.

Areas of application 

Ponies are extremely versatile and can be used in different areas. Whereas in the past they were mainly used as working animals, today they are popular leisure, sport and therapy horses.

Pony keeping and care - What does a pony need?

Keeping a pony requires responsibility and knowledge. Although ponies are often considered robust and frugal animals, they have special needs in terms of accommodation, feeding and care. Appropriate husbandry ensures that the pony stays healthy and feels comfortable.

How should a pony be kept?

It is important to note that ponies are herd animals and should never be kept alone. They need social contact with conspecifics or at least other grazing animals in order to feel comfortable. Sufficient exercise is essential, as many ponies tend to become overweight if they have too little activity. Keeping them in an open stable is particularly suitable for many pony breeds, as it comes closest to their natural way of life. 

Important aspects of pony keeping:

• Sufficient space: Ponies need a large pasture or paddock to be able to move around sufficiently.
• Weather-protected shelter: A stable or covered area must offer protection from rain, wind and strong sun.
• Firm ground: Especially in wet months, ponies should have access to dry surfaces to prevent hoof problems.
• Breakout-proof fences: Ponies are adept at finding gaps or weak points, so fences must be stable and secure.

How much space does a pony need?

• A pony needs at least 1500 - 2000 m² of pasture per animal.
• The stable or shelter should be at least 3 x 3 m per pony.
• In an open stable, group housing with sufficient space for alternative options is ideal.

Pony care - What does it involve?

Grooming a pony goes beyond daily grooming. In addition to coat care, the hooves, teeth and general well-being also need to be checked regularly.

• Coat and mane care: Ponies often have a thick mane and a bushy tail that should be combed regularly.
• Hoof care: The hooves must be regularly trimmed and treated by the farrier depending on use.
• Dental care: Ponies are prone to dental problems, so an annual check-up by the vet is advisable.
• Weight control: Many ponies have a slow metabolism and put on weight easily - regular weighing helps to prevent overweight.

Typical pony diseases

Precisely because many ponies are frugal, they are prone to metabolic and weight problems if they are not kept appropriately.

Laminitis - The dangerous disease of affluence

Laminitis is one of the most common and most dangerous diseases in ponies. It is often caused by overfeeding - especially when ponies are on pastures that are too rich in nutrients. This leads to painful inflammation in the hoof corium, which in the worst case can lead to permanent damage or even lameness.

• Symptoms: Stiff gait, warm hooves, weight shifting backwards
• Causes: Overweight, too much grass, incorrect feeding, metabolic diseases
• Prevention: Adapted feeding, no excessive grazing, plenty of exercise

➡️ Video tip: The spectre of laminitis - when every step hurts!
Learn all about the causes, symptoms and dangers of this serious inflammation from experts at the Karthaus Veterinary Clinic, including the risks of lowering or rotating the coffin bone - important knowledge for horse health!

EMS (Equine Metabolic Syndrome) - When ponies get too fat

EMS is a metabolic disease that mainly affects ponies that are given too much food and too little exercise. The disease is similar to diabetes in humans and can lead to insulin resistance and laminitis. laminitis lead to laminitis.

• Symptoms: Fat deposits on mane, croup and belly, tendency to laminitis
• Causes: Overweight, little exercise, incorrect feeding
• Prevention: Weight management, adapted diet, regular exercise

➡️ Video tipEMS - The disease with the fat pads!
Learn about the risks of obesity for horses, how to keep your horse's weight healthy and what Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) is all about - including tips on weight control!

Summer eczema - itching in summer

The sweet itch is an allergic reaction to insect bites, especially from black flies. Affected ponies often scratch themselves bloody, which can lead to skin inflammation. Robust pony breeds such as Icelandic horses or Shetland ponies are particularly at risk.

• Symptoms: Severe itching, chafed mane and tail
• Causes: Allergic reaction to mosquito bites
• Prevention: Fly rugs, special eczema feed supplements, stabling during twilight hours

📖 Reading tip: Sweet itch in horses - causes, symptoms & effective measures
‍Itching, chafing and skin problems - sweet itch is a challenge for many horse owners. Find out what causes it, how to recognize the symptoms early on and what measures really help - Read now!

Hoof problems - When ponies have too little exercise

Ponies are known for their hard and resistant hooves, but problems can also occur here if they are not kept correctly. Especially with too little movement or the wrong surface, this can lead to misalignment or thrush. thrush.

• Symptoms: Crumbly or cracked hooves, unpleasant odor, lameness
• Causes: Too little exercise, too damp ground, lack of hoof care
• Prevention: Regular checks by the farrier, dry standing surfaces, sufficient exercise

📖 Reading tip : Thrush in horses - causes, detection & treatment
‍Abad smell, soft horn and black spots on the hoof? Thrush is a serious condition that can lead to lameness if left untreated. Find out how to recognize thrush early, treat it effectively and prevent it in the long term - Read now!

Dental problems - not to be underestimated

Ponies often have narrow interdental spaces, which can lead to food debris getting stuck and causing inflammation or chewing problems. Older ponies in particular suffer from dental problems, which can lead to weight loss if left untreated.

• Symptoms: Poor feed intake, weight loss, unpleasant mouth odor
• Causes: Age-related tooth wear, hook formation, inflammation in the mouth
• Prevention: Annual check-up by the equine dentist, regular adjustment of the tooth position

➡️ Video tip: Dental care for horses - prevention is key!
‍Horse teethare constantly growing - so regular check-ups are essential. Find out from Dr. Carsten Vogt how dental treatment works, what makes horse teeth so special and why dental care is essential for your horse's health - watch now!

Pony nutrition - What do ponies eat and what is taboo?

Ponies are easy to feed and need less, but high-quality feed compared to large horses. Incorrect feeding can quickly lead to overweight and diseases such as laminitis or metabolic disorders.

The basics of pony feeding

• Roughage as a basis: Ponies mainly need hay or controlled grazing.
• Little to no concentrated feed: Most ponies can manage without oats or muesli.
• Minerals and trace elements: Supplements are necessary depending on the husbandry and stress.
• Fresh water and salt: A salt lick and sufficient water should always be available.

What are ponies not allowed to eat?

• Too much fresh grass → increases the risk of laminitis
• Bread, rolls, sugar → can cause obesity and digestive problems
• Cabbage, potatoes, onions → can trigger flatulence and colic
• Moldy or dusty hay → can promote respiratory diseases

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the difference between a pony and a horse?

A pony is a horse with a maximum height of 148 cm. In addition to their size, ponies often have a more compact build, a thicker coat and a more robust build. Horses are generally taller, slimmer and have longer legs.

What is so special about ponies?

Ponies are characterized by their robustness, intelligence and resilience. They are often more frugal than large horses and have a strong build with a thick coat that protects them well from the cold. They are also considered to be particularly durable and adaptable.

What is so special about Shetland ponies?

Shetland ponies are extremely hardy and frugal. Originally from the Shetland Islands, they are adapted to harsh climatic conditions. Despite their small size, they are very strong and can pull or carry an astonishing amount in relation to their body weight.

Can adults ride Connemara ponies?

Yes, Connemara ponies are one of the stronger pony breeds and can easily carry light to medium-weight adults. They are athletic, enduring and often used in equestrian sports.

Are Connemara ponies suitable for beginners?

Yes, Connemara ponies are suitable for beginners as they are considered calm, strong-nerved and willing to learn. They are versatile and a good choice for both children and light adults.

Is a Haflinger a horse or a pony?

Haflinger horses are often right on the border between a pony and a small horse. Many Haflingers are taller than 148 cm and are therefore classified as small horses, even though they have many typical pony characteristics.

Which ponies are suitable for beginners?

Calm, good-natured ponies with strong nerves that are reliable to handle are particularly suitable for beginners . These include New Forest ponies, Welsh ponies, Haflingers, Icelandic horses and Connemara ponies.

When can you start riding ponies?

Children can sit on ponies under supervision from around 3 to 4 years of age. Independent riding makes sense from around 6 years of age if the child has sufficient body control.

Which ponies can adults wear?

Strong pony breeds such as Connemara ponies, Fjord horses, Haflinger horses and Welsh cobs are also suitable for light to medium-weight adults. The decisive factor is the rider's weight in relation to the pony's carrying capacity.

Who can ride ponies?

In principle, anyone who is physically able can ride a pony. Children, beginners and light adults will find a safe riding horse on suitable pony breeds. It is important that the pony fits the size and weight of the rider.

What are the very small ponies called?

The smallest pony breeds are the Falabella pony and the Mini Shetland pony. Falabellas often only reach a size of 70 to 85 cm, but are too small to be ridden.

Which ponies are suitable for children?

Particularly friendly and patient ponies are ideal for children. These include Shetland ponies, Welsh ponies (sections A and B), New Forest ponies and Haflingers. However, the training of the pony is also crucial.

Are Welsh ponies suitable for children?

Yes, Welsh ponies of sections A and B are particularly suitable for children. They are friendly, willing to learn and versatile.

Up to what pony height?

A pony may be a maximum of 148 cm tall. If it exceeds this height, it is officially classified as a small horse.

How do ponies behave?

Ponies are often intelligent, independent and capable of learning. They are considered curious and people-oriented, but can also have a mind of their own, which is sometimes interpreted as "stubborn".

Are Icelandic horses ponies or horses?

Although Icelandic horses are often the size of a pony (usually between 130 and 145 cm), they are officially classified as horses. This is mainly due to their strong build and their ability to carry taller riders.

How much does a pony cost?

The purchase costs for a pony vary greatly. A pony suitable for leisure generally costs between 2,000 and 10,000 euros, while well-trained sport ponies or rare breeds can be significantly more expensive.

What are ponies not allowed to eat?

Ponies should not eat bread, sugar, cabbage, potatoes or onions. Too much fresh grass can also be dangerous as it increases the risk of laminitis.

How old do ponies get?

Ponies have a long life expectancy and can live for 25 to 35 years, depending on the breed . Some ponies even reach the age of 40.

Are ponies stubborn?

Ponies are considered intelligent and independent. Some ponies like to test their limits, which is why they are often described as stubborn. However, with the right upbringing and consistent training, they are very adaptable and reliable.

Can ponies and horses be kept together?

Yes, ponies and horses can live together in a herd without any problems. It is important that the feed is adapted accordingly, as ponies often need less feed than large horses.

Where can you still find wild ponies?

Wild or semi-wild ponies can still be found in some regions of Europe today. These include the Dartmoor and Exmoor ponies in England, the Dülmen wild horses in Germany and the Konik ponies in Poland.