Breed portrait German Riding Pony - Versatile athletes

The German Riding Pony is still a very young breed, which has, however, established itself in the pony sport to a real size. They are often called "miniature warmbloods" because they combine the positive characteristics of a large horse with the typical pony traits. We introduce you to this versatile horse breed and give you an insight into the beginnings of breeding up to its use as a versatile sport and leisure horse.

Profile German Riding Pony

• ‍Breed: German Riding Pony‍
• Height at the withers: 138 to 148 cm, in international tests up to 151 cm
• Discipline: Youth riding horse. Versatile in leisure and competition sport with great disposition for dressage, jumping and eventing.
• ‍Conformation: Athletic and noble, slim and elegant. A reflection of a sporty warmblood, but with a small stature and a certain pony charm due to large, alert eyes, small ears, and wide nostrils.
• ‍Character: Kind, uncomplicated nature, easy and reliable to handle. Willing to learn and perform with a fighting spirit. Intelligent and strong nerves.
• Movement pattern: Spacious movements with little knee action. Clear beat with pronounced impulsion from the hindquarters and clear suspension phase in trot.
• ‍Colors: All colors, most frequently represented are bay, chestnut, grey and black.
• ‍Health: German riding ponies are very robust and exhibit good health and high resilience. However, there are a few hereditary diseases (myotonia, cerebellar abiotrophy) for which breeding animals must be tested before registration.

‍History and origin of the German Riding Pony

Just in the 1960s, the German Riding Pony finds its origin. At the meeting of the Working Group of Pony Breeders in Bad Harzburg in 1965, an increased demand for youth riding horses was noted. The demand for small horses that could be shown by children and young people at horse shows increased increasingly during this time. This was mainly because more and more children discovered their love of horses through television broadcasts or books.

Warmbloods were too large for junior riders and most pony breeds were not suitable for competition due to their often stocky and broad build. So the breeding goal was to produce a small, athletic horse that was capable of performance and competition, but at the same time had a gentle, friendly disposition that its under-sixteen riders could handle. A cross of the qualities of a large horse with the will to perform of a pony was needed.

One tried in the mating of, for example, Thoroughbred x Fjord Horse or Arabian x Haflinger, but unfortunately, the success of these crossings failed. Only with the import of British ponies and a real pony boom in Germany, the steering wheel of pony breeding was turned. In 1975, the breeding areas in North Rhine-Westphalia (Westphalia), Lower Saxony (Weser-Ems), Schleswig Holstein, and Hanover established themselves as the main breeding area for the German Riding Pony. They started with the local wild breeds and crossed them with British ponies, such as the Welsh Pony. The breeders oriented themselves to the British Riding Pony. Due to the high percentage of Welsh, the German Riding Pony can also be called Welsh-Partbred. However, this name is not used in Germany. The "basic breeds" were finally refined with Arabians, Anglo-Arabians, and other thoroughbreds. The result was a noble riding pony that was willing to perform.

In the 1990s, pony breeders in the major breeding areas attempted to improve performance by crossbreeding with warmblood stallions such as Trakehner, Hanoverian, or Holstein. However, they made great losses in the characteristic pony traits, so that this attempt was quickly abandoned. Instead, the focus was on crystallizing first-class sires whose talent and ability were and still are proven in stallion performance tests, first in the field and later also on the station.

With a lot of commitment on the part of the pony breeders, the new breed, the German Riding Pony, developed in less than ten years and quickly conquered the up-and-coming show sport. Today, the German Riding Pony breed can call itself the most successful and strongest breed group in German pony breeding in terms of numbers.

The most famous German Riding Ponies - FS Don't Worry and Dornik B.

Among the most famous German Riding Ponies are the two top stallions FS Don't Worry and Dornik B. They were not only extremely successful in competition sports but also had a significant influence on the breeding of Riding Ponies.

The chestnut stallion Dornik B., born in 1991, is considered the most victorious dressage pony of all time. He was able to record numerous successes at the European Championships and Bundeschampionaten. From 2010 to 1014 he stood on station and as a successful dressage sire passed on his talent to his offspring. His progeny includes 39 licensed offspring and 44 state premium mares. In 2020, Dornik B. died at the age of 29 at Bönniger Stud, where he was also born.

With the dressage stallion FS Don't Worry, the riding pony breed has a number one. FS Don't Worry can count over 80 victories in advanced dressage among his list of successes. In addition, he was a Bundessieger stallion and two-time Bundeschampion. In breeding, he held first place in the breeding value estimation for several years. His progeny lifetime earnings total €549,573 in 2022. Although FS Don't Worry is no longer used in breeding due to his age, he can look back on his successful offspring. These include Doubtless, Dow Jones, Don Alfredo, and FS Day by Day.

‍Exterior- the appearance of the German Riding Pony

It is not for nothing that the German Riding Pony is also called "Miniature Warmblood", because it looks very similar to its larger relatives. However, a German Riding Pony only reaches a height of between 1.38 and 1.48 m and weighs 380 to 450 kg.

Unlike other pony breeds, the German Riding Pony has a slender and elegant appearance, but its head exudes the characteristic pony charm: friendly, large eyes, small ears, and wide nostrils stand out on the noble-looking head. The neck is of medium length and tapers towards the head. The shoulder is large and sloping, while the back is well-muscled and allows a balanced saddle position. The croup also shows good muscling. The foundation should be dry and not spongy.

The German Riding Pony was bred for performance and character, with coat color being in the background. Due to the many crosses and the great variability in the pedigrees, all coat colors are represented. However, chestnuts, bay, black, and gray are the most common. However, palomino-colored riding ponies are particularly popular.

Movement sequence of the German Riding Pony

To excel in the arena as well as in the show jumping arena, a riding pony should have tactful, hard-working gaits with ground-covering strides and a good push from the hindquarters. The trot should have a pronounced floating phase, but only a slight knee action should be noticeable.

When jumping, the riding pony should show composure and intelligence, which is demonstrated by skill and deliberation.

Interior - the character of the German Riding Pony

The German Riding Pony was bred for children and youngsters. An uncomplicated, sweet nature for easy, reliable handling is therefore a high priority in the breeding objective. At the same time, a riding pony should be willing to learn and perform to show commitment in competition and recreational sports. Since they are bred for sporting use, they must be moved and challenged accordingly. After all, riding ponies are curious and lively - they want to be kept busy and given a task to do. Furthermore, they are particularly strong nervous, and resilient, which is why they are reliable riding horses for young riders.

Application areas - Where can you use the German Riding Pony?

The German Riding Pony is a true all-rounder that can be used in a variety of sports and leisure activities. It has received its athletic disposition from its great role model, the warmblood, which is why the riding pony is predestined for dressage and show jumping, but also for eventing. With its fighting spirit, it is ideally suited for entry into competitive sports for young riders.

Due to its strong nerves and reliable character, the German Riding Pony is also a reliable leisure partner. It carries its rider safely through the terrain, through trails or composure tests, and shows joy in groundwork. It also cuts a fine figure as a carriage pony.

Originally and mainly bred for children and youngsters under the age of 16, a riding pony can also be ridden by light adults. However, it is not a beast of burden, so meticulous attention should be paid to rider weight. How much a German Riding Pony can carry depends on its level of training and constitution. Roughly, the rule of thumb, the horse may carry a maximum of 20% of its own weight, can be used as a guide.

The German Riding Pony in Sport - Versatile Tournament Specialists

The success story of the German Riding Pony is closely linked to the development of modern pony sport. When the general interest in equestrian sports increased in the 1960s due to rising prosperity and more leisure time, the desire for a powerful competition pony suitable for children also arose - this was the birth of the German Riding Pony.

Pony sport developed early on to become a permanent fixture on the show scene, particularly in Germany and Europe, where it is still actively promoted today.

Regulations and requirements for pony sport

In Germany, the height limit for registered competition ponies is 1.48 m. For international competitions, however, a pony can be up to 1.51 m tall. The age of riders is also clearly regulated: For official international pony competitions, riders may not be older than 16 years - a criterion that goes directly back to the original breeding goal of the riding pony. In regional competitions, however, a slightly older rider is often permitted.

Disciplines and strengths of the German Riding Pony

Thanks to its noble conformation, rideability and willingness to work, the German Riding Pony has established itself in several disciplines of show jumping:

• Dressage: With clear, expressive movements and great collection ability.
• Jumping: Fast, agile and with a secure jumping ability.
• Versatility: Courageous, persistent and willing to learn in the field.

Added to this is the harmonious appearance: due to its resemblanceto a smaller warmblood, the pony looks particularly elegant and makes a harmonious impression with young riders.

Important championships for pony riders

Anyone involved in pony sport is guided by various high-ranking events. The most talented riders and ponies take center stage here - and the German Riding Pony is regularly at the forefront:

• German Youth Championships (DJM)
• European Junior Championships
• Future Champions
• Prize of the best

Alongside the DJM, the "Preis der Besten" in particular is considered the most important event for young riders in Germany. It is not only used to test performance, but also for the national coaches to get a first impression of potential candidates for international championships.

Successful all along the line

The German Riding Pony not only impresses with quantity - i.e. high participation numbers - but also with outstandingquality. In all three main disciplines of pony sport, it is regularly represented in the top places:

• Pony dressage: Elegant, reliable, with a lot of charisma.
• Pony jumping: Fast, precise, with clean technique.
• Pony eventing: confident, courageous, with strong nerves.

Many of Germany's most successful pony riders started their careers on a German Riding Pony - often winning national titles and international medals. It is not uncommon for the same ponies to compete in championships for many years and perform consistently.

Keeping and care of a riding pony

Riding ponies are very robust animals that develop a plush winter coat in winter despite their otherwise elegant appearance. Their keeping therefore looks very uncomplicated. Keeping them in a group in an open stable suits this breed best. Riding ponies are also very eager to run and need plenty of exercise. A daily run with grazing benefits riding ponies greatly in addition to exercise by humans. With good care and management, riding ponies stay healthy and can reach an average age of 20 to 25 years or older.

Breed-typical diseases of the German Riding Pony

German riding ponies are generally very robust and have been bred to be in good health. Nevertheless, their owners need to take a closer look at their feeding than owners of large horses. This is because, like all other pony breeds, German Riding Ponies have a tendency towards obesity, which is typical of the breed.

Overweight and laminitis

Like many pony breeds, the German Riding Pony also tends to become obese if it is overfed or gets too little exercise. There is a particular danger when grazingin spring: the fresh grass contains high amounts of fructan, which can lead to an oversupply of protein. The intestinal flora, adjusted to hay after the winter, reacts sensitively. If the balance in the gut is upset, certain bacteria die off and release toxins that can lead to feed-related laminitis. laminitis can lead to laminitis.

Feeding according to requirements, slow grazing and plenty of exercise are therefore essential to prevent obesity and secondary diseases such as EMS or laminitis or laminitis.

➡️ 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!

Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS)

EMS is caused by a combination of obesity and hormonal disorders in which the pony develops insulin resistance. This results in fat deposits, particularly on the mane crest and above the eyes, sluggishness and an increased risk of laminitis. EMS can be well controlled with adapted feeding, targeted training and veterinary supervision.

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

Myotonia

Myotonia is a genetic disease of the skeletal muscles caused by a genetic mutation. Typical symptoms appear as early as foal age:

• Staky, stiff gait
• Difficulty getting up
• Balance disorders
• Stiff ankle joints
• In some cases: Retracted eyeballs

The disease is inherited recessively. If a pony is bred to another carrier, there is a 25% chance that the foal will develop the disease. This is why genetic testing is mandatory - only ponies that test negative may be entered in Stallion Book I/II or Mare Book I/II.

Cerebellar abiotrophy (CA)

This hereditary disease of the cerebellum leads to the death of nerve cells, which can manifest itself in uncontrolled movements (ataxia), coordination disorders and head tremors. Foals often appear inconspicuous at birth, with the first symptoms usually appearing from the third month of life. In severe cases, signs appear immediately after birth.

Since 2019, genetic testing has been mandatory for stallions if they are to be entered in the stud book. A positive result does not rule out registration, but is used for targeted breeding control.

FAQ - German Riding Pony

How much does a German riding pony cost?

How much a German Riding Pony can cost depends on various factors such as age, pedigree, disposition, ability and any sporting successes. While a riding pony for leisure sport can cost up to around €10,000, the price range for a successful sport riding pony can be in the region of €40,000 or higher.

How tall can you be for a German Riding Pony?

There is no fixed size limit for the rider, but the ratio between rider and pony should be suitable. It is crucial that the rider does not overload the pony. The 15-20% rule is a good guide: rider plus equipment should not weigh more than 15-20% of the pony's weight.

Can adults ride a German Riding Pony?

Yes, light adults can ride a German Riding Pony, as long as they do not overload the pony. Many riding ponies have a strong foundation and sufficient carrying capacity - this is particularly useful for leisure riding or training. Nevertheless, the rider's height and weight should match the pony's stature.

How much does a good German Riding Pony cost?

The price of a well-trained German Riding Pony varies greatly. A reliable, athletically ridden pony with competition experience costs between 6,000 and 15,000 euros, sometimes considerably more - depending on age, level of training, successes and pedigree.

How long does a German Riding Pony live?

With good husbandry, balanced feeding and regular exercise, a German Riding Pony can reach an average age of 20 to 25 years, sometimes even older.

How much does a German Riding Pony cost on average?

On average, the price of a German Riding Pony is around 5,000 to 10,000 euros. Foals or young animals without training are cheaper, while sport ponies with successes can be in the upper five-figure range.

How much can a German Riding Pony carry?

The load capacity depends on the individual pony. Roughly speaking, a German Riding Pony can carry between 45 and 60 kg - including saddle. The weight, muscularity, back length and condition of the pony play a decisive role here.

Which horses are called German Riding Ponies?

German riding ponies are purpose-bred sport ponies that were originally developed as small warmbloods for children and young people. They combine the noble appearance and rideability of large horses with the compact size and robustness of a pony.

Is a German Riding Pony suitable for beginners?

Yes - many German Riding Ponies are considered friendly, docile and even-tempered, which is why they are well suited to beginners. However, it is important to choose a suitable pony with a calm character and a reliable level of training, especially for children or anxious riders.

What colors can a German Riding Pony have?

German riding ponies come in all horse colors: Chestnut, bay, black, gray, palomino, dun, Isabell or pinto - whatever you like is allowed. Color diversity is not a breeding goal, but it is not restricted either.

How many kilograms can a German Riding Pony carry?

Depending on its size and build, a German Riding Pony can usually carry 45 to 60 kilograms, including riding equipment. Athletically built riding ponies with a well-muscled back can also carry a little more weight - the decisive factor is the individual constitution.

How much space does a German Riding Pony need?

The same husbandry requirements apply for a German Riding Pony as for large horses. A paddock with an open stable or spacious stalls with daily exercise is ideal. Each animal should have at least 100-150 m² of exercise area - plus pasture.

What does a German Riding Pony look like?

Visually, the German Riding Pony is strongly reminiscent of a small warmblood: elegant head, good neck, clearly defined musculature and harmonious conformation. It looks sporty, elegant and ready to perform - with an expressive movement pattern.

Is a German Riding Pony a pony?

Yes, according to the definition, the German Riding Pony with its maximum height of 1.48 m (national) or 1.51 m (international) belongs to the pony breeds. However, it was bred with the aim of resembling large horses in miniature format - both visually and in terms of rideability.

How big does a German Riding Pony get?

The official height is 138 to 148 cm. For international competitions, the pony may be up to 151 cm tall - the decisive factor is registration as a competition pony and the respective area of use.

How heavy is a German Riding Pony?

A German Riding Pony usually weighs between 300 and 450 kilograms - depending on its size, build and level of training.