Welsh Mountain Pony (Section A)

Overview

The Welsh Mountain Pony is Section A of the Welsh Stud Book, and the original type from which the other Welsh ponies and cobs descend. The breed description calls it "hardy, spirited and pony-like". Its size, good nature and refinement have made it a favourite first pony for young riders.

History

The Welsh Mountain Pony descends from the native ponies that have lived in the Welsh uplands for thousands of years. In the 19th century, before the breed society was formed, Arabian and Thoroughbred blood was introduced.

The Welsh Pony and Cob Society was formed in 1901 and published the first volume of the Welsh Stud Book in 1902, divided into sections. At first Section A had two types: a lighter, more refined pony up to 12 hh, and a heavier, cobbier pony up to 12.2 hh that was often hogged and docked. The rules then allowed any colour. The description was later redefined. By 1960 the limit was 12 hh and piebald and skewbald were excluded. Docking and hogging are no longer allowed.

Breed standard

• Height: not exceeding 121.9 cm (12 hh).
• Colour: any colour, except piebald and skewbald.
• Head: small, clean-cut, well set on and tapering to the muzzle, with bold eyes, small pointed ears and prominent, open nostrils.
• Neck: lengthy and well carried; moderately lean in mares, inclined to be cresty in mature stallions.
• Body: back and loins muscular, strong and well coupled, deep girth, well-sprung ribs; hindquarters lengthy and fine, with the tail well set on and carried gaily.
• Limbs: forelegs set square and true, with a long, strong forearm, well-developed knee and short flat bone below it; large, flat, clean hocks; well-shaped, round feet with dense hoofs.
• Action: quick, free and straight from the shoulder, with the hocks well flexed and well under the body.

Temperament and uses

The breed society credits the Welsh Mountain Pony with a strong constitution, great intelligence and a determined nature. For the last hundred years it has mostly been used as a riding pony for the youngest riders: first lessons, Pony Club, dressage, jumping and showing. Individual ponies vary, so judge each one on its own temperament and training.

Health and management

Native ponies evolved to live on sparse grazing. Research at the Royal Veterinary College notes that ponies tend to be more insulin resistant than horses, which makes them more prone to equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). This trait is genetic, probably an adaptation to harsh environments, and on richer grazing it leads to obesity, EMS and a higher risk of laminitis. World Horse Welfare names obesity as the biggest risk factor for EMS, and says insulin testing is a valuable way to assess the risk of laminitis and EMS in native breeds. Keep an eye on weight and body condition, and ask your vet about testing.