Welsh Pony of Cob Type (Section C)

Overview

The Welsh Pony of Cob Type is Section C of the Welsh Stud Book. The breed description asks for a pony that is "strong, hardy and active, with pony character and as much substance as possible". It shares its description with the Welsh Cob, but is limited to 13.2 hh.

History

The Section C developed as a lighter, smaller counterpart of the Welsh Cob, keeping the cob's strong characteristics in a more pony-like size. It became prominent after the Second World War, when Welsh Mountain Ponies were crossed with Welsh Cobs. It became popular as a size between the slighter Section B and the often tall, stocky Welsh Cob. Its value as a dual-purpose ride-and-drive pony has been recognised more recently, and its numbers have grown as a result.

Breed standard

• Height: not exceeding 137.2 cm (13.2 hh).
• Colour: any colour, except piebald and skewbald.
• Head: full of quality and pony character; a coarse head and Roman nose are most objectionable. Eyes bold, prominent and set wide apart; ears neat and well set.
• Neck and shoulders: neck lengthy and well carried (moderately lean in mares, inclined to be cresty in mature stallions); shoulders strong but well laid back.
• Body: back and loins muscular, strong and well coupled; deep through the heart and well ribbed up. Hindquarters lengthy and strong.
• Limbs: forelegs set square, with long, strong forearms and an abundance of bone below well-developed knees; large, flat, clean hocks; dense hoofs. A moderate amount of silky feather is acceptable, but coarse, wiry hair is objectionable.
• Action: free, true and forcible, with the knee bent and the whole foreleg extended straight from the shoulder.

Temperament and uses

The breed society describes Section Cs as active, surefooted and hardy, suitable for adults and children. Like all the Welsh breeds they are natural jumpers, and they excel in harness. They suit families looking for one manageable all-rounder, and riders moving up from smaller ponies towards cobs and horses.

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.