DARTMOORE PONY

One of nine pony breeds native to Great Britain. The Dartmoor descends from the earliest horses in Britain and is native to southwest England where the River Dart flows along the Dartmoor Forest. The Dartmoor is a small pony. To be recognized for official registration, it must stand no higher than 127 cm (50 in, or 12.5 hands) at the sides of the ridge between the shoulder blades. The body is well rounded, and the delicate-looking legs are strong. The shoulders are substantial. The small head is held high, and has a refined look. The eyes are alert, and the pointed ears are small. The coat of the Dartmoor usually is colored bay (reddish), brown, or black. During the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century, Shetland ponies were crossed with the free-ranging Dartmoors to produce ponies for work in underground coal mines. This practice almost destroyed the Dartmoor as a breed, but a registry was established in 1899 and standards were set to maintain its heritage. The breed was improved by crossing it with Fell and horses and the Welsh mountain pony. During World War II (1939-1945), the Dartmoor region was used for military training, and the breed again declined in numbers. This pony now is maintained at various breeding stables throughout Great Britain. The Dartmoor makes an elegant riding pony, and is both surefooted and a good jumper.

Darmoore Pony - Exmoor Pony - Fjord -Hackney - Highland Pony - Icelandic Pony

Barb (HORSE) - Bashkir Welsh Mountain Pony