Horse Breeds: Dales Pony

The ultimate English farm pony is the Dales Pony. This little horses comes from the dales of northeast England and was used to herd sheep, plow fields, and pulling carts of many sizes. They were also used in mines back in the days when horses were actually used in mines. The Dales Pony was a pack pony in the lead mines and also carried ore to the cargo ships all around England. English farmers, in an attempt to better the breed, crossed Welsh Cobs and Clydesdales with the Dales Pony, but the Clydesdale blood was considered undesirable and was eventually bred out.

The Dales Pony defies expectations when it comes to the loads it can carry. A single horse can carry 220 pounds despite its small size. It can also trot a three-minute mile and is surefooted enough to make an excellent trail pony. This horse breed is also friendly and reliable, making it a great horse for children.

The Dales Pony is what most people think of when they hear the term pony, even if they don't realize it. This pony had thick legs and hard, dark-colored hooves. The legs are feathered and the hindquarters are strong. This horse may be short but its well muscled, especially the neck. The head of the Dales Pony is fine featured with tiny ears and wide-set eyes. Standing between 14 and 14.2 hands high, this pony is generally black. Brown and grey are seen on occasion, but neither color is considered desirable.

The perfect pony, the Dales Pony is now represented throughout most of the world. Enthusiasts from The Dales Pony Society and The Dales Pony Society of America maintain the stud books for most of the horses born throughout the world.