SHETLAND PONY

The Shetland Pony -- Published in Equestrian, September 2005

The Shetland Pony is a very strong creature considering its size. The average height is 9.3 hands and usually doesn’t exceed 11.2 hands. The ponies have short but muscular legs, thick coats, and substantial mains, tails and forelocks. They are also recognized by their prominent eyes and refined ears.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION

The Shetland Pony is a very strong creature considering its size. The average height is 9.3 hands and usually doesn’t exceed 11.2 hands. The ponies have short but muscular legs, thick coats, and substantial mains, tails and forelocks. They are also recognized by their prominent eyes and refined ears.

GENERAL CONFORMATION

As stated in Article 3603. General Conformation:

Shetland conformation should be that of a strong, attractive, versatile pony, blending the original Shetland type with refinement and quality resulting from American care and selective breeding. The barrel should be well rounded, back short and level, with flat croup. The head should be carried high and on a well arched neck and should be symmetrical and proportionate to the body, with width between prominent eyes; a fine jaw; short, sharp and erect ears; small muzzle, with flaring nostrils and a refined throat latch. The pony shall have a full mane and tail; coat should be fine and glossy; no discrimination should be made because of color of coat or eyes. The pony’s structure should be strong with refinement; high withers; sloping shoulders; flat boned, muscular legs (not cow or sickle hocked); strong, springy pasterns and good, strong serviceable feet.

For more information about the Shetland Pony, please contact the Breed and Western Disciplines Department of the United States Equestrian Federation:

United States Equestrian Federation, Inc
4047 Iron Works Parkway
Lexington, KY 40511
(859) 258-2472