Dales Pony
Origin
England
History
Native to the upper dales of Tyne, Allen, Wear, Swale, and Tees, the Dales Pony stems from the Pennine pony, with infusions of Scotch Gaslloway (which carried Friesian blood), Norfolk Trotter, and Wilson pony blood. The Dales Pony provided power in the lead mines of Allendale and Alston Moor, working underground and carrying lead ore to the Tyne seaports. The ponies were also used in coal mines, on farms, and in pack trains. They were, and are, able to bear loads out of proportion to their size. The old Dales was a great trotter in harness or under saddle. During the 18th and 19th centuries, there was some influence on the Dales Pony from Clydesdales, Norfolk and Yorkshire Roadsters, and Welsh Cob, in particular that of the trotting stallion Comet.
World War II brought near destruction to the breed. By 1955 only four ponies were registered. Formation of the Dales Pony Society in 1963 led to distinct improvement in both quality and quantity.
Description
- Head:
neat, wide between the eyes with small ears - Conformation:
-rather short neck, well muscled
-rather straight shoulder
-deep and wide chest
-prominent withers
-short and sometimes hollow back
-broad and muscular loins
-wide and sloped croup
-long, muscular legs, feathered from the knee down
-very tough hoof, bluish in colour
-thick and full mane and tail - Average height:
13.2 to 14.2 h.h. - Colour:
usually black, bay, brown or grey. White markings are rare - Temperament:
the breed combines courage and stamina with a calm, willing temperament - Today:
the Dales Pony has a fast walk and the stamina and determination to go long distances, making them favorites for trekking and long rides. They are successful competitors in cross-country trials, dressage, and performance competitions. They are strong enough to carry adults easily and are best suited to competent adult and teenage riders. It is also a brilliant harness pony.
