Origin
Scotland
History
The breed´s origins are not known, but there was probably a connection between ponies of Tundra type and the Scandinavian stock. In the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, there would have been some eastern influence, through ponies from Celtic settlements. Later came the Vikings, who imported their own ponies.
On the islands, the ponies were employed as pack and harness animals, and could also be ridden by full-grown men. Only a few were shipped out on small sailing vessels to various European countries. But this changed in 1847 when an act of Parliament prohibited children from working in the coal mines. Previously, children had been employed for pulling coal tubs along the mine workings, many of which were too low to allow even a small child to stand upright. Almost immediately, there was a huge demand for Shetland as pit ponies, and for that reason, a heavier, coarser animal was developed alongside the existing type.
Over the years, numerous ponies have been exported all over the world. The US, Canada, and Europe have large populations, and operate their own studbooks. In North America, the breed has been crossed with the Hackney Pony to create the smart American Shetland, and with the Appaloosa to produce the Pony of the Americas. In Argentina, the Shetland was used as the base for the pygmy Falabella.
Description
- Conformation:
the breed is now consistent in type, and has excellent proportions. The mane, like the tail, is very thick, to provide protection against the weather. The shoulders are powerful, and there is a good slope to them. The quarters are well formed and run into broad loins and a short, fairly wide back - Average height:
maximum of 10.2 h.h. - Colours:
the basic coat colour is black; other common colours are brown and chestnut, and gray and pinto also occur - Temperament:
the Shetland has a naturally kind disposition. Because these ponies are "cute", some owners have had a tendency to spoil them, and the subsequent misbehaviour has given the Shetland a bad reputation for being rebellious. However, the Shetland is no more easily spoiled than any other equine breed, and if trained correctly makes a wonderful mount for a child - Today:
presently, Shetlands are extensively ridden by children and driven in harness.
