Highland Pony

The Highland pony bears similarities to the postulated Horse Type 2 and the Asian Wild Horse, although, as a breed, it has been subjected to a number of outside influences over the years and has probably changed somewhat in appearance. During the 16th century, French ponies and Spanish horses were taken to the highlands of Scotland and during the 19th century a Hackney type, and various Fells and Dales ponies, where introduced to the breed. Over the years there has been substantial use of oriental and Arabian stock in the upgrading of the Highland.

There were originally two types of Highland - the smaller-framed pony from the Western Isles, and the larger mainland pony. Both types have mostly integrated now, however, and there is less obvious distinction. The Highland pony is another breed that has been greatly shaped by its harsh environment producing ponies of extremely tough and hardy nature, with great endurance, and tolerance to bad weather. The Highland pony was used by the Scottish crofters for anything from riding, driving, packing, and working the land, and they proved themselves to be highly versatile and biddable. They are known for their ability to cross wet land and will pass through an area they consider too deep.

The ponies were, and still are, frequently used by hunters for carrying deer and stag carcasses, which demonstrates their extreme strength in relation to size, and also their calm temperament - many horses would fiercely object to having a dead animal on their back. Now they are most commonly used for pony trekking and as family ponies, able to carry adults as well as children.

In appearance, they are strong and sturdy, but usually have attractive heads that indicate the influence of Arab blood. They should have small ears and large eyes, with wide nostrils capable of dilation. The neck should be quite long and crested, the back short and strong, the chest deep and powerful, and the quarters muscular. They usually have short legs with flat bone and broad knees. In color they vary from dun with dorsal stripe to bay, brown, chestnut, and gray. White markings should be minimal and they do not exceed 14.2 hh.

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