Many young children dream of finding the right Shetland pony for sale, poring over sale listings and looking at pictures of ponies on breeders’ websites. To many people, the Shetland is simply any shaggy pony. However, this breed has a rich and varied history. It also is a versatile pony with many uses that will delight both children and adults.
Shetland ponies have a long and varied history. Their ancestors can be traced back to the Bronze Age. They are named for the Shetland Islands, a small cluster of islands off the coast of Scotland. These ponies were originally used as draft horses. Despite their small stature they could pull heavy loads so were used to pull mining carts and even plowing fields. Due to the scarce food and difficult conditions on the islands, Shetland ponies developed into hardy animal that required a minimal amount of food.
Shetlands first gained widespread popularity during the 19th century. As the Industrial Revolution swept the world, more and more coal was needed. Mining operations intensified and it became necessary to use so-called pit ponies, or ponies that pulled carts of coal and ore out from the mines. This was difficult and dangerous work. A spooky horse could upset the carts and cause serious accidents. They needed a hardy, brave equine that was small enough to fit in the mines. The Shetland pony fit that description perfectly and was widely used throughout Britain and the United States.
However, their sweet temperaments and adorable appearance soon won them many fanciers. They became popular as a children’s pony, and soon it became easy to locate a Shetland pony for sale. Breeders refined them to a degree so they could be used as fancier competitive mounts, and generations of children grew up on the backs of Shetlands. Even today, many people consider the word Shetland to be almost synonymous with the word pony.
Shetlands are a unique breed and distinct from other ponies. In spite of this, there are two distinct varieties within the breed. The original Shetland pony tends to be of heavier bone, and can have longer or shaggier hair. The American Shetland, on the other hand, tends to be more refined and more horse-like. This means that it will generally have longer legs in relation to its body as well as a slightly longer back and neck as opposed to the compact, short-legged original. Both types have their merits, but generally the more refined ponies are popular choices for adult show driving classes. Young riders tend to still like the hardy and shaggy original type.
Shetland ponies are one of the most popular and well-known breeds of ponies in the world. From their humble roots as draft animals to their modern popularity in the show ring, they have always served their owners well. Their intelligence and spunky personalities win people over all over the world. If you are searching for the right Shetland pony for sale, you will be sure to find a life-long companion.