The Shetland pony is a small, hardy breed originating from the Shetland Islands of Scotland. Despite standing at just 28–42 inches, they are extraordinarily strong for their size and have incredible stamina. Famous as children's riding ponies and in leadrein classes, they also have a reputation for formidable personalities — strong-willed and sometimes outwitting their handlers.
My Shetland pony has been champion at our regional breed show three years running. Presented properly — gleaming coat, perfectly pulled mane, correct conformation assessed — he is a spectacular example of the breed. In-hand Shetland showing is a wonderful discipline that showcases the breed's compac…
Read full review →Shetland ponies are remarkable animals but they will absolutely take advantage of soft or inconsistent handling. My pony tested every boundary in his first year — barging, nibbling, refusing, gate-crashing. Firm, consistent, fair handling sorted all of it and he's now a genuinely good pony. But anyo…
Read full review →Shetland ponies are highly prone to laminitis and diet management is non-negotiable. My pony must have restricted grazing (strip grazing in spring and summer), no hard feed, and regular farrier visits. When managed correctly he's been sound and healthy for 15 years. One owner before me let him overg…
Read full review →Shetland ponies have more personality per inch than any animal I've ever encountered. My pony Hamish has distinct opinions about his breakfast timing, his preferred company, and whether today is a day he feels like cooperating. He's outwitted every field gate we've had and taught himself to open the…
Read full review →Our Shetland pony Haggis has been with us for seven years and has taught three of my children to ride. He's been patient with wobbling beginners, enthusiastic in leadrein classes, and utterly safe in the most testing situations. He does have a massive personality and has perfected the art of looking…
Read full review →My Shetland pony is 30 years old this year. He has taught four generations of my family to ride. He's been on holiday with us in a borrowed field, appeared in a school nativity play, and been the subject of approximately one thousand children's drawings. He costs almost nothing to keep and remains s…
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