The Highland Pony is a native British pony, and is the largest of Britain’s 9 native breeds. Its pedigree dates back to the 1880s. It was once a workhorse in the Scottish mainland and islands, but today is used for trekking and general riding.The Highland Pony is one of the two native breeds of the Scottish Highlands and Islands. As a result, it has, over many centuries adapted to the variable and often severe climatic and environmental conditions of Scotland. The winter coat consists of a layer of strong badger-like hair over a soft dense undercoat, which enables this breed of pony to live out in all weathers. This coat is shed in the spring to reveal a smooth summer coat. This essential hardiness is combined with a kindly nature and even temperament.
Some say that the ancestors of the Highland lived in Scotland before the Ice Age. There are an estimated 5500 Highlands in the world today, with most in Europe. Although some are still bred for their substance and stamina, the trend is to breed for a pony more suited for riding and driving. The breed is also commonly crossed with thoroughbreds to produce good event horses. From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
