Shetland Ponies - Pictures

Shetland Ponies - History

The breed's ancestors roamed freely on the islands until people domesticated them. The hardy horses were suited well for a number of activities due to their physical qualities. The Shetland pony's physical characteristics are the result of natural selection. The islands are characterized by a cold climate and strong winds. The barren soil does not provide succulent growth. Yet, it was sufficient enough for the Shetland pony to develop. Needless to say, harsh climate conditions have hardened the horse and provided it with the means for survival. Thus, the whole of the breed's appearance is the result of a long process of adaptation.

Shetland Ponies - Functions

At the second half of the 18th century, there was great demand for Shetland ponies. They were exported to southern parts of Great Britain and to America. Since the price of a Shetland was rather high, breeders found it lucrative to sell the horses. As the result, the population of Shetlands on the islands diminished greatly.

A craze over the Shetland pony continued well into the first decades of the 20th century. The industrial changes reduced demand for Shetlands. Therefore, it became a children's horse. However, with the appearance of the Welsh pony the population of the Shetland pony collapsed. Nowadays, the breed is re-gaining its popularity. Shetland ponies attract much attention as children's horses and show competitors.

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