Highland pony

Overview

The Highland pony is the native pony of the Scottish Highlands. It is strong, compact and muscular, with a thick mane and a dense winter coat that protect it in harsh weather. The breed description calls it "a ride, drive and pack animal which can adapt to many equestrian disciplines".

History

Highland ponies have lived in the Highlands of Scotland for centuries. They were the traditional working ponies of the region, carrying and transporting goods and pulling carts. They were valued for coping with rugged terrain, harsh weather and sparse grazing, and were also used by the military. The Highland Pony Society was established in 1923.

Breed standard

• Height: not to exceed 14.2 hh (148 cm).
• Colours: a range of duns (mouse, yellow, grey and cream), and also grey, brown, black and bay, with occasional liver chestnuts with a silver mane and tail. Many have a dorsal eel stripe, and some have zebra markings on the legs and shoulders. Broken colours are not allowed. A small star is acceptable, but other white markings are discouraged.
• Head: well carried and alert, with a kindly eye, a broad muzzle and a deep jowl.
• Neck and shoulders: a reasonable length of neck from the wither, a good sloping shoulder and a well-placed forearm.
• Body: well balanced and compact, with plenty of room for heart and lungs and well-sprung ribs. Powerful quarters with a well-developed thigh and clean, flat hocks.
• Legs: flat, hard bone, broad knees, short cannon bones, oblique pasterns and well-shaped, broad, dark hooves. The feather is soft and silky. Ponies of the Western Isles type may have striped hooves.
• Mane and tail: natural, flowing and untrimmed, with a full tail.
• Movement: straight and free-moving, without too much knee action.

Temperament and uses

Traditionally a working pony on small farms, a pack animal and a military pony, the Highland is ridden and driven today. Its breed society describes it as adaptable to many disciplines. Individual ponies vary, so judge each one on its own merits.

Health and management

Native ponies evolved to live on sparse grazing. Research at the Royal Veterinary College notes that ponies tend to be more insulin resistant than horses, which makes them more prone to equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). This trait is genetic, probably an adaptation to harsh environments, and on richer grazing it leads to obesity, EMS and a higher risk of laminitis. World Horse Welfare names obesity as the biggest risk factor for EMS, and says insulin testing is a valuable way to assess the risk of laminitis and EMS in native breeds. Keep an eye on weight and body condition, and ask your vet about testing.

Conservation

The Rare Breeds Survival Trust lists the Highland pony as At Risk on its Watchlist.