Dales Pony Breed

From: Horse Breeds

Dales Pony
This lovely looking horse is strong and hardy with active paces and a willing temperament. The Dales makes an excellent all round riding and driving pony and has a kind nature and a brave heart making it suitable for children and adults alike.

Originates
The breed originates from the Dales to the North of the Pennine hills, England.

Height
Dales ponies are 14.2 maximum

Colour
Dales are predominantly black but can also be bay, grey and brown.

Conformation

The head is quite wide across the forehead with a generous eye and small ears and the expression is kind.
The neck is short with a muscular crest.
The shoulders are well built and sloping.
The girth is deep.
The chest has ample width.
The back is short, strong and broad.
The hindquarters are well rounded and powerful.
The limbs are well proportioned and strong and have a light feather.
The tail is fairly low set.
The mane and tail are both thick and flowing.

History
This lovely horse is descended from Friesian and also Norfolk Roadster, Welsh Cob and Clydesdale giving it its strength and active paces combined with a willing temperament. Over the years it was used in the mines and for the army as well as for general riding purposes.

Uses
As an all round riding and driving horse, the Dales is a popular choice due to its strength it can happily carry both children and adults, and is versatile in many disciplines.