Gotland Pony

The Gotland pony, known in Sweden as the Gotlandsruss or Skogsruss, is a small native pony from the island of Gotland in the Baltic Sea. It descends from forest and farm ponies that worked in a sparse island landscape, with a semi-feral herd still maintained at Lojsta Moor. Most stand roughly 12 to 13 hands, with a light but sturdy build, clean legs, a willing walk, and enough speed for harness racing and pony sport. Bay, black, chestnut, dun, and other plain colors occur depending on the line.

Gotland ponies are common in Sweden as children's riding ponies, driving ponies, and family farm horses, but they are capable workers rather than lawn ornaments. Their native hardiness makes them economical to keep, which also means rich pasture and grain can lead to excess weight. Regular hoof care, dental attention, and sensible turnout are important, especially for ponies used by children. Conservation-minded breeding values the traditional island type, good manners, and sound movement; prospective buyers should check registration and size rules if the pony will compete.

Colors: Amber Champagne, Bay, Bay Dun, Bay Roan, Black, Blanket Appaloosa, Blue Roan, Brown, Buckskin, Champagne, Chestnut, Classic Champagne, Cremello, Dun, Dun Roan, Fewspot Appaloosa, Flaxen Chestnut, Frame Overo, Gold Champagne, Gray, Grey, Grullo, Leopard Appaloosa, Liver Chestnut, Overo, Palomino, Perlino, Piebald, Pinto, Rabicano, Red Dun, Red Roan, Roan, Sabino, Seal Bay, Silver Dapple, Skewbald, Smoky Black, Smoky Cream, Snowcap Appaloosa, Sorrel, Splash White, Tobiano, Tovero, Varnish Roan, White