Riding Pony

A riding pony is a pony used under saddle, and in many registries the term also points to a refined show pony type developed for young riders. The British Riding Pony is the best-known example, shaped from native pony mares, especially Welsh and Dartmoor influence, with Thoroughbred and Arabian blood added for quality, movement, and outline. These ponies are usually refined, small-headed, and athletic, with height classes set by the show or registry. They differ from rougher native working ponies by their saddle-horse look and polished way of going.

Riding ponies are kept for showing, Pony Club, dressage, jumping, lead-rein classes, and general family riding. Their smaller size does not remove the need for educated handling; many are clever, forward, and sensitive to a child's balance. Good management includes a correctly fitted saddle, regular dental and hoof care, and careful control of pasture because ponies can gain weight quickly and be prone to laminitis. When buying or breeding, temperament and suitability for the intended rider matter as much as movement or show-ring presence.

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