Welsh Pony and Cob: Difference between revisions
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{{Short description|Breed of horse}} |
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{{Infobox horse breed |
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{{Infobox horse |
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| name= Welsh Pony |
| name= Welsh Pony |
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| image= Welshb shangri-la.JPG |
| image= Welshb shangri-la.JPG |
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| image_caption= Welsh Pony (Section B) |
| image_caption= Welsh Pony (Section B) |
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| image2 = File:Welsh Mountain Ponies.jpg |
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| altname= {{ubl|Welsh Mountain Pony|Welsh Pony of Cob Type|Welsh Cob}} |
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| country= Wales |
| country= Wales |
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| features = Hardy, sure-footed, intelligent. Refined with clean bone, with substance, stamina and soundness. |
| features = Hardy, sure-footed, intelligent. Refined with clean bone, with substance, stamina and soundness. |
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| std2=http://www.wpcs.uk.com |
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The '''Welsh Pony and Cob''' |
The '''Welsh Pony and Cob''' is a group of four closely{{hyphen}}related [[horse breed]]s including both [[pony]] and [[cob (horse)|cob]] types, which originated in [[Wales]]. The four sections within the [[breed registry|breed society]] for the Welsh breeds are primarily distinguished by height, and also by variations in type: the smallest '''Welsh Mountain Pony''' ('''Section A'''); the slightly taller but refined '''Welsh Pony of riding type''' ('''Section B''') popular as a children's [[show horse|show mount]]; the small but stocky '''Welsh Pony of Cob Type''' ('''Section C'''), popular for riding and [[competitive driving]]; and the tallest, the '''Welsh Cob''' ('''Section D'''), which can be ridden by adults. Welsh ponies and cobs in all sections are known for their good temperament, hardiness, and free-moving [[Horse gaits|gaits]]. |
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Native ponies existed in Wales before 1600 BC, and a Welsh-type cob was known as early as the [[Middle Ages]]. They were influenced by the [[Arabian horse]], and possibly also by the [[Thoroughbred]] and the [[Hackney (horse)|Hackney horse]]. In 1901, the first stud book for the Welsh breeds was established in the United Kingdom, and in 1907 another registry was established in the United States. Interest in the breed declined during the [[Great Depression]], but revived in the 1950s.Throughout their history, the Welsh breeds have had many uses, including as a [[cavalry]] horse, a [[pit pony]], and as a [[working animal]] on farms. |
Native ponies existed in Wales before 1600 BC, and a Welsh-type cob was known as early as the [[Middle Ages]]. They were influenced by the [[Arabian horse]], and possibly also by the [[Thoroughbred]] and the [[Hackney (horse)|Hackney horse]]. In 1901, the first stud book for the Welsh breeds was established in the United Kingdom, and in 1907 another registry was established in the [[United States]]. Interest in the breed declined during the [[Great Depression]], but revived in the 1950s. Throughout their history, the Welsh breeds have had many uses, including as a [[cavalry]] horse, a [[pit pony]], and as a [[working animal]] on farms. |
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Today, the modern Welsh Pony and Cob breeds are used for many [[Equestrianism|equestrian]] competitive disciplines, including [[horse show|showing]], jumping and [[driving (horse)|driving]], as well as for [[pleasure riding]], [[trail riding|trekking and trail riding]]. The smaller types are popular children's ponies. The Welsh also crosses well with many other breeds and has influenced the development of many British and American [[horse breed|horse and pony breeds]]. |
Today, the modern Welsh Pony and Cob breeds are used for many [[Equestrianism|equestrian]] competitive disciplines, including [[horse show|showing]], [[Jumping (horse)|jumping]], and [[driving (horse)|driving]], as well as for [[pleasure riding]], [[trail riding|trekking and trail riding]]. The smaller types are popular children's ponies. The Welsh also crosses well with many other breeds and has influenced the development of many British and American [[horse breed|horse and pony breeds]]. |
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== History == |
== History == |
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[[File:Welsh wild pony.JPG| |
[[File:Welsh wild pony.JPG|thumbnail|Traditional native Welsh-type pony in a natural setting; such ponies have lived in Wales for centuries]] |
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Evidence suggests that a native pony existed in Wales before 1600 BC.<ref name=IMH>{{cite web|url=http://www.imh.org/exhibits/online/welsh-ponies-and-cobs|title=Welsh Ponies and Cobs|publisher=International Museum of the Horse|work=Horse Breeds of the World|accessdate=13 March 2016}}</ref> The original Welsh Mountain Pony is thought to have evolved from this prehistoric Celtic pony. Welsh ponies were primarily developed in [[Wales]] and their ancestors existed in the [[British Isles]] prior to the arrival of the [[Roman Empire]].<ref name=Evans61>Evans, p. 61</ref> Bands of ponies roamed in a [[semi-feral]] state, climbing mountains, leaping ravines, and running over rough [[moorland]] terrain. |
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Evidence suggests that a native pony existed in Wales before 1600 BC.<ref name=IMH>{{cite web|url=http://www.imh.org/exhibits/online/welsh-ponies-and-cobs|title=Welsh Ponies and Cobs|publisher=International Museum of the Horse|work=Horse Breeds of the World|access-date=13 March 2016}}</ref> The original Welsh Mountain Pony is thought to have evolved from this prehistoric Celtic pony. Welsh ponies were primarily developed in [[Wales]], and their ancestors existed in the [[British Isles]] prior to the arrival of the [[Roman Empire]].{{r|evans}} Bands of ponies roamed in a [[semi-feral]] state, climbing mountains, leaping ravines, and running over rough [[moorland]] terrain. |
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They developed into a hardy breed due to the harsh climate, limited shelter and sparse food sources of their native country. At some point in their development, the Welsh breeds had some [[Arabian horse|Arabian]] blood added, although this did not take away the physical characteristics that make the breed unique.<ref name=OSU>{{cite web|url=http://www.ansi.okstate.edu/breeds/horses/welsh/|title=Welsh Pony and Cob|accessdate=2009-07-01|work=Breeds of Livestock|publisher=Oklahoma State University}}</ref> |
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They developed into a hardy breed due to the harsh climate, limited shelter, and sparse food sources of their native country. At some point in their development, the Welsh breeds had some [[Arabian horse|Arab]] blood added, although this did not take away the physical characteristics that make the breed unique.<ref name=OSU>{{cite web|url=http://www.ansi.okstate.edu/breeds/horses/welsh/|title=Welsh Pony and Cob|access-date=1 July 2009|work=Breeds of Livestock|publisher=Oklahoma State University}}</ref> |
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The Welsh Cob existed as a type as early as the [[Middle Ages]], and mentions of such animals can be found in medieval Welsh literature. During this time they were known for their speed, jumping ability and carrying capacity. Before the introduction of large, "coldblood" [[draft horse]] breeds, they were used for farm work and [[logging|timbering]]. In 1485 the [[Militia#United Kingdom|Welsh Militia]], riding local animals presumed to be ancestors of the modern Welsh Cob, assisted [[Henry VII of England|Henry Tudor]] in gaining the English throne.<ref name=OSU/> During the 15th century, similar small horses were also used as [[rouncey]]s, leading war horses known as [[destrier]]s.<ref name=IMH/> |
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The Welsh Cob existed as a type as early as the [[Middle Ages]], and mentions of such animals can be found in medieval Welsh literature. During this time, they were known for their speed, jumping ability, and carrying capacity. Before the introduction of large, "coldblood" [[draught horse]] breeds, they were used for farm work and [[logging|timbering]]. In 1485 the [[Militia#United Kingdom|Welsh Militia]], riding local animals presumed to be ancestors of the modern Welsh Cob, assisted [[Henry VII of England|Henry Tudor]] in gaining the English throne.<ref name=OSU/> During the 15th century, similar small horses were also used as [[rouncey]]s, leading war horses known as [[destrier]]s.<ref name=IMH/> |
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The characteristics of the breeds as they are known today are thought to have been established by the late 15th century, after the [[Crusades|Crusader]]s returned to England with [[Arabian horse|Arabian]] stallions obtained from the Middle East.<ref name=IMH/> In the 16th century, King [[Henry VIII of England|Henry VIII]], thinking to improve the breeds of horses, particularly [[Horses in warfare|war horses]], ordered the destruction of all stallions under 15 [[hand (unit)|hands]] and all mares under 13 hands in the [[Breed of Horses Act 1535]]. The laws for swingeing culls of 'under-height' horses were partially repealed by a decree by Queen Elizabeth I in 1566 on the basis that the poor lands could not support the weight of the horses desired by Henry VIII because of "their rottenness ... [they] are not able to breed beare and bring forth such great breeds of stoned horses as by the statute of 32 Henry VIII is expressed, without peril of miring and perishing of them", and (fortunately for the future of Britain's [[mountain and moorland pony breeds]]) many ponies in their native environments, including the Welsh breeds, therefore escaped the slaughter.<ref>{{citation |
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|title=Safety in the Wilderness |
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|author= |
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|date=May 2004 |
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|publisher=The Fell Pony Museum |
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| accessdate = 2011-03-22 |
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| url = http://www.fellpony.f9.co.uk/fells/15_16C/crumhoss.htm |
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}}</ref> |
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The characteristics of the breed as known today are thought to have been established by the late 15th century, after the [[Crusades|Crusader]]s returned to England, with Arab stallions from the [[Middle East]].<ref name=IMH/> In the 16th century, King [[Henry VIII of England|Henry VIII]], thinking to improve the breeds of horses, particularly [[Horses in warfare|war horses]], ordered the destruction of all stallions under {{hands|15}} and all mares under {{hands|13}} in the [[Breed of Horses Act 1535]]. The laws for swingeing culls of 'under-height' horses were partially repealed by a decree by [[Elizabeth I of England|Queen Elizabeth I]] in 1566 on the basis that the poor lands could not support the weight of the horses desired by Henry VIII because of "their rottenness ... [they] are not able to breed beare and bring forth such great breeds of stoned horses as by the statute of 32 Henry VIII is expressed, without peril of miring and perishing of them", and (fortunately for the future of Britain's [[mountain and moorland pony breeds]]) many ponies in their native environments, including the Welsh breeds, therefore escaped the slaughter.<ref>{{cite web |title=Safety in the Wilderness |date=May 2004 |publisher=The Fell Pony Museum |access-date=29 June 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120320232521/http://www.fellpony.f9.co.uk/fells/15_16C/crumhoss.htm |url=http://www.fellpony.f9.co.uk/fells/15_16C/crumhoss.htm |archive-date=20 March 2012}}</ref> |
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On the upland farms of Wales, Welsh ponies and cobs would often have to do everything from [[plough]]ing a field to carrying a farmer to market or driving a family to services on Sunday. When coal mining became important to the economy of England, many Welsh ponies were [[horse harness|harnessed]] for use in mines, above and below ground.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.welshpony.org/welshoverview.php|title=Welsh Pony & Cob Society|publisher=|accessdate=10 March 2016}}</ref> |
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On the upland farms of Wales, Welsh ponies and cobs would often have to do everything from [[plough]]ing a field to carrying a farmer to market or driving a family to services on Sunday. When coal mining became important to the economy of the British Isles, many Welsh ponies were [[horse harness|harnessed]] for use in mines, above and below ground.<ref name=Society>{{cite web|url= https://wpcsa.org/start/about-our-breed/|title=Welsh Pony & Cob Society|access-date=27 June 2017}}</ref> |
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In the 18th century and 19th century, more Arabian blood was added by stallions who were turned out in the Welsh hills. Other breeds have also been added, including the [[Thoroughbred]], [[Hackney (horse)|Hackney]],<ref name=IMH/> [[Norfolk Roadster]], and the [[Yorkshire Coach Horse]].<ref name=Standard>{{cite web|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=xXzqDezPk7MC&pg=PA546&lpg=PA546&dq=Yorkshire+Coach+Horse+influence+in+Welsh+Ponies&source=bl&ots=NSaul8HEHk&sig=CUCaS1sNjcRhN1sastxbQjh90Vc&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjjt473qbfLAhXB6CYKHU6zDlcQ6AEIFTAE|title=The Official Horse Breeds Standards Guide|publisher=|accessdate=11 March 2016}}</ref> Before the car was developed, the speediest mode of transportation in Wales was the Welsh Cob. Tradesmen, doctors and other businessmen often selected ponies by [[Horse gait|trotting]] them the 35 uphill miles from [[Cardiff]] to [[Dowlais]]. The best ponies could complete this feat in under three hours, never breaking gait. Formal breeding stock licensing was introduced in 1918, but before this, breeding stock was selected by such trotting tests.<ref name=OSU/> |
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[[File:WelshPonySectionA.jpg|thumb|left|Section A Welsh Mountain pony]] |
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In 1901 English and Welsh breeders established a [[breed registry]], called the Welsh Pony and Cob Society, and the first stud book was published in 1902. It was decided that the Welsh Stud Book should be separated into sections divided by type and height. Welsh Ponies were originally only classified as Section A, but in 1931, with the rising demand for riding ponies for children, Section B was added. In the first stud books, the Section B was the Welsh Pony of Cob Type, and the Welsh Cob was Section C and Section D. The upper height limit for Section D Cobs was removed in 1907 and in 1931 Sections C and D were combined as simply Section C. The current standards of Cobs as Sections C and D were finalised in 1949. Until the mid 20th century, the [[British War Office]] considered the Welsh Cob so valuable that they paid premiums to the best [[stallion]]s. After [[World War II]], only three stallions were registered with Section C, but numbers have since recovered.<ref name=IMH/> |
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In the 18th century and 19th century, more Arab blood was added by stallions who were turned out in the Welsh hills. Other breeds have also been added, including the [[Thoroughbred]], [[Hackney (horse)|Hackney]],<ref name=IMH/> [[Norfolk Roadster]], and the [[Yorkshire Coach Horse]].<ref name=Standard/> Before the car was developed, the quickest mode of transport in Wales was the Welsh Cob. Tradesmen, doctors, and other businessmen often selected ponies by [[Horse gait|trotting]] them the 35 uphill miles from [[Cardiff]] to [[Dowlais]]. The best ponies could complete this feat in under three hours, never breaking gait. Formal breeding stock licensing was introduced in 1918, but before this, breeding stock was selected by such trotting tests.<ref name=OSU/> |
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Welsh ponies adapted easily to the terrain and climate variations they encountered when exported to Canada and the United States. They were first exported to the United States as early as the 1880s, and large numbers of animals were exported between 1884 and 1910.<ref name=OSU/> The United States registry, also named the Welsh Pony and Cob Society, was incorporated in 1906.,<ref name=Evans61/> and by 1913 a total of 574 ponies had been registered.<ref name=OSU/> During the [[Great Depression]], interest in the breed declined, but made a comeback in the 1950s.<ref name=OneBreed>{{cite web|url=http://www.welshpony.org/Onebreed.html|title=OneBreed-Four Sections|publisher=Welsh Pony & Cob Society of America|accessdate=2009-07-05}}</ref> The population continued to grow, 2,881 ponies had been registered by the end of 1957, and annual studbooks began to be published.<ref name=IMH/> All Welsh ponies and cobs in the United States today descend from ponies registered with the UK registry, and over 34,000 have been registered with the US registry as of 2009.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=United States Equestrian Federation|accessdate=2009-07-01|title=Origins|url=http://www.usef.org/Contentpage2.aspx?id=welsh}}</ref> |
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[[File:Herds and flocks and horses (1911) (14590000600).jpg|thumb|Welsh pony, 1911]] |
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In the breeds' native Wales, a life-sized statue of a Welsh Cob stallion, created by sculptor David Mayer, was erected in the town of [[Aberaeron]] in 2005. It was donated to the town by the Aberaeron Festival of Welsh Ponies and Cobs to denote the area as Welsh Cob country. |
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In 1901 English and Welsh breeders established a [[breeders' association]], the Welsh Pony and Cob Society, and the first [[stud book]] was published in 1902. It was decided that the Welsh Stud Book should be separated into sections divided by type and height. Welsh Ponies were originally only classified as Section A, but in 1931, with the rising demand for riding ponies for children, Section B was added. In the first stud books, the Section B was the Welsh Pony of Cob Type, and the Welsh Cob was Section C and Section D. The upper height limit for Section D Cobs was removed in 1907 and in 1931 Sections C and D were combined as simply Section C. The current standards of Cobs as Sections C and D were finalised in 1949. Until the mid 20th century, the [[British War Office]] considered the Welsh Cob so valuable that they paid premiums to the best [[stallion]]s. After [[World War II]], only three stallions were registered in Section C, but numbers have since recovered.<ref name=IMH/> |
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A small semi-[[feral]] population of about |
A small semi-[[feral]] population of about 120 animals still roams the [[Carneddau]] mountains in [[Snowdonia]], Wales.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/wild-carneddau-ponies-conwy-health-6290882|title=Ponies get Checkup|work=North Wales Daily Post|date=11 November 2013|access-date=10 March 2016}}</ref> |
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Welsh ponies were first exported to the United States in the 1880s, and large numbers were exported between 1884 and 1910.<ref name=OSU/> They adapted easily to the terrain and climate variations they encountered in [[Canada]] and the United States. An American association, also named the Welsh Pony and Cob Society, formed in 1906,{{r|evans}} and by 1913 a total of 574 ponies had been registered.<ref name=OSU/> During the [[Great Depression]], interest in the breed declined, but made a comeback in the 1950s.<ref name=OneBreed>{{cite web|url= https://wpcsa.org/start/about-our-breed/|title=OneBreed-Four Sections|publisher=Welsh Pony & Cob Society of America|access-date=5 July 2009}}</ref> The population continued to grow: in 1957, when annual studbooks began to be published, 2881 ponies had been registered; by 2009, the number was more than 34,000.<ref name=IMH/> All Welsh ponies and cobs in the United States descend from ponies registered in the UK stud-book.<ref name=Standard>{{cite book|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=xXzqDezPk7MC&q=all+welsh+ponies+in+the+United+States+are+descended+from+original+imports&pg=PA544|title=The Official Horse Breeds Standards Guide|author=Lynhaugh, Fran|date=2 October 2009|page=544|publisher=Voyageur Press|isbn= 978-0760334997}}</ref> |
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===Foundation lines=== |
===Foundation lines=== |
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The stallion Dyoll Starlight was credited with being the foundation sire of the modern breed, and was a combination of Welsh and Arab breeding. From his line came an influential stallion of the Section B type: Tan-y-Bwlch Berwyn. This stallion was sired by a [[Barb (horse)|Barb]] and out of a mare from the Dyoll Starlight line. Influential stallions on the Section C and D bloodlines include: |
The stallion Dyoll Starlight was credited with being the foundation sire of the modern breed, and was a combination of Welsh and Arab breeding. From his line came an influential stallion of the Section B type: Tan-y-Bwlch Berwyn. This stallion was sired by a [[Barb (horse)|Barb]] and out of a mare from the Dyoll Starlight line. Influential stallions on the Section C and D bloodlines include: Trotting Comet, foaled in 1840 from a long line of trotting horses; True Briton, foaled in 1930, by a trotting sire and out of an Arab mare; Cymro Llwyd, foaled in 1850, by an Arab stallion and out of a trotting mare; and Alonzo the Brave, foaled in 1866, tracing his ancestry through the [[Hackney (horse)|Hackney]] breed to the [[Darley Arabian]].<ref name=IMH/> |
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===Influence=== |
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The Welsh crosses well with many other breeds, and has influenced the [[Pony of the Americas]] and the British [[Riding Pony]]. Many are also [[crossbreeding|cross-bred]] with [[Thoroughbred]]s, and other [[list of horse breeds|horse breeds]]. The Welsh Pony has contributed to the founding of several other horse and pony breeds. The [[Morgan horse]] is one such breed, being in part descended from Welsh Cobs left behind by British forces after the end of the [[American Revolutionary War]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.morganmuseum.org/html/figure.html|title=The life and times of Figure|work=The Morgan Horse Museum|access-date=11 March 2016}}</ref><!--verified this via the Morgan horse museum, but doesn't say for sure--> They are crossed with Arab horses to produce riding horses, and with [[Thoroughbred]]s to produce [[show jumping|jumpers]], hunters, and [[Eventing|eventers]]. Welsh mares have also been used to breed [[polo|polo ponies]] that were agile and nimble.<ref name=OSU/> The Welsh Pony was used to create the [[Welara]], a cross-breed of the Welsh and the Arab horse, which has been registered in America as a separate breed since 1981.<ref>{{cite web|title=Welara|publisher=Oklahoma State University|work=Breeds of Livestock|access-date=5 July 2009|url=http://www.ansi.okstate.edu/breeds/horses/welara/}}</ref> |
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== Characteristics == |
== Characteristics == |
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[[File:Poney welsh.jpg|thumb|A Welsh pony, showing standard type desired in most |
[[File:Poney welsh.jpg|thumb|A Welsh pony, showing standard type desired in most sections]] |
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All sections of Welsh ponies and Cobs have small heads with large eyes, sloped shoulders, short backs and strong hindquarters. The forelegs are straight and the cannon bone short. The tail is high-set. The breed ranges from {{hands|11}} for the smallest ponies to over {{hands|16}} for the tallest Cobs.<ref name=Article>{{cite journal|title=Welsh Ponies and Cobs|url=http://www.usef.org/_staffIframes/pressbox/images/magazine/pdf/2219f7b588d6dae1298755242b939d20.pdf|journal=Equestrian|date=September 2005| |
All sections of Welsh ponies and Cobs have small heads with large eyes, sloped shoulders, short backs and strong hindquarters. The forelegs are straight and the cannon bone short. The tail is high-set. The breed ranges from {{hands|11}} for the smallest ponies to over {{hands|16}} for the tallest Cobs.<ref name=Article>{{cite journal|title=Welsh Ponies and Cobs|url=http://www.usef.org/_staffIframes/pressbox/images/magazine/pdf/2219f7b588d6dae1298755242b939d20.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160310155240/https://www.usef.org/_staffIframes/pressbox/images/magazine/pdf/2219f7b588d6dae1298755242b939d20.pdf| journal=Equestrian|date=September 2005|archive-date=10 March 2016|access-date=28 June 2017|author=Stover, Martha|pages=92–94}}</ref> They may be any solid [[equine coat color|colour]], but not tobiano or [[leopard complex|leopard-spotted]].{{r|evans}} [[Black (horse)|Black]], [[Gray (horse)|grey]], [[chestnut (coat)|chestnut]] and [[bay (horse)|bay]] are the most common, but there are also buckskins and [[palomino]]s.<ref name=OSU/> as well as smoky blacks and double creams. However, British equine colour terminology commonly refers to the [[Buckskin (horse)|buckskin]] colour, which is caused by the same cream dilution gene that produces palomino, as "[[dun gene|dun]]", but the true dun gene is extremely rare in the Welsh breed due to it being bred out of most lines.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wpcs.com.au/formsinfo/pony-registrations/acceptable-colours-markings|title=The Welsh Pony & Cob Society of Australia Inc - The Breed For All The Family|access-date=11 March 2016}}</ref> |
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Their [[horse gait|movement]] is bold, free and characteristically fast, especially at the trot, with great power coming from the hocks.<ref name=OSU/> Their trot has been |
Their [[horse gait|movement]] is bold, free and characteristically fast, especially at the trot, with great power coming from the hocks.<ref name=OSU/> Their trot has been favourably compared to that of the [[Standardbred]] horse.<ref>{{cite encyclopedia|title=Welsh Pony|encyclopedia=The Columbia Encyclopedia|edition=6th|year=2000|page=40785}}</ref> They are reputed to be trustworthy, of a good disposition with even temperaments and friendly characters, but spirited and with great endurance,<ref name=OSU/> and are known for their stamina, soundness, and high level of intelligence.<ref name=Article/> |
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== |
== Sections == |
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<!-- there were once four separate articles on the sections, which I merged, still think it wise to keep them. Those who care REALLY care--> |
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=== Section A === |
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{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="width: 100%; clear: right;" |
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|- |
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! scope="col" | Section |
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! scope="col" | Description |
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! scope="col" | Image |
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|- |
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! scope="row" | '''Welsh Mountain Pony (Section A)''' |
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| The '''Welsh Mountain Pony (Section A)''' is the smallest of the Welsh breeds. Both the Section A and Section B ponies are more refined than those in Section C and D. They are characterised from the cob types by a large eye, small head (often with a dished face from the Arabian influence), high set on tail, and refined [[horse conformation|leg conformation]], but retaining good bone and correctness.<ref name=WPCSASecA/><ref name=WPCSSecA/> |
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{{multiple image|perrow=1 |total_width=200 |image_style=border:none; |
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The Welsh Mountain Pony (Section A) may not exceed {{hands|12.2}} in the US<ref name=WPCSASecA>[http://www.welshpony.org/SectionA.htm Welsh Pony and Coby Society of America: Section A] accessed on 14 September 2007</ref> or {{hands|12}} in the United Kingdom.<ref name=WPCSSecA>[http://www.wpcs.uk.com/ponies/sectionab.html Welsh Pony and Cob Society of the United Kingdom: Section] accessed on 14 September 2007</ref> |
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|header = Section A |
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| [[File:Welsh-A-Buggy.jpg|150px]] |
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|image1 = WelshPonySectionA.jpg |
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|image2 = Welsh-A-Buggy.jpg |
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! scope="row" | '''Welsh Pony of Riding Type (Section B)''' |
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|footer = |
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| The '''Welsh Pony of Riding Type (Section B)''' is the second division within the Welsh pony registry.<ref name=WPCSSecA/><ref name=WPCSASecB>[http://www.welshpony.org/SectionB.htm Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America: Section B] accessed on 14 September 2007</ref> The Section B Welsh Pony is a larger, riding-type pony, which combines the hardiness and substance of the Section A with elegant movement and athletic ability.<ref name=USEF/> |
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}} |
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The '''Welsh Mountain Pony (Section A)''' is the smallest of the Welsh breeds. Both the Section A and Section B ponies are more refined than those in Section C and D. They are characterised by a large eye, small head (often with a dished face from the Arabian influence), high set on tail, and refined [[horse conformation|leg conformation]], but retaining good bone and correctness.<ref name=WPCSASecA/><ref name=WPCSSecA/> |
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The Welsh Mountain Pony (Section A) may not exceed {{hands|12.2}} in the US<ref name=WPCSASecA>[http://www.welshpony.org/SectionA.htm Welsh Pony and Coby Society of America: Section A] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080110113807/http://www.welshpony.org/SectionA.htm |date=10 January 2008 }} accessed on 14 September 2007</ref> or {{hands|12}} in the United Kingdom.<ref name=WPCSSecA>{{cite web|title=Section A & B|url=http://wpcs.uk.com/breed_information/section_a_b/|website=Welsh Pony and Cob Society|access-date=28 June 2017}}</ref> |
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{{clear}} |
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=== Section B === |
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The '''Welsh Pony of Riding Type (Section B)''' is the second division within the Welsh pony registry.<ref name=WPCSSecA/><ref name=WPCSASecB>[http://www.welshpony.org/SectionB.htm Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America: Section B] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080314095535/http://www.welshpony.org/SectionB.htm |date=14 March 2008 }} accessed on 14 September 2007</ref> The Section B Welsh Pony is a larger, riding-type pony, which combines the hardiness and substance of the Section A with elegant movement and athletic ability.<ref name=USEF>{{cite web|publisher=United States Equestrian Federation|access-date=29 June 2017|title=Welsh Pony and Cob Division|url=https://www.usef.org/forms-pubs/6hCj0gG-LGI/wl-welsh-pony-cob-division}}</ref> |
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Section B ponies are taller than Section A with a maximum height of {{hands|13.2}} in the UK and {{hands|14.2}} in the US. They are known for elegant movement and athletic ability while still retaining the substance and hardiness of the foundation stock, the Section A Welsh Mountain pony.<ref name=WPCSSecA/><ref name=WPCSASecB/> They have no lower height limit.<ref name=USEF/> |
Section B ponies are taller than Section A with a maximum height of {{hands|13.2}} in the UK and {{hands|14.2}} in the US. They are known for elegant movement and athletic ability while still retaining the substance and hardiness of the foundation stock, the Section A Welsh Mountain pony.<ref name=WPCSSecA/><ref name=WPCSASecB/> They have no lower height limit.<ref name=USEF/> |
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Section B ponies also generally have a slightly lighter build, as a result of [[Thoroughbred]] and [[Hackney (horse)|Hackney]] blood. Section B ponies resemble the Section A pony, but are of a more refined "riding type". However, they should not be light of bone; they should resemble their Mountain Pony ancestors for quality of bone. In addition to the desirable characteristics of the Section A pony, Section B ponies have a free-flowing movement. They should have a muscular neck, arching from withers to poll, and have a deep, wide chest. Section B ponies are more commonly used as children's ponies and as pony [[hunter-jumper]]s.<ref>{{cite |
Section B ponies also generally have a slightly lighter build, as a result of [[Thoroughbred]] and [[Hackney (horse)|Hackney]] blood. Section B ponies resemble the Section A pony, but are of a more refined "riding type". However, they should not be light of bone; they should resemble their Mountain Pony ancestors for quality of bone. In addition to the desirable characteristics of the Section A pony, Section B ponies have a free-flowing movement. They should have a muscular neck, arching from withers to poll, and have a deep, wide chest. Section B ponies are more commonly used as children's ponies and as pony [[hunter-jumper]]s.<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=5sN2T1XdbNkC&q=welsh+pony+jumping&pg=PA100|title=Horse Sense|isbn=9780643065987|access-date=10 March 2016|last1=Huntington|first1=Peter|last2=Myers|first2=Jane|last3=Owens|first3=Elizabeth|year=2004|publisher=Landlinks Press }}</ref> <!--Probably USEF or WPCSA was where I originally got this)--> |
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| [[File:WelshPonySectonB.jpg|150px]] |
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! scope="row" | '''Welsh Pony of Cob Type (Section C)''' |
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|The '''Welsh Pony of Cob Type (Section C)''' may not exceed {{hands|13.2}} high. They are known for their strength, hardiness and gentle nature. In contrast to the Welsh pony (Section B), the Pony of Cob Type is heavier, more coblike and compact.<ref name=WPCSASecC>[http://www.welshpony.org/SectionC.htm Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America: Section C] accessed on 14 September 2007</ref> They have a moderate amount of [[feathering (horse)|feathering]] on their legs.<ref name=USEF/> |
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=== Section C === |
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The Welsh Pony of Cob Type first resulted from a crossbreeding between the Welsh mountain pony (Section A) and the Welsh Cob (Section D). Today, some Section C ponies are still produced from this cross. In the past the WPCS also accepted Section C ponies with Section B blood but that is no longer the case. There were also crosses with [[Iberian horse]]s, which led to the development of the Powys horse, which was also a foundation for this type. Other breeds also influenced the Section C, including the [[Norfolk Trotter]], the [[Hackney (horse)|Hackney]] and [[Yorkshire Coach Horse]].<ref name=Standard/> |
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The Welsh Pony of Cob Type is shown in jumping events and in harness,<ref name="WPCS C and D"/> notably in [[combined driving|competitive driving]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=R_YKBgAAQBAJ&pg=PA152&dq=welsh+cob+driving&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjqkLT__7TLAhXCSiYKHTYQC-MQ6AEILjAB#v=onepage&q=welsh%20cob%20driving&f=false|title=The Original Horse Bible|publisher=|accessdate=10 March 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://wpcs.uk.com/breed_information/section_c_d/|title=Section C & D|publisher=|accessdate=10 March 2016}}</ref> |
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|header = Section C |
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| [[File:Welsh-C-Trot.jpg|150px]] |
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|image1 = Welsh C en show.jpg |
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|image2 = Welsh-C-Trot.jpg |
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! scope="row" | D |
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| The '''Welsh Cob (Section D)''' is the largest size within the Welsh Pony and Cob breed registries. They must be taller than {{hands|13.2}}, with no upper height limit.<ref name=USEF/><ref name="WPCS C and D">[http://www.wpcs.uk.com/ponies/sectioncd.html Ponies and Cobs, Sections C and D] Accessed 26 August 2009</ref><ref name=WPCSASecD>[http://www.welshpony.org/SectionD.htm Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America: Section D] accessed on 14 September 2007</ref> They are used as riding horses for both adults and children, and are also used for driving. They are known for their hardiness and gentle nature.<ref name=USEF/> |
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}} |
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The '''Welsh Pony of Cob Type (Section C)''' may not exceed {{hands|13.2}} high. They are known for their strength, hardiness and gentle nature. In contrast to the Welsh pony (Section B), the Pony of Cob Type is heavier, more coblike and compact.<ref name=WPCSASecC>[http://www.welshpony.org/SectionC.htm Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America: Section C] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080611011134/http://www.welshpony.org/SectionC.htm |date=11 June 2008 }} accessed on 14 September 2007</ref> They have a moderate amount of [[feathering (horse)|feathering]] on their legs.<ref name=USEF/> |
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Though Welsh Cobs are the tallest and stockiest of the Welsh sections, the head remains full of pony character, with large eyes and neat ears. The legs may be relatively short, also akin to pony proportions. Mature [[stallion (horse)|stallions]] have somewhat cresty necks, while those of mares are generally leaner. Like the Section C, they have powerful, extravagant action. [[Gray (horse)|Grey]] colouring is rarer in the Section D Cob than other types of Welsh ponies, but bold [[horse markings|white markings]] are common. |
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The Welsh Pony of Cob Type first resulted from cross-breeding between the Welsh mountain pony (Section A) and the Welsh Cob (Section D). Today, some Section C ponies are still produced from this cross. In the past the WPCS also accepted Section C ponies with Section B blood but that is no longer the case. There were also crosses with [[Iberian horse]]s, which led to the development of the Powys horse, which was also a foundation for this type. Other breeds also influenced the Section C, including the [[Norfolk Trotter]], the [[Hackney (horse)|Hackney]] and [[Yorkshire Coach Horse]].<ref name=Standard/> |
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Today, the Section D is best known for use in [[driving (horse)|harness driving]], but they are also shown under saddle and [[halter (horse show)|in hand]]. As with the other Welsh breeds, Cobs are also exhibited over fences as [[show hunter|hunters]] and [[show jumping|jumpers]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.welshpony.org/welshoverview.php|title=Welsh Pony & Cob Society|publisher=|accessdate=11 March 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://wpcs.uk.com/breed_information/section_c_d/|title=Section C & D|publisher=|accessdate=11 March 2016}}</ref> |
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The Welsh Pony of Cob Type is shown in jumping events and in harness,<ref name="WPCS C and D"/> notably in [[combined driving|competitive driving]].<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=R_YKBgAAQBAJ&q=welsh+cob+driving&pg=PA152|title=The Original Horse Bible|isbn=9781937049256|access-date=10 March 2016|last1=Reeve|first1=Moira C.|last2=Biggs|first2=Sharon|date=November 2011|publisher=Fox Chapel }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://wpcs.uk.com/breed_information/section_c_d/|title=Section C & D|access-date=10 March 2016}}</ref> |
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| [[File:WelshPonySectionD.jpg|150px]] |
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=== Section D === |
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[[File:Welsh Mountain Ponies.jpg|thumb|Children on Welsh Mountain Ponies]] |
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The Welsh also crosses well with many other breeds and has influenced the [[Pony of the Americas]] and the British [[Riding Pony]]. Many are also [[crossbreeding|crossbred]] with [[Thoroughbred]]s, and other [[list of horse breeds|horse breeds]]. The Welsh Pony has contributed to the founding of several other horse and pony breeds. The [[Morgan horse]] is one such breed, being in part descended from Welsh Cobs left behind by British forces after the end of the [[American Revolutionary War]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.morganmuseum.org/html/figure.html|title=The life and times of Figure|work=The Morgan Horse Museum|accessdate=11 March 2016}}</ref><!--verified this via the Morgan horse museum, but doesn't say for sure--> They are crossed with Arabians to produce riding horses, and with [[Thoroughbred]]s to produce [[show jumping|jumpers]], hunters and eventers. Welsh mares have also been used to breed [[polo|polo ponies]] that were agile and nimble.<ref name=OSU/> The Welsh Pony was used to create the [[Welara]], a popular crossbreed of the Welsh and the [[Arabian horse]], which was given a separate breed registry in America in 1981.<ref>{{cite web|title=Welara|publisher=Oklahoma State University|work=Breeds of Livestock|accessdate=2009-07-05|url=http://www.ansi.okstate.edu/breeds/horses/welara/}}</ref> |
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==Uses== |
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|header = Section D |
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[[File:North Forks Cardi Trot 5-Apr-09 3-48 PM.jpg|thumb|Welsh Cob under saddle]] |
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|image1 = WelshPonySectionD.jpg |
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|image2 = North Forks Cardi Trot 5-Apr-09 3-48 PM.jpg |
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The '''Welsh Cob (Section D)''' is the largest size within the Welsh Pony and Cob breed registries. They must be taller than {{hands|13.2}}, with no upper height limit.<ref name=USEF/><ref name="WPCS C and D">[http://www.wpcs.uk.com/ponies/sectioncd.html Ponies and Cobs, Sections C and D] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080108194712/http://www.wpcs.uk.com/ponies/sectioncd.html |date=8 January 2008 }} Accessed 26 August 2009</ref><ref name=WPCSASecD>[http://www.welshpony.org/SectionD.htm Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America: Section D] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080322200129/http://www.welshpony.org/SectionD.htm |date=22 March 2008 }} accessed on 14 September 2007</ref> They are used as riding horses for both adults and children, and are also used for driving. They are known for their hardiness and gentle nature.<ref name=USEF/> |
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The Welsh Pony has been put to many uses. Historically, they were used for [[postman|postal]] routes and in coal mines.<ref name=OSU/> The [[British War Office]] used the Welsh Cob to pull heavy guns and equipment through terrain where motorised vehicles could not, and also used them for [[mounted infantry]].<ref name=IMH/> Today, they are used as riding and driving ponies for both children and adults. Welshes today are also used in [[dressage]], [[endurance riding]], general riding, hunting, [[Jumping (horse)|jumping]], and work activities.<ref name="Event use">{{cite web | url=http://horses.petbreeds.com/l/58/Welsh-Pony | title=Welsh Pony | accessdate=2 April 2016}}</ref> They have proven their ability at driving in [[International Federation for Equestrian Sports|Fédération Équestre Internationale]] (FEI) level competition, and have been used for [[dressage]].<ref name=Article/> They also compete against one another in breed show competition as [[Show hunter|hunters]], [[three day eventing|eventers]], and [[western pleasure]] horses.<ref name=USEF/> The abilities of the Welsh pony were showcased in 2008 when the first champion Large Pony [[show hunter|Hunter]] to be made into a model [[Breyer horse]] was a grey Welsh pony gelding.<ref>{{cite journal|journal=Practical Horseman|title=First pony hunter "Breyered"|volume=36|issue=11|page=68|date=November 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.usef.org/_IFrames/newsDisplay/viewPR.aspx?id=3530 | author=Fallon, Kathleen |title=Newsworthy Becomes First Champion Large Pony Hunter Breyer Portrait Model |publisher= United States Equestrian Federation |date= 26 August 2008| accessdate=19 October 2009}}</ref> <!--Nuance is that it was the first Hunter pony, not the first Welsh pony--> |
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Though Welsh Cobs are the tallest and stockiest of the Welsh sections, the head remains full of pony character, with large eyes and neat ears. The legs may be relatively short, also akin to pony proportions. Mature [[stallion (horse)|stallions]] have somewhat cresty necks, while those of mares are generally leaner. Like the Section C, they have powerful, extravagant action. [[Gray (horse)|Grey]] colouring is rarer in the Section D Cob than other types of Welsh ponies, but bold [[horse markings|white markings]] are common. |
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In former times many [[Liverpool docks]] [[carthorse]]s were sourced in Wales.<!--Do we really need this tacked on at the end? Couldn't it go somewhere else?--> |
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Today, the Section D is best known for use in [[driving (horse)|harness driving]], but they are also shown under saddle and [[halter (horse show)|in hand]]. As with the other Welsh breeds, Cobs are also exhibited over fences as [[show hunter|hunters]] and [[show jumping|jumpers]].<ref name=Society/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://wpcs.uk.com/breed_information/section_c_d/|title=Section C & D|access-date=11 March 2016}}</ref> |
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== See also == |
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{{clear}} |
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* [[Cob (horse)]] |
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* [[Mountain and moorland|Mountain and moorland ponies]] |
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== |
== Uses == |
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{{reflist|2}} |
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[[File:Welsh-D-Kutsche.jpg|thumb|Section D Welsh Cob pulling a carriage]] |
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The Welsh Pony has been put to many uses. Historically, they were used for [[postman|postal]] routes and in coal mines.<ref name=OSU/> The [[British War Office]] used the Welsh Cob to pull heavy guns and equipment through terrain where motorised vehicles could not, and also used them for [[mounted infantry]].<ref name=IMH/> Today, they are used as riding and driving ponies for both children and adults. Welshes today are also used in [[dressage]], [[endurance riding]], general riding, hunting, [[Jumping (horse)|jumping]], and work activities.<ref name="Event use">{{cite web | url=http://horses.petbreeds.com/l/58/Welsh-Pony | title=Welsh Pony | access-date=2 April 2016}}</ref> They have proven their ability at driving in [[International Federation for Equestrian Sports|Fédération Équestre Internationale]] (FEI) level competition, and have been used for [[dressage]].<ref name=Article/> They also compete against one another in breed show competition as [[Show hunter|hunters]], [[three day eventing|eventers]], and [[western pleasure]] horses.<ref name=USEF/> The abilities of the Welsh Pony were showcased in 2008 when the first champion Large Pony [[show hunter|Hunter]] to be made into a model [[Breyer horse]] was a grey Welsh Pony gelding.<ref>{{cite journal|journal=Practical Horseman|title=First pony hunter "Breyered"|volume=36|issue=11|page=68|date=November 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.usef.org/_IFrames/newsDisplay/viewPR.aspx?id=3530 | author=Fallon, Kathleen |title=Newsworthy Becomes First Champion Large Pony Hunter Breyer Portrait Model |publisher= United States Equestrian Federation |date= 26 August 2008| access-date=19 October 2009}}</ref> <!--Nuance is that it was the first Hunter pony, not the first Welsh pony--> |
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== References == |
== References == |
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{{Reflist|refs= |
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*{{cite book|author=Evans, J. Warren (editor)|title=The Horse|edition=2nd|publisher=Freeman and Company|location=New York|year=1990|isbn=0-7167-1811-1}} |
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*{{cite web|url=http://www.wpcs.uk.com/ |title=The Welsh Pony and Cob Society (United Kingdom)}} |
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<ref name=evans>{{cite book|editor-last=Evans | editor-first = J. Warren|title=The Horse|edition=2nd|publisher=Freeman and Company|location=New York|year=1990|page=[https://archive.org/details/isbn_9780716718116/page/61 61]|isbn=0716718111|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/isbn_9780716718116/page/61}}</ref> |
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*{{cite web|url=http://www.welshpony.org/| title=The Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America}} |
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}} |
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== External links == |
== External links == |
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{{commons|welsh}} |
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{{Commons category|Welsh Pony}} |
{{Commons category|Welsh Pony}} |
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* [http://www.wpcs.uk.com/ Cymdeithas y Merlod a'r Cobiau Cymreig (The Welsh Pony and Cob Society)] |
* [http://www.wpcs.uk.com/ Cymdeithas y Merlod a'r Cobiau Cymreig (The Welsh Pony and Cob Society)] |
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* [http://www.wpcsoa.com.au/ The Welsh Pony And Cob Society of Australia] |
* [http://www.wpcsoa.com.au/ The Welsh Pony And Cob Society of Australia] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150721235236/http://www.wpcsoa.com.au/ |date=21 July 2015 }} |
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* [http://www.welshpony.org/ The Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America] |
* [http://www.welshpony.org/ The Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America] |
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* [http://www.welshponyandcob.org/ The Welsh Pony and Cob Society of Canada] |
* [http://www.welshponyandcob.org/ The Welsh Pony and Cob Society of Canada] |
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{{Breeds originating in Wales}} |
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{{Equine|state=collapsed}} |
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{{Agriculture in Wales}} |
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{{British horses}} |
{{British horses}} |
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[[Category:Horse breeds originating in Wales]] |
[[Category:Horse breeds originating in Wales]] |
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[[Category:Animal breeds on the RBST Watchlist]] |
[[Category:Animal breeds on the RBST Watchlist]] |
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[[Category:Ponies]] |
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Latest revision as of 19:13, 6 October 2024
 Welsh Pony (Section B) | |
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| Other names |
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| Country of origin | Wales |
| Traits | |
| Weight |
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| Height |
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| Distinguishing features | Hardy, sure-footed, intelligent. Refined with clean bone, with substance, stamina and soundness. |
| Breed standards | |
The Welsh Pony and Cob is a group of four closely-related horse breeds including both pony and cob types, which originated in Wales. The four sections within the breed society for the Welsh breeds are primarily distinguished by height, and also by variations in type: the smallest Welsh Mountain Pony (Section A); the slightly taller but refined Welsh Pony of riding type (Section B) popular as a children's show mount; the small but stocky Welsh Pony of Cob Type (Section C), popular for riding and competitive driving; and the tallest, the Welsh Cob (Section D), which can be ridden by adults. Welsh ponies and cobs in all sections are known for their good temperament, hardiness, and free-moving gaits.
Native ponies existed in Wales before 1600 BC, and a Welsh-type cob was known as early as the Middle Ages. They were influenced by the Arabian horse, and possibly also by the Thoroughbred and the Hackney horse. In 1901, the first stud book for the Welsh breeds was established in the United Kingdom, and in 1907 another registry was established in the United States. Interest in the breed declined during the Great Depression, but revived in the 1950s. Throughout their history, the Welsh breeds have had many uses, including as a cavalry horse, a pit pony, and as a working animal on farms.
Today, the modern Welsh Pony and Cob breeds are used for many equestrian competitive disciplines, including showing, jumping, and driving, as well as for pleasure riding, trekking and trail riding. The smaller types are popular children's ponies. The Welsh also crosses well with many other breeds and has influenced the development of many British and American horse and pony breeds.
History
[edit]
Evidence suggests that a native pony existed in Wales before 1600 BC.[1] The original Welsh Mountain Pony is thought to have evolved from this prehistoric Celtic pony. Welsh ponies were primarily developed in Wales, and their ancestors existed in the British Isles prior to the arrival of the Roman Empire.[2] Bands of ponies roamed in a semi-feral state, climbing mountains, leaping ravines, and running over rough moorland terrain.
They developed into a hardy breed due to the harsh climate, limited shelter, and sparse food sources of their native country. At some point in their development, the Welsh breeds had some Arab blood added, although this did not take away the physical characteristics that make the breed unique.[3]
The Welsh Cob existed as a type as early as the Middle Ages, and mentions of such animals can be found in medieval Welsh literature. During this time, they were known for their speed, jumping ability, and carrying capacity. Before the introduction of large, "coldblood" draught horse breeds, they were used for farm work and timbering. In 1485 the Welsh Militia, riding local animals presumed to be ancestors of the modern Welsh Cob, assisted Henry Tudor in gaining the English throne.[3] During the 15th century, similar small horses were also used as rounceys, leading war horses known as destriers.[1]
The characteristics of the breed as known today are thought to have been established by the late 15th century, after the Crusaders returned to England, with Arab stallions from the Middle East.[1] In the 16th century, King Henry VIII, thinking to improve the breeds of horses, particularly war horses, ordered the destruction of all stallions under 15 hands (60 inches, 152 cm) and all mares under 13 hands (52 inches, 132 cm) in the Breed of Horses Act 1535. The laws for swingeing culls of 'under-height' horses were partially repealed by a decree by Queen Elizabeth I in 1566 on the basis that the poor lands could not support the weight of the horses desired by Henry VIII because of "their rottenness ... [they] are not able to breed beare and bring forth such great breeds of stoned horses as by the statute of 32 Henry VIII is expressed, without peril of miring and perishing of them", and (fortunately for the future of Britain's mountain and moorland pony breeds) many ponies in their native environments, including the Welsh breeds, therefore escaped the slaughter.[4]
On the upland farms of Wales, Welsh ponies and cobs would often have to do everything from ploughing a field to carrying a farmer to market or driving a family to services on Sunday. When coal mining became important to the economy of the British Isles, many Welsh ponies were harnessed for use in mines, above and below ground.[5]
In the 18th century and 19th century, more Arab blood was added by stallions who were turned out in the Welsh hills. Other breeds have also been added, including the Thoroughbred, Hackney,[1] Norfolk Roadster, and the Yorkshire Coach Horse.[6] Before the car was developed, the quickest mode of transport in Wales was the Welsh Cob. Tradesmen, doctors, and other businessmen often selected ponies by trotting them the 35 uphill miles from Cardiff to Dowlais. The best ponies could complete this feat in under three hours, never breaking gait. Formal breeding stock licensing was introduced in 1918, but before this, breeding stock was selected by such trotting tests.[3]
_(14590000600).jpg)
In 1901 English and Welsh breeders established a breeders' association, the Welsh Pony and Cob Society, and the first stud book was published in 1902. It was decided that the Welsh Stud Book should be separated into sections divided by type and height. Welsh Ponies were originally only classified as Section A, but in 1931, with the rising demand for riding ponies for children, Section B was added. In the first stud books, the Section B was the Welsh Pony of Cob Type, and the Welsh Cob was Section C and Section D. The upper height limit for Section D Cobs was removed in 1907 and in 1931 Sections C and D were combined as simply Section C. The current standards of Cobs as Sections C and D were finalised in 1949. Until the mid 20th century, the British War Office considered the Welsh Cob so valuable that they paid premiums to the best stallions. After World War II, only three stallions were registered in Section C, but numbers have since recovered.[1]
A small semi-feral population of about 120 animals still roams the Carneddau mountains in Snowdonia, Wales.[7]
Welsh ponies were first exported to the United States in the 1880s, and large numbers were exported between 1884 and 1910.[3] They adapted easily to the terrain and climate variations they encountered in Canada and the United States. An American association, also named the Welsh Pony and Cob Society, formed in 1906,[2] and by 1913 a total of 574 ponies had been registered.[3] During the Great Depression, interest in the breed declined, but made a comeback in the 1950s.[8] The population continued to grow: in 1957, when annual studbooks began to be published, 2881 ponies had been registered; by 2009, the number was more than 34,000.[1] All Welsh ponies and cobs in the United States descend from ponies registered in the UK stud-book.[6]
Foundation lines
[edit]The stallion Dyoll Starlight was credited with being the foundation sire of the modern breed, and was a combination of Welsh and Arab breeding. From his line came an influential stallion of the Section B type: Tan-y-Bwlch Berwyn. This stallion was sired by a Barb and out of a mare from the Dyoll Starlight line. Influential stallions on the Section C and D bloodlines include: Trotting Comet, foaled in 1840 from a long line of trotting horses; True Briton, foaled in 1930, by a trotting sire and out of an Arab mare; Cymro Llwyd, foaled in 1850, by an Arab stallion and out of a trotting mare; and Alonzo the Brave, foaled in 1866, tracing his ancestry through the Hackney breed to the Darley Arabian.[1]
Influence
[edit]The Welsh crosses well with many other breeds, and has influenced the Pony of the Americas and the British Riding Pony. Many are also cross-bred with Thoroughbreds, and other horse breeds. The Welsh Pony has contributed to the founding of several other horse and pony breeds. The Morgan horse is one such breed, being in part descended from Welsh Cobs left behind by British forces after the end of the American Revolutionary War.[9] They are crossed with Arab horses to produce riding horses, and with Thoroughbreds to produce jumpers, hunters, and eventers. Welsh mares have also been used to breed polo ponies that were agile and nimble.[3] The Welsh Pony was used to create the Welara, a cross-breed of the Welsh and the Arab horse, which has been registered in America as a separate breed since 1981.[10]
Characteristics
[edit]
All sections of Welsh ponies and Cobs have small heads with large eyes, sloped shoulders, short backs and strong hindquarters. The forelegs are straight and the cannon bone short. The tail is high-set. The breed ranges from 11 hands (44 inches, 112 cm) for the smallest ponies to over 16 hands (64 inches, 163 cm) for the tallest Cobs.[11] They may be any solid colour, but not tobiano or leopard-spotted.[2] Black, grey, chestnut and bay are the most common, but there are also buckskins and palominos.[3] as well as smoky blacks and double creams. However, British equine colour terminology commonly refers to the buckskin colour, which is caused by the same cream dilution gene that produces palomino, as "dun", but the true dun gene is extremely rare in the Welsh breed due to it being bred out of most lines.[12]
Their movement is bold, free and characteristically fast, especially at the trot, with great power coming from the hocks.[3] Their trot has been favourably compared to that of the Standardbred horse.[13] They are reputed to be trustworthy, of a good disposition with even temperaments and friendly characters, but spirited and with great endurance,[3] and are known for their stamina, soundness, and high level of intelligence.[11]
Sections
[edit]Section A
[edit]
The Welsh Mountain Pony (Section A) is the smallest of the Welsh breeds. Both the Section A and Section B ponies are more refined than those in Section C and D. They are characterised by a large eye, small head (often with a dished face from the Arabian influence), high set on tail, and refined leg conformation, but retaining good bone and correctness.[14][15]
The Welsh Mountain Pony (Section A) may not exceed 12.2 hands (50 inches, 127 cm) in the US[14] or 12 hands (48 inches, 122 cm) in the United Kingdom.[15]
Section B
[edit]
The Welsh Pony of Riding Type (Section B) is the second division within the Welsh pony registry.[15][16] The Section B Welsh Pony is a larger, riding-type pony, which combines the hardiness and substance of the Section A with elegant movement and athletic ability.[17] Section B ponies are taller than Section A with a maximum height of 13.2 hands (54 inches, 137 cm) in the UK and 14.2 hands (58 inches, 147 cm) in the US. They are known for elegant movement and athletic ability while still retaining the substance and hardiness of the foundation stock, the Section A Welsh Mountain pony.[15][16] They have no lower height limit.[17]
Section B ponies also generally have a slightly lighter build, as a result of Thoroughbred and Hackney blood. Section B ponies resemble the Section A pony, but are of a more refined "riding type". However, they should not be light of bone; they should resemble their Mountain Pony ancestors for quality of bone. In addition to the desirable characteristics of the Section A pony, Section B ponies have a free-flowing movement. They should have a muscular neck, arching from withers to poll, and have a deep, wide chest. Section B ponies are more commonly used as children's ponies and as pony hunter-jumpers.[18]
Section C
[edit]
The Welsh Pony of Cob Type (Section C) may not exceed 13.2 hands (54 inches, 137 cm) high. They are known for their strength, hardiness and gentle nature. In contrast to the Welsh pony (Section B), the Pony of Cob Type is heavier, more coblike and compact.[19] They have a moderate amount of feathering on their legs.[17]
The Welsh Pony of Cob Type first resulted from cross-breeding between the Welsh mountain pony (Section A) and the Welsh Cob (Section D). Today, some Section C ponies are still produced from this cross. In the past the WPCS also accepted Section C ponies with Section B blood but that is no longer the case. There were also crosses with Iberian horses, which led to the development of the Powys horse, which was also a foundation for this type. Other breeds also influenced the Section C, including the Norfolk Trotter, the Hackney and Yorkshire Coach Horse.[6]
The Welsh Pony of Cob Type is shown in jumping events and in harness,[20] notably in competitive driving.[21][22]
Section D
[edit]
The Welsh Cob (Section D) is the largest size within the Welsh Pony and Cob breed registries. They must be taller than 13.2 hands (54 inches, 137 cm), with no upper height limit.[17][20][23] They are used as riding horses for both adults and children, and are also used for driving. They are known for their hardiness and gentle nature.[17]
Though Welsh Cobs are the tallest and stockiest of the Welsh sections, the head remains full of pony character, with large eyes and neat ears. The legs may be relatively short, also akin to pony proportions. Mature stallions have somewhat cresty necks, while those of mares are generally leaner. Like the Section C, they have powerful, extravagant action. Grey colouring is rarer in the Section D Cob than other types of Welsh ponies, but bold white markings are common.
Today, the Section D is best known for use in harness driving, but they are also shown under saddle and in hand. As with the other Welsh breeds, Cobs are also exhibited over fences as hunters and jumpers.[5][24]
Uses
[edit]
The Welsh Pony has been put to many uses. Historically, they were used for postal routes and in coal mines.[3] The British War Office used the Welsh Cob to pull heavy guns and equipment through terrain where motorised vehicles could not, and also used them for mounted infantry.[1] Today, they are used as riding and driving ponies for both children and adults. Welshes today are also used in dressage, endurance riding, general riding, hunting, jumping, and work activities.[25] They have proven their ability at driving in Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) level competition, and have been used for dressage.[11] They also compete against one another in breed show competition as hunters, eventers, and western pleasure horses.[17] The abilities of the Welsh Pony were showcased in 2008 when the first champion Large Pony Hunter to be made into a model Breyer horse was a grey Welsh Pony gelding.[26][27]
References
[edit]- ^ a b c d e f g h "Welsh Ponies and Cobs". Horse Breeds of the World. International Museum of the Horse. Retrieved 13 March 2016.
- ^ a b c Evans, J. Warren, ed. (1990). The Horse (2nd ed.). New York: Freeman and Company. p. 61. ISBN 0716718111.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j "Welsh Pony and Cob". Breeds of Livestock. Oklahoma State University. Retrieved 1 July 2009.
- ^ "Safety in the Wilderness". The Fell Pony Museum. May 2004. Archived from the original on 20 March 2012. Retrieved 29 June 2017.
- ^ a b "Welsh Pony & Cob Society". Retrieved 27 June 2017.
- ^ a b c Lynhaugh, Fran (2 October 2009). The Official Horse Breeds Standards Guide. Voyageur Press. p. 544. ISBN 978-0760334997.
- ^ "Ponies get Checkup". North Wales Daily Post. 11 November 2013. Retrieved 10 March 2016.
- ^ "OneBreed-Four Sections". Welsh Pony & Cob Society of America. Retrieved 5 July 2009.
- ^ "The life and times of Figure". The Morgan Horse Museum. Retrieved 11 March 2016.
- ^ "Welara". Breeds of Livestock. Oklahoma State University. Retrieved 5 July 2009.
- ^ a b c Stover, Martha (September 2005). "Welsh Ponies and Cobs" (PDF). Equestrian: 92–94. Archived from the original (PDF) on 10 March 2016. Retrieved 28 June 2017.
- ^ "The Welsh Pony & Cob Society of Australia Inc - The Breed For All The Family". Retrieved 11 March 2016.
- ^ "Welsh Pony". The Columbia Encyclopedia (6th ed.). 2000. p. 40785.
- ^ a b Welsh Pony and Coby Society of America: Section A Archived 10 January 2008 at the Wayback Machine accessed on 14 September 2007
- ^ a b c d "Section A & B". Welsh Pony and Cob Society. Retrieved 28 June 2017.
- ^ a b Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America: Section B Archived 14 March 2008 at the Wayback Machine accessed on 14 September 2007
- ^ a b c d e f "Welsh Pony and Cob Division". United States Equestrian Federation. Retrieved 29 June 2017.
- ^ Huntington, Peter; Myers, Jane; Owens, Elizabeth (2004). Horse Sense. Landlinks Press. ISBN 9780643065987. Retrieved 10 March 2016.
- ^ Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America: Section C Archived 11 June 2008 at the Wayback Machine accessed on 14 September 2007
- ^ a b Ponies and Cobs, Sections C and D Archived 8 January 2008 at the Wayback Machine Accessed 26 August 2009
- ^ Reeve, Moira C.; Biggs, Sharon (November 2011). The Original Horse Bible. Fox Chapel. ISBN 9781937049256. Retrieved 10 March 2016.
- ^ "Section C & D". Retrieved 10 March 2016.
- ^ Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America: Section D Archived 22 March 2008 at the Wayback Machine accessed on 14 September 2007
- ^ "Section C & D". Retrieved 11 March 2016.
- ^ "Welsh Pony". Retrieved 2 April 2016.
- ^ "First pony hunter "Breyered"". Practical Horseman. 36 (11): 68. November 2008.
- ^ Fallon, Kathleen (26 August 2008). "Newsworthy Becomes First Champion Large Pony Hunter Breyer Portrait Model". United States Equestrian Federation. Retrieved 19 October 2009.
External links
[edit]
- Cymdeithas y Merlod a'r Cobiau Cymreig (The Welsh Pony and Cob Society)
- The Welsh Pony And Cob Society of Australia Archived 21 July 2015 at the Wayback Machine
- The Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America
- The Welsh Pony and Cob Society of Canada
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