Shetland Ponies

Shetland ponies have strong, short legs. They have bushy manes and tails. These ponies were bred to live in very cold places. Now many people keep them as pets.

Scottish Shetland ponies have very thick coats. They shed in the summer. They have wide backs. American Shetland ponies have smooth coats. They are taller and more graceful.

Shetland ponies prefer to be outside. They need pastures. The pastures need shelter. A Shetland pony’s thick mane and tail need to be combed and untangled.

Shetland ponies are very smart. If they are trained well, they are good at following instructions. Most are gentle. They are good horses for children to ride.

The first Shetland ponies lived in Scotland. They pulled loads. Shetland ponies came to North America in 1885. People began to breed American Shetland ponies, too.

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Shetland Pony Classification: Mammal
Average Life Span: 20 to 35 years
Origin: Shetland Islands in Scotland
Average Height A Scottish Shetland pony is as tall as an acoustic guitar.
Average Weight A Scottish Shetland pony is as heavy as two refrigerators.

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