Shetland Ponies
Shetland ponies are Britain’s smallest native pony breed, standing no taller than 42 inches. Despite their small size, they are among the hardiest ponies, having lived on the Shetland Isles for at least 2,000 years. The harsh, windswept terrain and extreme weather have shaped them into strong, resilient animals.
These ponies have a thick double coat that protects them from the elements – shedding rain in winter to keep their skin dry and developing a sleek shine in summer. Their long, flowing manes and tails add to their distinctive appearance, and they come in almost every colour except spotted.
Shetlands are known for being intelligent, playful, friendly, and gentle, but they can also be quite headstrong and stubborn if not properly trained.
Diet
Shetland ponies are herbivores and eat grass, hay, leaves, and twigs. Because they adapted to survive on the sparse vegetation of the Shetland Isles, they require less food than larger horse breeds and rarely need grains or concentrates.
FUN FACT
Shetland ponies are incredibly strong for their size and can pull twice their own weight. Historically, they played an important role in island life, carrying peat from bogs to cottages for fuel and hauling seaweed from the shore to fertilise fields. They can also run at speeds of up to 30 km per hour!
LIFE SPAN
Known for their long lifespans, Shetland Ponies can live to become anywhere between 20 - 25 years old.
HABITAT
Shetland Isles, located northeast of mainland Scotland. These ponies are well adapted to the rugged landscape, moving easily through boggy heath and rocky hills in search of food and shelter. Their natural hardiness allows them to live outdoors year-round, enduring some of Britain’s harshest weather conditions.