Related Links:
Back to the main List of Breeds page.

Introduction.

Few will dispute the tremendous contributions the Irish have made to the equine world, and for many horse enthusiasts the Connemara Pony tops the list. Named for Ireland’s rugged western region in which it was developed, this distinctive breed is highly prized for its temperament and athleticism.

History.

The Connemara’s development was primarily driven by its native terrain and natural selection. The western area of Ireland known as Connemara features rocky, windswept mountains and long stretches of moors and bogs, all shaped by the tides and frequent storms of the Atlantic Ocean that forms its western boundary. To survive here required agility, surefootedness and the ability to exist on the sparse vegetation afforded by the area’s cruel climate.

The farmers of Connemara shared the difficulties of life in this harsh setting, struggling to feed their large families from the meager landscape. The typical farm family could only afford one pony, and this was frequently a mare captured in the mountains. These mares worked hard – moving ton after ton of rocks to clear the fields, carting seaweed from the shore to the fields to be used as fertilizer, and carrying turf from the bogs to be used for heating and cooking, maneuvering through muck that would have stopped most horses.

Last but not least, these hardy mares were expected to produce a foal each year. Typically, the foals were sired by stallions that traveled between the farming villages, covering many miles and mares each day. The foals were often sold to help support the family during the dark winter months. If a mare lacked the stamina, soundness and disposition required of this lifestyle, she was replaced. As a result, the best mares were kept in Connemara and reproduced these qualities in their offspring.

The same qualities of agility, hardiness and willing disposition that were prized by the farmers of Connemara are what make these remarkable equines so popular today. Over the years, Connemara Ponies have made their way to the various countries of Europe, to Australia and New Zealand, and of course to the United States. They are widely recognized for their natural jumping talent, and their overall conformation and long length of stride make them well suited for dressage. These phenomenal athletes are therefore frequently found competing in a wide range of activities, from the dressage arena to the hunter ring to the cross-country course, not to mention their popularity with carriage driving competitors.

Foundation.

The precise origins of the Connemara Pony are obscured by time, similar to so many breeds developed over hundreds of years. Considered by some to be Ireland’s only native breed, it is believed that the first ponies were brought to the island over 2,500 years ago by the ancient Celts, who used them for pulling war chariots and racing. Legend has it that when the Spanish Armada sank off the western coast of Ireland in the 1500’s, the Spanish Barb horses on board swam to the Connemara shore and bred with the native ponies running wild in the mountainous terrain. There is also some indication that Thoroughbred and Arabian blood was introduced in the 1700’s.

Type.

The Connemara is rugged and sturdy, with a deep, compact body. The well-shaped head is distinguished by a large, kind eye. A relatively long neck leads into a long, well-angled shoulder. The back is strong and muscular, while the hindquarters are deep and well-rounded. Most importantly of all, the Connemara is mannerly and manageable, kind, responsive, possessing good sense and basic intelligence.

Colors.

The most common colors are gray and dun, however bay, black, brown, chestnut, palomino and roans can all be found. Piebalds and skewbalds are not accepted for registration.