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Introduction.

As the name implies, Welsh Ponies and Cobs originated in the rugged hills and valleys of Wales, in the western portion of Great Britain. They are believed to have existed in the harsh climate and rough terrain of their native land for over 1,000 years.

History.

Life in the wild was not easy for the forerunners of today’s Welsh Pony. Sparse vegetation, steep, rocky hills and ravines, and severe winters with little or no shelter meant that only the most hardy individuals survived. Even when King Henry VII decreed that all horses under 15 hands should be destroyed, the Welsh Pony managed to escape persecution, perhaps by hiding in areas too rugged and remote for his would-be killers. As a result, the Welsh developed a tremendous soundness, endurance and intelligence.

The Welsh Pony and his larger counterpart, the Welsh Cob, were put to many uses by the human inhabitants of Wales. There is evidence that the ponies were used to pull chariots in vast sports arenas centuries ago. In addition, they worked in coal mines and of course on the local farms.

Like the Welsh Pony, farmers commonly used the Welsh Cob, and he also served as a military mount. References to the Welsh Cob can be found in medieval Welsh literature, lending credence to the theory that the breed existed at least as early as the Middle Ages. One early reference noted that the Welsh Cob had to be “fleet of foot, a good jumper, a good swimmer and able to carry a substantial weight on his back.” Legend has it that the Welsh militia was mounted on these cobs when they helped Henry Tudor gain the British throne in 1485. In fact, the Welsh Cob was so valuable for mounted infantry and pulling heavy artillery and equipment that the British War Office paid premiums to the owners of the best stallions until about 30 years ago in an effort to foster their continued breeding.

Foundation.

It is generally believed that the Welsh originally descended from Celtic ponies. While the Welsh’s overall physical appearance suggests the influence of Arabian blood at some point in its development, the breed has retained its own unique physical and mental characteristics down through the centuries, and it was a desire to preserve these distinctive traits that led to the formation of the Welsh Pony and Cob Society in Wales in 1901. From the start it was decided to register and record the ponies and cobs together, dividing them into four sections based on type and height. When the Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America was created in the U. S. in 1907, it followed the format established by the U.K. society, and these four sections are still maintained today.

Sections A and B are reserved for the Welsh Pony. Section A ponies are also known as Welsh Mountain Ponies, and cannot exceed 12.2 hands. Section B was added to accommodate the demand for a larger riding-type pony, however Section B ponies cannot exceed 14.2 hands.

Sections C and D are designated for the Welsh Cob. Section C, known as the Welsh Pony of Cob Type, is limited to ponies of 13.2 hands or less. Section D Welsh Cobs must be taller than 13.2 hands with no upper limit on height.

Type.

Overall the Welsh Pony is recognized as much for his temperament as for his great physical beauty. Beneath his athletic exterior beats a true heart of gold. Intelligent, proud and spirited, at the same time these ponies are very gentle, making them an ideal mount for children. While the natural athletic ability developed over the centuries makes these ponies especially suited and most commonly used as hunters, they are also shown in saddle seat and western classes, and are very popular for driving.

Like the Welsh Pony, the Welsh Cob is widely recognized for his temperament as well as his athletic ability. Strong, hardy and active, he is also known for his gentle, tractable disposition. As a result, the Welsh Cob is highly popular for dressage, combined training and combined driving, where his powerful trot is a true standout.

Colors.

Welsh Ponies and Cobs come in a variety of colors. Chestnut, bay, brown and black are the most common, but grays, duns and palominos can also be found. Piebalds and skewbalds are prohibited in all sections.