Welsh Mountain PonySection A
Height: Not to exceed 12.2 h.h
The Welsh Mountain Pony needs little introduction. Bred for generations in the rugged mountains and wild regions of Wales, their famed beauty is far more than skin deep. Centuries of "survival of the fittest" have forged a pony with a strong constitution, iron-hard limbs, sharp intelligence, and the legendary Welsh temperament—qualities that make them the ideal child's pony today. They can be seen ridden and driven across the world, thriving equally in the cold climates of Canada and Sweden or the heat of Africa and Australia.
The head of the Mountain Pony should be small and refined, with neat, pointed ears, large bold eyes, and a broad forehead. The jaw should be clean-cut, tapering to a small muzzle, with a profile that may be slightly concave or dished, but never convex or overly straight. The neck should be of good length and proudly carried, flowing into well-sloped shoulders and a clearly defined wither. Limbs must be well set and straight, with strong, flat bone and round, dense hooves. The tail should be set high and carried proudly. Movement must be straight both in front and behind, quick and free, with well-flexed hocks.
Section B Welsh Pony
Height: Not exceeding 14.0 hh
The general description of the Welsh Mountain Pony also applies to the Welsh Pony, with a greater emphasis on riding pony qualities, while still preserving the true Welsh type—combining quality with substance.
For generations, these ponies served as the hill farmer’s primary means of transport, adept at herding sheep and managing wild ponies across rugged, mountainous terrain. To survive such conditions, they had to be hardy, sure-footed, and swift, ensuring that only the best were chosen for breeding. These time-tested traits, paired with natural jumping ability and the excellent temperament inherited from their Welsh Mountain Pony ancestors, make the Welsh Pony a standout in any discipline a young rider might pursue. Today, they are counted among the finest riding and driving ponies, excelling both in performance competitions and in the show ring.
Section C The Welsh Pony of Cob Type
Height: Not exceeding 13.2 hh
The Welsh Pony of Cob Type is a stronger counterpart of the Welsh Mountain Pony, but with Cob blood. Their true worth as a dual purpose animal has been fully realized in recent years and their numbers have increased accordingly.
Active, surefooted and hardy, they are ideal for so many purposes both for adults and for children. Like all the Sections of Welsh they are natural jumpers, and they also excel in harness. They are an ideal family pony, able to serve each member of the family with their many abilities.
Section D The Welsh Cob
Height: Exceeding 13.2 hh
Often hailed as “the best ride-and-drive animal in the world,” the Welsh Cob has earned a lasting reputation over the centuries for its courage, willingness, and remarkable endurance.
This breed embodies strength, hardiness, and agility. The head is refined, showcasing classic pony character with bold, prominent eyes, a broad forehead, and neat, well-set ears. The body is deep and powerful, supported by strong limbs with durable, well-formed joints and an abundance of flat bone. Movement is expected to be straight, free, and energetic.
The Welsh Cob is not only an excellent hunter but also a skilled competitor across various sporting disciplines. In recent years, the breed has achieved outstanding success on the international driving stage, with its talents now recognized and celebrated worldwide.
