The
American Shetland is very different from the tough Shetland of the British Isles.
Pony pics
In 1885 the first recorded lightly built Shetland-ponies were imported to the United States by Eli Elliot.
These were the foundation stock for the development of the American-Shetland by crossing them with Hackney ponies, resulting in a Hackney-type show or harness pony.
How is a new breed established?
A foal that has similar characteristics to their father or sire is known as "prepotency".
Horses that have this quality may be used to start new breeds.
Once the new breed has been established,horses that meet the breed's standards are registered in a stud book.
The American-Shetland Pony Club formed in 1888 recognizes four types of Shetlands-Modern, Pleasure, Classic and Foundation.
Modern Shetland are typically the tallest of the breed; they are shown with a high head set, ribbon braids in their manes, tail sets and have high stepping action.
Pleasure ponies have similar breeding though their action is more subdued.
Classic-Shetlands are the most typical type and are known for their refinement and gentle nature while lacking most of the action of the Modern ponies.
Finally, Foundation ponies do not have any Hackney influence for four generations and are all under 42" tall.
Their looks are most reflective of their British ancestry.
American-Shetland Ponies are more refined than the traditional Shetland.
The head and neck carriage have the characteristics of the Hackney pony.
The body is long and narrow with a thick mane and tail.
The breed is more refined than the traditional Shetland.
Long and narrow through the back, with broad and muscular hindquarters and high withers.
The shoulder has good slope, allowing for extravagant action.
These ponies are most often used for harness work and as children's ponies.
They can be seen show jumping in classes for young riders, at horse shows in both Western and English riding classes, as well as many other competitive events, including gymkhana, novelty harness racing.
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