Dales ponies are native to Britain in North Yorkshire, Durham and Northumberland, England.
Photo of pony
The breed is about 2,000 years old with Clydesdale and Welsh Cob bloodlines.
In the 18th century they used underground in the lead mines and above the mines as pack ponies, caring lead across rugged terrain to the seaports.
Later they were used in the collieries underground as pit ponies.
The ponies stand around 14.2hh (1.48m) and colours are dark brown, black and sometimes grey.
With a straight pony like head, broad between the eyes resting on a thick arched neck, sloping shoulders.
They have a very strong back and loins,broad and well-muscled quarters.
Legs are hard, dense bone, clearly defined tendons, and large round hooves with open heels.
The mane and tail are tick and leg feathers are straight and silky.
They should move with an action of great energy and power, lifting the hooves well clear of the ground.
The over - all impression should be of an alert, courageous but calm and kind animal.
These ponies have immense strength and are able to carry an average weight of 100kg.
Dales horse
The breed is now used for general riding, harness work, farmwork and showing.
They compete in show jumping, cross-country, dressage, driving, and eventing.
Their calm, kind temperament, combined with their ability to carry heavy weights for long distances, has made them an ideal pony for endurance riding and trekking holidays, as they can carry novice or experienced riders, adults or children alike, over all kinds of terrain and for long distances.
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