by Quentin Morris

Created on: November 16, 2008   Last Updated: July 17, 2010

Dream of owning a horse or pony but don't know which way to turn? Horses and ponies come in a bewildering array of shapes and sizes and it's important to work out which breed is right for you before you buy. This article provides a straightforward, no nonsense guide to the main breeds.

Appaloosa: This spotty horse is a medium-large breed and a good all-rounder. The breed has a gentle nature and is a good family horse.

Arabian: These are medium sized horses, usually ranging from 14 16 hands, with a light, elegant build. They are very good long distance, endurance horses especially when they are older (over 12 years). When young they can be unpredictable and skittish and are not recommended for the inexperienced rider. Originally from the Middle East, these horses suffer harsh winters and are susceptible to mud-fever', an infection of the hoof, if exposed to very wet or muddy condition.

Connemara: A medium-size breed, the Connemara is a kind, family pony good for hunting and jumping.

Exmoor: A small, native pony, the Exmoor has a kind nature which makes it an ideal second pony for growing children. They have tough hooves and often don't need shoes, and can easily live outside all year round. The Exmoor is a rare breed.

New ForestPony: A medium size pony, they can easily carry an adult and as a native pony they are tough and can winter out. The breed can be prone to stubborness. The New Forest Pony is a rare breed.

Shetland: A small, stocky breed, these reliable animals are a classic first pony, ideal for children due to their gentle nature. Originally from the northern islands of Scotland, this is a very tough breed, able to live outside all year round without any problem.

Shire horse: Large horses, these gentle giants were originally a working breed. Due to their size they require larger stables and are not recommended for the average horse owner.

Welsh Pony: The Welsh pony comes in 4 classes: Section A, B, C and D. Section A: These are smallest class, lightly built, suitable for children or small adults and good for driving. Section B: A bigger version of the section A, still lightly built, the section B can easily carry adults. Section C: The same height as the section B, the section C is more heavily built and has a more independent nature. They are good endurance ponies and are often used for competitive driving. Section D (or Cob'): The Cob is the biggest and heaviest of the Welsh breed. They are often used for harness driving and hunting due to their robust build.

Thoroughbred: These are a large breed, most often used for horse racing and show jumping and known for their agility and speed. They have a delicate build and their flighty, unpredictable nature means they are not recommended for the inexperienced horse owner..

Quarter Horse: The fastest horse over a quarter mile, these horses are a medium size breed from America, and are tough and full of stamina. The original working cow-boy horse the Quarter horse is a hard-working, honest' breed.

(A word of warning! A horse or pony is a serious financial commitment. They also take up a lot of time and energy. Come rain or shine your horse has to be fed, watered and exercised. They also require specialist care and attention, so you can't just ask a neighbor to look after it if you go on holiday. Once you buy a horse, it becomes a way of life. Make sure you are prepared for this commitment and if you are not sure, get a horse on loan before you buy, to see if it fits in with your lifestyle.)

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