The Dales

The Dales.
These versatile ponies come from the eastern hills of the Pennine range. Many breeds - including the extinct Scotch Galloway, the Wilson pony (now the Hackney pony ) and the Norfolk and Yorkshire Roadster (Trotters) - played a part in the development of the Dales we know today. Until the middle of the 19th century, Dales were bred as pack animals for the booming lead industry. Despite being small they can carry up to 126kg (about 20 stone) and pull up to a ton.
In both World Wars Dales were used by artillery regiments. After the Second world war the breed was in danger of extinction, but was saved by the efforts of breeders and the Dales Pony Society.

APPEARANCE
The head is neat and pony like. The eyes are wide set and the ears are inwardly curving. Its strong neck is set onto sloping shoulders and a broad chest. The quarters are powerful, the legs are of good quality with plenty of feather; the feet are hard and well shaped. The mane and tail are long.

HEIGHT
Up to 14.2hh.

COLOUR
Black, sometimes brown, grey and bay and occasionally roan.

PERSONALITY
Dales pony's are intelligent and sensible. They are fast, stylish trotters and are good at jumping. Nowadays they are popular for trekking, harness work, jumping and general riding. Dales carry both adults and children, but are not recommended for novices as they are very strong.

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