Welsh Cobs - A Short Narration into this fascinating and exceptional breed.

Experts consider that the origins of Welsh cobs existed before 1600 BC. The original Welsh Mountain Pony is thought to have evolved from the prehistoric Celtic pony. Welsh ponies were primarily developed in Wales and their ancestors existed prior to the arrival of the Romans. Herds of undomesticated ponies would wander the hilly and moorland terrains of Wales. In this harsh and at times bitter environment with little shelter and food, they developed into an exceptionally hardy breed. At some point in their development, the breed had some Arabian blood added, though this did not take away the physical characteristics that make this breed so unique. In 1901, the first registry for the ponies was established in the United Kingdom, and in 1907 an additional registry was established in the United States. Interest in the breed declined through the Great Depression, but revived in the 1950s.All through its history, the Welsh Pony has had many uses, including as a cavalry horse, a pit pony, welsh slate mining, working animal on farms and now by hgorse and pony lovers for evrnting and dressage.



Origins of the Welsh Cob existed in the middle ages, and are described in medieval Welsh literature. They were fast, good jumpers and could carry heavy loads and because of this were used on the moorland farms of Wales, and would do everything from ploughing fields, carrying product to marketplace and transporting the family to and from the neighboring town and chapel services on Sunday. When coal and welsh slate mining started to be important to the economy of Wales and England, numerous Welsh ponies were harnessed for use in mines, over and below ground.



Today the breed registries for the Welsh pony has four sections, mainly distinguished by height, but also by slight variations in type as follows: the Welsh mountain pony, the Welsh pony, the Welsh pony of cob type, and the Welsh Cob. The great thing with the breed is that as well as being exceedingly hardy, they are known for their excellent nature and as a consequence are a popular children's pony. In the present day the breed is used by horse and pony lovers, both for pleasure riding and in show contests, participating in many equestrian disciplines. The Welsh Cob crosses well with many other breeds and has influenced the development of many British and American horse and pony breeds.



Wales is home to many welsh pony and cob studs, that tend to be manned by enthusiastic and passionate owners and staff who are fully commited to the preservation and development of the breed. There are many shows where the breeder’s passion is displayed by the turnout of wonderful looking ponies which are in great condition and a credit to the origins of the breed. While in Wales, the pleasure of seeing these creatures wandering the farms and pastures in their natural surroundings warms the heart and thanks must go to the enthusiast animal lovers who continue to protect the breed.



Visit http://www.horseandponyshopuk.com and see a web page devoted to a traditional welsh cob stud. http://www.horseandponyshopuk.com/photo_album.