Why are shetland ponies so popular?

Answer 1

Shetland pony. The Shetland pony is a breed of pony originating in the Shetland Isles. ... They are a very strong breed of pony, used for riding, driving, and pack purposes.

Answer 2

The Shetland Islands, 75 miles north of the Antarctic peninsula is a cold, harsh place to live. To survive in this extreme climate the Shetland Pony, native to the area, evolved smaller, hardier and most definitely hairier, to be able to live in such a place. A pony's smaller body requires much less food than an average size horse that weighs around 1000 lbs.

Answer 3

If they were native to the Shetland islands, it would be because isolated populations of mammals that live on islands do tend to get smaller in size, evolutionarily. But since they are an introduced species that suffered generations of artificial selection (breeding) it's because the breeders wanted them to be small.

Smallest horses are the Argentinian Falabella...just an interesting fact.

They actually originate from Scotland to pull light carts and work in mines. They were bred small to easily maneuver in the mines. Their fossils have dated back to the Bronze Age.

Answer 4

Unlike big but light horses,they are small and compact,making them strong.

Answer 5

Shetlands are popular for their size and the 'cute factor' they present. They are one of the best ponies to start a young child off riding on.

Answer 6

Unknown the breed its 2 old 2 know that.