Every child’s dream as they grow up is to have a horse or pony. There is no better gift for children than to have a great companion who will be with them through good and bad times during their childhood. So, for anyone who is thinking about buying a horse or pony for their children, we thought we can help you out by compiling a list with the 10 horse and pony breeds that are very suitable for children. Below you will find the most important traits of these breeds than it is up to you to choose. Keep reading!
Shetland Pony
Shetland ponies are recommended for children because of their small size, stability, and entertaining personalities. However, despite their small stature, this breed is very strong. Due to their intelligence, positivity, and docility to others, these horses are the ideal choice for children’s pony. On specific occasions, they might become a little bit anxious and irritated, so if you don’t behave very carefully around them, these adorable ponies can even become stubborn and spoiled.
Welsh Pony and Cob
Welsh ponies of all sizes can make good mounts for children. One of the most valuable qualities of the Welsh pony and cob is their flexibility. They’re able to withstand harsh climates and inadequate pasture. Although they may be small, they still exhibit remarkable energy. These ponies are suitable for all levels and ages of riders, from amateurs to professional riders. They are recognized as loving, intelligent, and loyal horses that are very easy to work with. Some might have a playful streak, giving them the “troublemakers” mark among ponies. Nevertheless, several people enjoy this extra feature of this loyal and docile breed.
Pony of the Americas
The pony of the Americas has the perception of being a North American breed developed particularly for young riders. It emerged from a cross between an Arabian-Appaloosa mare and a Shetland stallion, which produced a small colt with a flashy coat pattern. It has the best features of all three breeds.
Miniature Horse
Miniature horses are a pleasure to work with and due to their small size, they aren’t fit for riding by anyone over 70 pounds. But a mini can be great for children to learn how to ride and take care of a horse. Their little size makes them super adorable and cute, in fact, they are even smaller than ponies and is safe to safe that they are one of the friendliest and loving breeds around. Mini horses are often a part of animal-assisted therapy groups for people with incapacities. Their kind, gentle nature and less intimidating size make them the perfect animal for people that are timid or very sensitive. Minis also compete in sports similar to dog agility courses.
American Quarter Horse
Although it’s not a pony, the American quarter horse is a remarkably popular family horse for its versatility and laid-back temperament. They aren’t massive horses, averaging around 5 feet in height, which can work for an older child. And they are usually sensitive and highly responsive, even for beginning equestrians.
Appaloosa
Appaloosas are another horse breed that is very great for children. This amazing breed can be found in almost every discipline – setting speed records on the racetrack, working cattle, showing dressage, jumping, strength riding or serving as reliable family horses. They’re often chosen for children’s mounts because of their gentle, level-headed temperament. They also are particularly friendly and loyal horses, which makes for a loving family companion. Plus, they’re reasonably easy to maintain, even for beginning equestrians.
Paint Horse
Paint horses are a full-size breed that has a strong mix of American quarter horses in their family. Similar to the quarter horse, they tend to have a peaceful and gentle temperament. They’re also very social, intelligent horses, which makes them easy to train. Overall, they tend to offer a trustful, well-balanced ride.
Morgan
Morgan horses are wonderful family horses, especially for beginning riders. They are recognized for being profoundly helpful and keen to please. And they usually love to socialize with their human family members. They also have a comparatively small stature compared to other horse breeds, which is adaptable for many children.
New Forest Pony
Developed in the United Kingdom, the New Forest pony has mixed with several breeds over the centuries. This has resulted in a friendly, kind, and obedient animal. These beautiful ponies tend to be trainable and eager to please. Their bodies are small enough even for a small child to ride, even without supervision.
