Do you dream of starting horse riding? Great idea! Horse riding is one of the most enjoyable sports out there (in our opinion 😉). Maybe you're looking for your first pony, or you're just curious which pony breeds are most suitable for your first lessons at the riding school. There are many different pony breeds, all with their own character, size, and qualities.
In this blog, you'll discover how to make the right choice and which ponies are suitable for novice riders.
Which horse or pony suits me?
Finding the right match starts with yourself. Not all pony breeds suit every rider. First, honestly assess your goal, your experience, and your daily life. Below you'll find a practical guide to help you choose step by step:
· Experience and guidance: Are you a beginner or do you already have some riding experience? That makes a big difference. Make sure you get good guidance, for example at a riding school or from an experienced instructor.
· Goal and discipline: What do you want to do? Dressage, jumping, trail riding, or perhaps a combination? Each discipline requires different qualities. If you have a clear goal, it will be easier to choose the right breed.
· Size, build, and carrying capacity: The pony must suit your height and build well. You want to be able to sit comfortably, with your legs nicely along the pony's side. Don't just consider your own weight, but also how strong and fit the pony is. Some ponies are small but sturdily built and can carry more than you think, while larger ponies can be less powerful.
· Character and temperament: Do you prefer a calm and reliable pony, or do you prefer one with a bit more spirit? A calm pony builds your confidence while learning. An energetic type is fun if you like more of a challenge. Smart ponies pick things up quickly, but can also be a little stubborn. By trying out different pony breeds, you'll naturally discover what makes you happy.
· Care and maintenance: Having a pony is fantastic, but don't forget it also takes time and money. Think about the farrier, dentist, feed, and a well-fitting saddle. In addition, the place where your pony is housed is important: can it often go out into the pasture or does it mainly stay in the stable? Also always ask about its health and how the pony stays in condition throughout the year. Do you find all this responsibility a bit much? Then you can start with a shared pony. This way you learn a lot about handling horses, but the main care is not your responsibility. Or choose to ride at a riding school; then you enjoy the sport without the worries that come with owning a pony.
· Safety and trial riding: Always try out the pony yourself, in the arena and outside. Watch how the owner saddles up; that often says a lot. Bring someone with experience; they will notice details you might miss.
Top 7 pony breeds for novice riders
Below you will find the most popular pony breeds that are known for being friendly, reliable, and suitable for beginners:
Shetland Pony – small but strong
The Shetland Pony is small in stature but super strong. These ponies are suitable for young children who want to learn how to handle horses. Thanks to their intelligent character, they are eager to learn, but sometimes also mischievous.
Welsh Pony – versatile and friendly
Friendly, smart, and versatile, that's how the Welsh Pony is known. This breed is among the best pony breeds for beginners and feels at home in many disciplines.
Fjord – reliable and calm
With a calm and stable character, the Fjord is one of the most beloved ponies for novice riders. They are strong, reliable, and easy to ride. Thanks to their level-headed nature, they remain calm in all kinds of situations, making riders quickly feel at ease.
Haflinger – strong and eager to learn
A Haflinger is known for its striking blonde mane and friendly appearance. These ponies are powerful and eager to learn, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced riders.
Connemara – athletic and versatile
The Connemara comes from Ireland and is one of the few pony breeds that can also carry larger riders. They are athletic, reliable, and widely versatile. A good choice for riders looking for more of a challenge, but who still want a safe foundation.
New Forest Pony – ideal for children
New Forest Ponies are smart, playful, and reliable. This makes them a good match for young riders taking their first steps in equestrian sports.
Icelandic Horse – suitable for recreational riding
The Icelandic Horse is a unique breed known for its extra gaits, such as the tölt. This gait provides a comfortable ride. Due to their calm character, Icelandic Horses are well-suited for recreational riders who enjoy relaxed trail rides.
Do you have any questions about the best pony breeds for beginners? Or about our products? Feel free to ask, contact us and we will be happy to help you!
