Differences between Horses and Ponies
Both horses and ponies are related, as they belong to the same species Equus ferus, but they are actually different. Ponies are small horses that are under 14.2 hands and may also differ by certain aspects like temperament, musculature, and bone structure. It is a common misconception that ponies are baby horses that have not attained maturity yet. By comparison, ponies remain small throughout their life while baby horses continue to grow to their adult size until they are about seven years of age. To a person unfamiliar with horses, a miniature horse and pony may appear to be the same, but mini horses are much smaller than full-sized horses and ponies.
Horse and Pony
What is the Difference between a Horse and Pony |
|
Horse |
Pony |
|
Size |
|
| 14.2 hands (58 inches) or taller |
Less than 14.2 hands at the withers |
|
Strength |
|
| Naturally strong, some are bred for carrying lumber and pulling cart |
Hardier, and extremely strong for their size but not as strong as horses |
|
Appearance |
|
| Have a long mane and tail, tough hooves, long legs |
Stockier and shorter-legged, with thicker mane, tougher hooves |
|
Temperament |
|
| Quieter and more docile |
More intelligent, stubborn, and can be full of tricks |
|
Popular Breeds |
|
| Clydesdale, Arabian, Thoroughbred, American Quarter, Percheron, Belgian |
Shetland, Dartmoor, Connemara, Welsh Cob |
Interesting Facts
- Some horses, like the feral horses of Assateague Island, grows up to the height of a pony or average small horse. These wild horses are called Chincoteague Ponies.
- Although Thoroughbred horses (with height more than 14.2 hands) are used for polo (a mounted team sport), they are known as Polo Ponies irrespective of their height.
