Shetland Ponies native land is the Shetland Islands located 100 miles off the northeast cost of England. The islands from which they originated would be all but barren if it weren't for the grassy meadows that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Being closer to the Arctic Circle than England, the islands make for some of the worst weather conditions in the British Isles. It is for this reason that Shetland Ponies grow a thick double coat with guard hairs that repel rain and keep the skin dry enabling the ponies to weather extremely frigid temperatures. In warmer weather, the ponies shed their coat for a shorter one with a silky sheen.

The most remarkable feature of the Shetland pony is its strength relative to its size. This, along with their generous and affectionate nature, makes for an outstanding breed of ponies.

Condensed from: A pony for the people, John E. Lewis, Horse Illustrated (Aug 1997)