American Quarter Pony
The American Quarter Pony originated in the United States of America and was developed from the foundation bloodstock of the American Quarter Horse. This makes the breed very similar to the horse breed. These little horses are known for their charming looks and are incredibly famous as a mount in its homeland.
American Quarter Pony Pictures
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- American Quarter Pony Foal
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- American Quarter Pony Horse
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- American Quarter Pony Images
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- American Quarter Pony Mare
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- American Quarter Pony Photos
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- American Quarter Pony Pictures
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- American Quarter Pony Stallion
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- American Quarter Pony
Quick Information
| Behavioral Characteristics | Even temperament, adaptable, noble, lively, docile |
| Physical Traits | The profile is short with a short head and small ears, wide, expressive eyes, and a slightly-arched neck of medium size; the chest is broad and deep with a firm but short back, clean legs, having rounded hooves with an open, deep heel |
| Coat Colors | All colors are allowed |
| Height/Size | 11.2 to 14.2 hands (adult) |
| Weight | 800 to 900 pounds |
| Common Uses | Riding, driving, show, eventing, equestrian sports |
| Health Problems | Generally healthy |
| Type | Riding pony, Sport pony, Show pony |
| Blood Type | Warm |
| Ancestors (Bloodlines) | American Quarter Horse and various other horse/pony breeds |
| Popular Traits | Willing, obedient, ready to work |
| Feeding/Diet | General horse diet including hay, grass, grains, etc. |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Associations, Registries & Breed Standards | American Quarter Pony Association National Quarter Pony Association International Quarter Pony Association |
Video: American Quarter Pony Training in the Stable
History and Development
Technically, the American Quarter Pony is a small version of the American Quarter Horse and developed from those equines that failed to meet the height requirement defined by the AQHA (American Quarter Horse Association).
The pony was purposefully bred in order to resemble its horse-counterpart by selective crossing with other pony breeds. However, later, the minimum height requirement was subsequently terminated, and the development of the new pony continued. The popularity of the breed reached to such an extent that they continue to exist as one of the most famous pony mounts in the United States.
In 1964, the very first official registry for the quarter pony was established. At present, there are three official registries for these equines, with the other two starting in the 1970s. According to these registries, any stock type pony standing below 14.2 hands are eligible to be registered. However, no gaits or spots are allowed.
Different other breeds, viz., the Paint Horse, Pony of the Americas, Appaloosa, etc., are all allowed to be crossed with the Quarter ponies, though the registries prefer such specimens that have the Quarter Horse blood. Currently, the quarter ponies are used in different western riding disciplines.
