Shetland pony Horses in St Albans, Hertfordshire

2 Shetland pony Horses in St Albans, Hertfordshire

Dun Shetland gelding

Shetland pony

Jeffrey is looking for a new home due to no fault of his own I just do not have the time to give him.Very quiet and good to handle. Comes to call, good for the farrier, clip. Would be perfect as a lea

Chelmsford, Essex (34.6mi)

Miniature super Shetlands!

Shetland pony

Freddo (Fred) was born on the farm this April and currently lives out with a shelter accessible, in a mixed herd of Shetlands. Fred is very quiet and kind, I do not believe he would take much to sta

Sandy, Central Bedfordshire (26.2mi)

FAQs

What are the disadvantages of owning a Shetland Pony?

Shetland Ponies can have several disadvantages including susceptibility to serious metabolic health issues such as liver problems, hyperlipemia, and equine Cushing’s disease. They are prone to laminitis and metabolic syndrome due to their tendency to gain weight easily. Behaviourally, they can be cheeky and stubborn, requiring consistent training and social interaction to manage their mischievous nature. Additionally, they can damage lawns and plants, produce a substantial amount of manure, and are known escape artists and can be nippy, so secure fencing and careful handling are important.

Can I keep a Shetland Pony in my garden in the UK?

While it is possible to keep a Shetland Pony in a garden in the UK, it is generally not ideal as they require about one acre of space, which is often larger than most gardens. They can damage grass and plants, and their manure can harm lawns if not managed. They need shelter for protection against bad weather and shade in summer. Their dietary needs must be carefully managed as typical garden grass can lead to obesity. Shetlands are herd animals and are happier with space to graze and socialise with other ponies.

What are some unusual features of Shetland Ponies?

Shetland Ponies are notable for their very thick, long coats that protect them in harsh weather but can sometimes hide diseases like equine Cushing’s. Despite their small size, they possess exceptional strength and can carry considerable loads. They are also genetically predisposed to metabolic conditions related to obesity and insulin resistance, which makes their health management unique among horse breeds.

What is the temperament of Shetland Ponies?

Shetland Ponies are intelligent and strong-willed, often displaying a playful, cheeky, or ‘naughty’ behaviour that requires firm and consistent training. They are social animals needing companionship to avoid behavioural problems caused by isolation. Due to their nippy tendencies and skill at escaping enclosures, handling them requires experience and caution.