Dales Pony: Size, Temperament and Care

Who a Dales Suits

Dales ponies suit adults who want a strong, forward pony for hacking, driving, trekking and riding club. They are big enough for most adults and many children ride them too.

They are powerful and bright, so they need consistent handling and a rider confident with an active pony.

Pack and Farm Ponies of the Dales

Dales ponies developed in the upper dales of the eastern Pennines, where they carried lead ore from the mines to the ports and worked on farms. They are known for strength, stamina and a powerful trot.

The Dales Pony Society keeps the stud book and sets the breed standard. Dales are a rare breed, and breeders work hard to keep the population healthy.

Feeding and Grazing

Like most native ponies, Dales ponies evolved on poor, rough grazing and are very good at turning a little food into a lot of pony. On rich lowland grass that talent becomes a problem: they put on weight fast, and extra weight raises the risk of laminitis. Ask your vet whether your pony's grazing should be limited, especially in spring and early summer.

Base the diet on forage: grass in moderation and weighed hay, often in a small-hole haynet. Most need little or no bucket feed, just a ration balancer or mineral lick for vitamins and minerals, plus salt and fresh water. Read feeding horses forage first and body condition scoring.

Hooves, Teeth, Coat and Weather

Dales are known for hard, well-shaped feet. Pick them out daily and book the farrier every few weeks. Keep feather clean and dry, and check the skin underneath when grooming. Book a dental check at least once a year.

Most grow a thick winter coat and, with shelter, many cope without a blanket (rug) unless clipped for work.

Company, Space and Handling

Dales need equine company and daily turnout, on grazing that won't overfeed them. See grazing and pasture management.

Health: Preventive Care

Book a check-up soon after your pony arrives, and ask your vet about vaccinations and a worming plan guided by fecal egg counts. Plan for the farrier every few weeks and a dental check at least once a year. Score body condition every few weeks, by hand: weight creeps on quietly, especially on spring grass.

Worming, vaccinations and any medicines: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. They can tell you what suits your pony and where you live.

Buying, Loaning or Rescuing

The Dales Pony Society, breeders and rehoming charities are good places to start. Have a vet do a pre-purchase examination, check the passport, and ask about driving, traffic and the farrier. See buying a horse.