Dartmoor Pony: Size, Temperament and Care

Who a Dartmoor Suits

Dartmoors suit young riders who need a sensible, well-made pony, families looking for a companion pony, and smaller adults who want to drive. The breed society values them as children's ponies and companions, and they compete in many disciplines.

As with any pony, temperament depends on the individual and its training. An experienced Dartmoor makes a better first pony than a young, unhandled one.

Ponies of the Moor

Dartmoor ponies have been recorded on the moors of Devon since the Middle Ages. Herds still graze Dartmoor today, owned by local farmers, and their grazing helps keep the moorland habitat in good shape.

Ponies that live semi-wild on Dartmoor have a special passport rule in England: they only need one if they are kept enclosed on private land or treated by a vet. Once a moor-bred pony comes into a home, it needs a passport and microchip like any other.

Feeding and Grazing

Like most native ponies, Dartmoors 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

Dartmoors generally have hard, hardy feet. Pick them out daily and book the farrier every few weeks. Dental checks at least once a year keep a small mouth comfortable.

The thick winter coat and full mane and tail are built for moorland weather, so many Dartmoors with shelter manage without a blanket (rug). Check by hand under the coat for weight changes.

Company, Space and Handling

Dartmoors need equine friends and daily turnout, on grazing that won't overfeed them. Safe fencing and a field shelter or good hedges complete the picture. 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

Breed society members, reputable breeders and rehoming charities are good starting points. Ponies bred on the moor may be unhandled, which is a job for an experienced person. Have a vet do a pre-purchase examination and check the passport. See buying a horse.