Exmoor Pony Breed 

Country of Origin: The Exmoor is semi wild and live in the mountains and moorlands of Britain. 

Blood Type: The Exmoor is a pony breed in the warmblood group. 

History: The Exmoor is a primitive breed and is one of the oldest equine breeds in the world. They may have existed as far back as the Bronze Age. They are mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1085 AD. Being a relic of the wild horse, they have similarities to the Pleistocene cave paintings of wild horses in France and to the Tarpan and to Przewalski’s horse. Remote habitat has kept the breed from being influenced much by other breeds.

At one time they were prolific all over Europe but are so greatly reduced in number that they face extinction. In 1921 the Exmoor Pony Society was founded to encourage breeding to avoid extinction. 

Height: The Exmoor Pony is small and stands only 12HH – 12.3HH. 

Colors: The Exmoor Pony is a dun  color and has black points.  

Description: The Exmoors have several distinctive features that have evolved from their environment. Their coat is waterproof because it is double layered with a short, woolly layer under a longer, greasy overcoat and  keeps them warm or cool, and dry; a heavy top lid over their eyes called ‘toad eye’; and a fanlike growth of bushy hair at the top of their tails.

The Exmoors have a clean-cut face, a wide forehead, large eyes, wide nostrils and small, mobile ears; and an intelligent expression; deep, wide chests; a compact frame, with well-sprung ribs; and short, strong legs.

Temperament: The Exmoor is a hardy pony that is usually good-natured. 

Uses: The Exmoors are athletic, strong and durable and have great stamina. They make a good mount for older children.