SHETLAND PONY

With four types in the U.S., there's a Shetland for any driver or small rider to enjoy.

- BY SAMANTHA JOHNSON

The picturesque, windswept Shetland Islands are located in the waters of the northern Atlantic Ocean, situated between Iceland, Norway, and Scotland. And while the islands are recognized as part of Scotland, they're actually not too distant geographically from Norway. The Shetland Islands are known for agriculture, fishing, and tourism, and they're also known as the birthplace of several iconic breeds, including the Shetland Sheepdog, Shetland sheep, and—of course—the Shetland Pony.

A BELOVED BREED

There's lots to love about the Shetland Pony. If you've had the good luck to spend time with one, you'll have no trouble seeing why the breed has been so popular for so long.

The original Shetland Ponies that lived on the islands centuries ago were extremely hardy individuals, used to life in the rugged climate of the Northern Atlantic. Those early Shetland Ponies often went to work in Scottish coal mines, where they were valued partners for the coal miners. As the need for ponies in the mines decreased, the ponies found new (and more fun) careers—as beloved ponies for children.