Welsh Cob and Pony are mainly four pony and cob horses that originated in the Welsh of England. The Cob and ponies are well-known for their temperament, behavior, hardiness, and smooth gaits. The four pony and horses are grouped in sections: Section A- Welsh Mountain Pony, Section B- Welsh Pony of Riding Type, Section C- Welsh Cob Type Pony, and Section D- Welsh Cob.
What is the Difference Between Cob and Horse?
Cobs are larger than the pony and smaller than a horse. The cobs stand between 14.2 to 14.3 hands in height. The cobs, also called draft pony with a hardy body and short legs, can work more than a pony. The maintenance cost of cobs is less than a horse, but you will get more output. The Welsh Pony and Cob is one of the most popular and well-known Cobs in the world.
History and Origin of Cob
Welsh Pony and Cob was developed from a native pony breed of the British Isles before 1600 AD. At that time, the horse was used for leading war horses and rounces. Later the Arabian horse blood was added to this breed when crusaders brought this horse breed from the Middle East. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the horses were mixed with Thoroughbred, Hackney Pony, Yorkshire Coach Horse, Norfolk Roadstar, and their present shape. The Welsh Cob was used in the agricultural field, pulling the carriage, minefield, family service, and show jumping.
Welsh Pony and Cob Society was formed in 1901, and the first Studbook was published in 1902. The horse was first exported in the United States of America in 1880, and a large amount was in 1910. American Welsh Cob and Pony society were formed in 1906, and around 600 horses were registered by 1913. At present, more than 30,000 horses are found throughout the world.
Physical Characteristics of Welsh Horse
The horse is larger than the ponies and smaller than the horses. The Cob’s head is small, the eyes are more enormous, the shoulder is slopped, and the hindquarters are strong. The ears are neat, the chest is broad and profound, and the male has a crested neck. The back is short, the forelegs are straight, and canon bones are strong.
Height and Weight of Horse
The average height of the horse is between 14.2 to 14.3 hands (58 to 59 inches). The bodyweight of the Cob is between 400-450 kg (900-1000 pounds).
Color and Markings of Cobs
The Welsh Cob is found in any solid horse color except leopard-spotted and tobiano. The standard colors are bay, black, grey, chestnut, palominos, and buckskin. The horse is also found in dun, smoky black, and double cream in color.
Behavior and Temperament
The horse is excellent conformation, bold movement, especially during the trot; the power coming from the powerful hock. The horse looks like the Standardbred horse of America. The Cob has a reputation of excellent behavior, temperament, trustworthiness, and friendliness. The Cob is highly spirited with great endurance, stamina, a higher level of soundness, and intelligence.
Health and Fitness of The Horse
The Welsh Pony and Cob is generally healthy and did not affect by any specific disease. The horse is suited to be in a harsh climate and can carry more weight. They require usual horse feed and grass. They require less care and management.
Influence of Welsh Cobs on Other Breed
The Welsh Cob is a multitalented and multidimensional horse breed that has influences on many other horse breeds.
- Morgan.
- Pony of the Americas (POA).
- British Riding Pony.
- Polo Ponies.
- Welara (A crossbreed between Welsh Cob and Arabian).
Popular Traits of Welsh Cob and Ponies
The popular traits of Cob are:
- Powerful with extravagant action.
- Multitalented horse.
- Easily trainable.
- Excellent in jumping.
- Extremely hardy.
- Having characteristic high speed.
What is Welsh Cobs good for?
Welsh Cob is a versatile horse breed that is used for many purposes. The significant uses of the breed are:
- They were previously used in the agricultural field and minefields.
- The British Army was used for pulling Artillery guns and heavy equipment in areas where motorized vehicles do not reach.
- Present-day, used for driving horses both for adults and kids.
- The horse is also used for hunting, jumping, general riding, and dressage.
- Competitive events and Western Pleasure Riding.
Concluding Remarks on Welsh Cob and Ponies
Welsh Pony and Cob is a multidimensional British horse breed. The horse was originated from native British feral ponies and developed at its present state by the mixture of many horses. The Cob is used for versatile purposes and is popular with many horse lovers. They are suitable for kids and beginners due to their excellent temperament and intelligence.
