Are Shetland ponies good for children, Shetland Pony Club, Surrey, UK

With 10 years’ experience at Shetland Pony Club, Rosemary answers your question: “Are Shetland ponies good for children?” in this week’s pony advice video.

Are Shetland ponies good pets?

Shetland ponies have a reputation of being a bit cheeky, naughty and tricky to handle, so are they good for children, and do they make good pets? Yes, Shetland ponies can be good for children and make good outdoor pets, as long as you remember that they are horses, look after them correctly and meet their needs. Shetland ponies are very little and cute, and can be the perfect small child’s pony. They are, very intelligent, loyal and they like companionship, so they can be an ideal child’s friend.

How do you look after a Shetland pony?

To care for a Shetland pony, you need to ensure that he has:

The right amount of food and exercise
Good training and experience with children
Companionship with ponies and friendship with people

How much should you feed a Shetland pony?

As Shetland ponies are very small, it’s easy to feed them too much. If they get too much grass they can put on weight and be too lively for small children to ride. So, a healthy diet and a regular exercise routine ensure that Shetland ponies are good for children to ride.

How do you train a Shetland pony?

Shetland ponies are horses, just the same as other breeds, so they need the same handling, training, and exercise routines as any horse. If you consistently treat them with respect, they will return your loyalty and trust, and be excellent ponies for young children.

Are Shetland ponies friendly?

Yes, Shetland ponies can be very friendly and loyal. They are intelligent and make friends with children and other ponies, as long as they are happy and treated properly. Shetland ponies have different personalities. It can be very rewarding getting to know your pony and his unique character, and making friends with him.

Are Shetland ponies good for children?

In summary, Shetland ponies are good for children if they are well trained, have the right amount of food and exercise and enjoy companionship. Then they can give a magical childhood to your child and memories that last a lifetime.

Watch the video to find out more:

Book now for Summer pony riding

May is a very busy month at Shetland Pony Club, so we’d love you to join us for pony fun, from June. Do book ahead as the ponies are very popular. Summer Camp bookings are now open too.

Which pony ride should I choose?

Starter Rides – are 45 minutes long and are specially designed as first riding experiences for children from age 2½ years old. They cost £40 per child.

Pony Mornings – are 2 hours long and are delightful early riding and learning experiences for children from age 4 years old. They cost £55 per child.

Summer pony camp days and weeks – enjoy the whole day with your favourite Shetland Pony. Learn to ride him, look after him and enjoy being with him, all day long. 9.30am – 4pm, Summer holidays only. Age 5+. £125 per day or £500 per week.