{"piano":{"sandbox":"false","aid":"u28R38WdMo","rid":"R7EKS5F","offerId":"OF3HQTHR122A","offerTemplateId":"OTQ347EHGCHM"}}

‘A good one is priceless’: what makes a perfect first pony?


  • Money can buy most things — but it’s not the only consideration when buying a first pony. We suss out what to look for in a four-legged gem.

    Although a little girl might fantasise about owning a unicorn, looks are low on the agenda when it comes to the perfect first pony.

    Temperament

    “Temperament is the most important criteria,” says showing producer and lead-rein specialist Sharn Linney.

    “All children need a kind, quiet pony for the crucial early days, who is willing to do whatever is asked of them in and out of the stable — ground manners are key. Breeding, age and colour are irrelevant, although the pony should be sound and healthy.”

    Size

    Many of us treasure early photos of ourselves with our legs halfway up the saddle flaps — and Sharn is flexible on height, so long as the child isn’t over-horsed.

    “They shouldn’t be too big or strong, but nothing so small that they will quickly be outgrown — the partnership takes time to build.”

    Reputation

    Sharn’s main warning is to avoid ponies with no history.

    “Contact reputable breeders, ask local Pony Clubs, and don’t rush the decision,” she says. “And always see the current owner ride the pony first, so you know whether the pony is suitable for your child to ride.”

    Hannah Goffe of White House Farm Equestrian has found perfect ponies for everyone from Russian oligarchs’ children to her own daughters, and also stipulates kindness as key.

    “The first pony needs to make the child want to carry on riding,” she adds. “I wonder how many future riders we’ve lost because they’ve had an inappropriate first pony.”

    Price

    As for a ballpark price — there isn’t one.

    “Some are family pets who never come on to the market, or you may get lucky and land one on loan,” Sharn says. “A good one is priceless as they’re worth their weight in gold.”

    You may also be interested in…

    Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the Paris Olympics, Royal International, Burghley and more with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now.

    Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout HOYS, Maryland, Pau, London International and more with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

    You may like...