• All Welsh ponies are descended directly and entirely from animals registered with the Welsh Pony and Cob Society in Wales

• Welsh Native Ponies are divided into 4 sections - A, B, C, D

• Section A. The Welsh Mountain Pony (also known as Welsh, Welsh Mountain, Section A pony or Native pony) is the original and smallest, probably descended from the Celtic pony, Arab, Andalusian and Thoroughbred. As far back as Roman Times there have been references to wild mountain ponies. Julius Caesar set up a stud at Lake Bala, Merionetshire. Over the last 200-300 years, two Arab stallions have roamed the Welsh Mountains to improve native stock. This breed has lived on mountains for over 1,000 years. It's tough, sure footed and quick This breed has always bred out in the mountains. Breeders world wide import fresh stock from Wales. Welsh Mountain Pony has been used a foundation stock for 3 other Welsh breeds. These ponies are courageous, have high endurance, are intelligent, gentle and have a natural jumping ability. Excellent children's pony, good trot, goes well in harness. Originally used underground to haul coal

• Section B. Bred as a quality children's riding pony. Created by crossing Welsh Mountain mares with a small Thoroughbred stallion called Merlin (direct Darley Arabian descendent). These ponies are also known as Merlins. Arab and Section C blood may have been mixed in. Slightly taller and more lightly built than Welsh Mountain pony

• Section C • Welsh pony is smaller version of Welsh Cob. An energetic, brave, versatile pony. Used mainly in harness in the past and for trekking. A good hunting pony for children. The mane and tail are silky with small amount of heel feather. Originally used for shepharding and general farm work

• Section D. Welsh Cob is slightly larger version of cob-type pony. Thought be have been created somewhere around the 12th century. A cross between Welsh Mountain ponies and Spanish horses. May be related to extinct Old Welsh Cart-horse • Used as pack horse in medieval times. They are good trotter, used to create and improve trotting breeds worldwide.

• Welsh ponies have a small head and a concave face (dished) with a crested neck and sloping shoulders

• They have a Short back and highly set tail

• The legs are short and the feet are neat