What makes a Fell pony a Fell pony? What makes them unique?
The British native ponies are bred to think for themselves, take charge of themselves, and survive. Fells are survivors par excellence; constitutionally tough, but sweet natured and willing to work with you. Trust, plus soundness and intelligence, are the Fell’s biggest assets. The Fell is a large pony averaging 13-2, with the upper height limit at 14 hands. Like several other British breeds, manes and tails are left to grow long, and the feather on the lower legs should be straight and silky. Hooves are hard, “blue” (dark grey) in colour, well formed, round, and open. Fells usually have 8.5 inches of bone and often more, but flat bone is preferred to round. Colours are black, brown, bay and grey. White markings are small and limited to a small star on the head or a little white on the hind feet below the fetlocks. Fell action is from the shoulder, only moderately high and rounded, not snapping the knee like a Hackney or extending the toes like an Arab. Movement is usually very correct
Related Questions
- The Fell Pony Societys literature says that Fells should not be clipped, trimmed or braided. Does this mean "not ever", or just not for showing?
- I have heard that "the Fell pony is not a breed for everyone." What are the characteristics of the ideal Fell pony owner?
- What makes a Fell pony a Fell pony? What makes them unique?
