Originated from the upper dales of north east England. They were bred as pack ponies for the lead industry, which wanted surefooted, fast strong ponies. They carried 200 lbs. of lead over rough rocky trails covering 200 miles a week. So these ponies are big boned, high stepping, tuff ponies. They are between 14hh and 14.2hh tall, come in colors of Black, Brown, Bay or Gray and rarely roan.
They are renowned for the quality of their feet and legs. Their hooves are large, round, hard and flinty. Their legs have large flat bone cannons. Their action is straight, high and true. They have lots of mane and tail and their legs have long straight silky feathers.
They are a first choice driving pony with bold temperament, great presence and a high stepping fast trot.
The combination of good conformation, energy and surefootedness make the Dales pony excellent for riding. They have a ground covering walk, stamina and determination to keep going over long distances, making them favorites for trekking and long distance rides. They are good jumpers and usually show positive DAP, making them ideal dressage horses.
All of these great attributes make the Dales Pony the Great-All-Rounder.