The Dales Pony, a member of the group of ponies known as the Mountain-Moreland Ponies, is a native of the
"Upper Dales" of the eastern slopes of the Pennine Range in England which is on the Scottish border. This region
of England had a lead mining industry which flourished from the time of Roman occupation until the later part of the
19th century. This vital industry of the time required the service of strong, hearty ponies to transport the heavy loads
of lead, as well as lumber, coal and supplies, over the rugged moors and hills to and from the Northeastern coastal
ports of England, over 250 miles each way. Usually, twenty or so ponies would be loosely tied together with only
a single rider to guide them. The demands of these duties were largely responsible for the development of what
would become the Dales Pony breed.
The Scotch Galloway pony was originally used for this purpose but through selective breeding with other native
pony herds the largest, strongest and most durable ponies were most desirable for the challenging pack work.
These ponies eventually superseded the Scotch Galloway and this hearty breed of ponies came to be known
as Dales Ponies. Continued selective cross breeding with the Norfolk Cob and the Yorkshire Trotter breeds
produced the foundation of today's flashy, eye catching trot. The path to the breed known today as the Dales
Pony also has traces of Clydesdale and Fresian blood in their DNA.
Railways and trucks eventually displaced these hearty ponies from their pack duties but their confirmation and
abilities had not gone unnoticed by local farmers and they had also become an indispensable asset to the rural
families and quickly adapted to many new jobs which gave rise to their reputation and title of being the
"Great All 'Rounder". On any given day they might be tasked to plow the fields, harvest crops, round up the
sheep, haul hay and feed, take the family to market, compete in trotting races or carry their master on an
enjoyable, all day, fox hunt.
Unfortunately, though, their many assets - compact size, durability, strength, willingness to please, easy to
care for and strong constitution among them - almost caused them to become extinct. During World War I
and World War II these dedicated ponies were asked to adapt to yet another job ......Military Service. They
were extremely well suited for hauling artillery, munitions and supplies over rugged terrain for the armies.
Sadly, due to the wars, starvation and slaughter large numbers of these ponies died. In the 1950's it was
discovered that there were less than a dozen registered Dales Ponies to be found in the world.
Fortunately, through much effort and great concern by people dedicated to this beautiful breed it was
saved from extinction. Today there are approximately two thousand throughout the world with about two
hundred and fifty living in various regions of the United States
We are very fortunate to be one of the farms that are home to some of these beautiful creatures. Eye catching
in presence, intelligent and sound of mind, agile and sure footed are just some of the attributes of the
Dales Pony of today. Their size is appropriate for most adults and yet also very well suited for younger equestrians
in whatever discipline or activity one chooses. This lesser known but very stately and capable pony has truly
earned its title of "The Great All 'Rounder".