The Ariegeois Pony is named for the area in which it was first domesticated and bred, the Ariegeois Mountains and the Pyrenees that are found in both France and Spain.
Considered to be one of the early pony types, the Ariegeois has a long history of domestication and has been influential in the settlement, logging and mining industries in the area.
The Ariegeois Pony is one of the few types of ponies or horses that is always the same color. All Ariegeois Ponies are always black and any white markings are very rare.
The coat color of the Ariegeois Pony changes slightly in the winter. The longer winter hairs have a unique burgundy or red highlight that is easy to see in the sunlight.
Although relatively small in size, the Ariegeois Pony, also known as the Merens Pony, was used by military campaigns as a workhorse for hauling supplies and equipment. They were considered to be outstandingly tough and strong for their size and were used by Napoleon during the Russian campaign when many hundreds of larger horses perished in the harsh conditions.
The Ariegeois Pony is not a breed of horse that likes the heat. In their native lands in the heat of the day they stay under shelter in the forest and come out in the cooler evening temperatures to graze.
The mane and tail of the Ariegeois Pony are distinctive and unique simply because they are so thick and the hair is so profuse. The mane extends well down over the withers and is usually pulled for show, as it does get extremely long if not managed.
The strong, very round hooves of this mountain pony do not need shoes or any special care. Years of living in the mountains and being turned out over the winter to graze has gradually developed their hooves to unsurpassed strength.
The first actual established breeding and registry of the Ariegeois Pony was not until 1908, although the breed has existed since the earliest recorded times.
Prehistoric paintings found in the areas now known as France and Spain clearly show a small pony or horse that is still recognizable as the modern day Merens or Ariegeois Pony.
Arabian blood as well as an influence from the heavy Roman horses have done little to change the physical appearance of the Ariegeois Pony, likely because these ponies were so isolated in their remote and rugged environments.
Although commonly used as a children's pony, the Ariegeois Pony is more than capable of carrying a heavy adult over the most difficult of terrain.
Tony Blair, Prime Minister of Great Britain, was gifted an Ariegeois Pony in 1977 as a way to promote the breed. He has been a constant visitor to the area for vacations.
The Ariegeois Pony is traditionally herded up the mountains for the summer months, with breeders seeing this as a chance for the foals to develop their athletic ability and sure-footedness. These horses are naturally well adjusted to living outside and are not stabled, seeming to enjoy the cold weather.
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