Working with, riding or training a Welsh Pony really is a wonderful experience. No matter which type of Welsh Pony or Welsh Cob Pony type you are working with the outstanding temperament is one of intelligence willingness to work and learn as well as what many describe as a sense of humor. These ponies can be a bit cheeky and independent and do best when handled consistently and firmly in training. Welsh Ponies should never be trained using any type of negative or punishment based training as they will respond very well to positive, training and rewards. The Welsh Pony really enjoys being around people and doing what the rider or handler wants. While enjoying a carrot or bit of a treat, these horses will also respond just as much to a word of praise and gentle pat for a job well done.
Handling the Welsh Pony foal should begin as early as possible to allow the foal to understand and become bonded with people. These ponies are extremely friendly even as foals so just gentle handling including grooming and routine foot care is all that is needed. When the Welsh foal is weaned they will often bond very strongly with family members and can be almost dog like in their love of human attention. The Welsh is not a docile or slow moving pony however. They are very energetic and active, making ideal jumping ponies, pleasure riding ponies, show ponies and harness ponies. They are known to be willing to give their all for a rider they trust and this trait, combined with their high level of athletic ability makes them an ideal competitive pony in almost any type of equestrian event.
Training the Welsh Pony can be done as soon as the pony is physically ready, usually by about the two year mark. At that time Welsh ponies can be trained as driving or harness ponies, riding ponies or even both. The Welsh Pony also makes and ideal stock horse and has been used for cattle and sheep herding for centuries. Training needs to be a bit of a challenge as with any highly intelligent breed of horse of pony. The Welsh Pony can become bored with the same routine and may look for ways to spice up training, which can be seen as being difficult for the rider. Consider adding some pleasure riding or working using a different riding discipline to help provide variations in training. Many Welsh ponies make good basic dressage type horses and the dressage training helps with discipline, bonding the rider and the pony as well as the overall ability of the horse and rider.
Finally the Welsh Pony needs to have regular and routine care and attention. While a naturally hardy and strong breed they should be routinely checked for any health concerns, have routine foot care as well as worming, vaccinations and a yearly vet examination. By caring for the Welsh Pony and providing good rations and routine exercise the pony will live a long and healthy life.
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