Introduction
A lead rein show pony is a type of show pony that is ridden on a lead rein by young children. These ponies are bred to be small and have a calm, gentle nature that makes them ideal for children to ride. In this article, we will explore the world of lead rein show ponies, including their history, characteristics, and how to care for them.
History of Lead Rein Show Ponies
Lead rein show ponies have been around for hundreds of years. They were initially bred for use in hunting parties and were trained to carry small children on their backs. In the 19th century, these ponies became popular in the show ring, where they were shown ridden on a lead rein by young children.
Today, lead rein show ponies are a popular choice for young children who want to compete in the show ring. They are available in a wide range of breeds and colors and are bred specifically for their gentle nature and ability to carry young riders.
Characteristics of Lead Rein Show Ponies
Lead rein show ponies are typically between 11 and 13 hands high, with a weight of around 400-500kg. They are bred to be small and compact, with a short back and a broad chest. They have a calm, gentle nature that makes them ideal for children to ride and handle.
Lead rein show ponies are typically trained to be ridden on a lead rein, which is a rein that is attached to the pony's bridle and held by the child's parent or handler. This allows the child to have control over the pony's speed and direction, while also providing a level of safety and security.
Breeds of Lead Rein Show Ponies
Lead rein show ponies can be found in a wide range of breeds, including Welsh, Shetland, Dartmoor, and New Forest. Each breed has its own unique characteristics, but all are bred to be small, gentle, and easy to handle.
Welsh ponies are one of the most popular breeds for lead rein showing, with the Welsh Section A and B being particularly popular. These ponies are known for their hardiness, intelligence, and good temperament.
Shetland ponies are also a popular choice for lead rein showing. They are known for their hardiness and ability to thrive in harsh environments. They are also very intelligent and have a strong sense of loyalty to their owners.
Caring for Lead Rein Show Ponies
Lead rein show ponies require regular care and maintenance to keep them healthy and happy. They should be fed a balanced diet of hay, grass, and grain, and should have access to fresh water at all times.
They should be groomed regularly to keep their coat clean and healthy, and should have their hooves trimmed every 6-8 weeks. They should also be checked regularly for signs of illness or injury, and any issues should be addressed promptly by a qualified veterinarian.
Training Lead Rein Show Ponies
Training a lead rein show pony requires patience, consistency, and time. The pony should be introduced to the lead rein slowly and gradually, with short sessions that gradually increase in length.
The pony should also be introduced to different environments and situations, such as the show ring, so that they become comfortable and confident in all situations. They should also be trained to respond to basic commands, such as stop, go, and turn.
Showing Lead Rein Show Ponies
Showing a lead rein show pony requires careful preparation and attention to detail. The pony should be well-groomed and presented in a clean and tidy manner. The child should be dressed in appropriate show attire, including a riding hat, jacket, jodhpurs, and boots.
The pony should be ridden in a calm and controlled manner, with the child demonstrating good posture and control. The pony should also be shown in its best light, with its strengths highlighted and any weaknesses minimized.
Conclusion
Lead rein show ponies are a wonderful choice for young children who want to compete in the show ring. They are bred to be small, gentle, and easy to handle, and require regular care and maintenance to keep them healthy and happy. With the right training and preparation, lead rein show ponies can provide a lifetime of enjoyment for both children and adults alike.
