Shetland Pony Driving Advice

[IanT68]

Hi guys
What would you consider to be an acceptable distance to drive a Shetland (not miniature) pony. Pretty much flat level roads etc., certainly not hilly where we live

 

[Nudibranch]

Depends on the fitness. If built up gradually then I'd have no problem with ten miles or so which is what mine used to do many years ago. But they must be conditioned like any other horse.

 

[rabatsa]

Driving a donkey as a single I would regularly be doing 60 miles a week, once fit be led by the condition of your ponies. Shetlands were bred to work.

 

[Leo Walker]

My HW cob does 5 to 8 miles twice a week most of it at a trot with the odd canter. He would easily do 30 miles if I had the time and inclination to get him fit enough to do that. Theres no reason you cant get your shetland fit enough to do as much as you want. They are incredibly tough!

My friend has a shetland cross falabella, so much daintier and he does driving trials. I think he did 16 miles one day!

 

[IanT68]

Thanks guys, pretty much confirmed what I was thinking

 

[Equi]

Just to confirm this all, my friends cob who was about 12hh so not awfully bigger than a standard, did 12miles at trot barely a sweat to be had. Obvioulsy he was fit for it, as he competed etc..