Dales Pony History

The Dales Pony is a native British pony from the Dales region in northern England, near the Scottish Border where the lead mining industry was prevalent for centuries.  The lead produced in these mines needed to be transported from the mines to the ports on the coast, and fuel had to be taken back to the mines. These items were carried by native British ponies known as Jagger Galloways.  Over centuries, as improvements were made to the breed, the Jagger Galloways were replaced by the Scotch Galloway, then the Black Galloways, and eventually became the Dales Pony.  

The Dales Pony is a comfortable riding animal, strong enough for draft work and able to thrive on the harsh uplands of the dales. The farmers of the region recognized the value of these traits, and their ability to work the small farms effectively and efficiently.  Not only could they pull a heavy cart, they were sturdy shepherd’s ponies; covering the rough terrain of the fells while carrying burdens of hay, often with a rider and in deep snow. A team could work the fields, and take the farmer to market in style.  They were happy to participate in the local hunt, being willing jumpers.  Because of this incredible versatility, when the lead mining industry began to decline, the 

Dales Pony found a niche on the farms of the northern Dales region. During the late 1800's, thousands of Dales ponies could be found working in north England.  The early 1900’s saw a demand for town work and for the British Army, with the Dales Ponies serving overseas in both world wars.

The Second World War saw the ponies come into their own at home. With gasoline rationing and other shortages, they became vital to the running of the farms and were highly prized. The Dales breed came out of World War II in a strong position thanks to breeders who refused to believe the day of the heavy pony was over. 

Unfortunately, by the end of the 1950s, increasing mechanization meant that these special hard-working ponies had no role. A lack of work and an increase in cross-breeding nearly saw the end of the pony.    

In 1964, the Dales Pony Society was reorganized to preserve the breed. Ponies were registered and a Grading-up system was introduced for inspected ponies and the slow process of reclamation began.

The best type of Dales pony is still described as a “nice, tight little Clydesdale.”  Dales are well muscled, short coupled and deep through the chest with powerful hindquarters, plenty of dense flat bone and the very best of feet.  They can be black, brown, bay, grey, or roan; white markings are limited to stars, snips and hind fetlocks.  Average height is 14 to 14.2 Hands.

Today, the Dales Pony is still known for their versatility.  They easily carry heavy adults, and are kind enough to carry children. They have a bold but quiet temperament, great presence and courage. Due to their calm, sensible nature they are good in traffic, do not panic in awkward situations, and are extremely sure-footed. Their comfortable ride coupled with their energy, stamina, and determination make them favorites for trail and endurance.  Willing and clever jumpers, they compete in cross-country, driving classes, and dressage.

With just 128 foals registered with the Dales Pony Society in 2024, the Dales Pony is listed by the Rare Breed Survival Trust in the UK as "Priority” which is the highest risk category.   The exact number of Dales Ponies worldwide is difficult to determine due to incomplete reporting to the registry, but fewer than 3,000 foals have been registered since 1999. 

The courage, steady calmness, and fortitude of today’s Dales Pony makes it a perfect choice for the entire family.  Whether put to cart or ridden under saddle, for pleasure or for work, the Dales pony is still known for its great versatility and its well-earned title - the Great All-Rounder.