Horse breeds / Highland pony
Photo: Velvet · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Horse breed
Highland pony
The Highland pony comes from the rugged Highlands and islands of Scotland, where it was developed over centuries as a hardy working animal. Crofters and drovers relied on it to carry loads, pull carts and plough the thin soils of the hills, and it was valued for its sure footing on steep, boggy ground. Its strength and stamina came from living outdoors in harsh weather with little shelter or feed.
Today the Highland is known as a steady, good-natured pony with a willing attitude and a calm, sensible head. It has a comfortable, sure-footed way of going that suits trail riding, and many owners find it a reliable choice for children and adults alike. Its size and sturdy build let it carry an adult rider, though it is not a fast or flashy performer.
Day to day, a Highland does best with regular turnout, a bit of work and plenty of companionship. It is happiest living with other horses and needs routine handling so its good manners stay intact. Because it is so hardy, it copes well with weather, but it still needs a healthy diet and regular hoof and veterinary care.
Good for: First-time owners, trail riders, families
| Size | large |
| Weight | 1047–1213 lb |
| Height | 53–58 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 45 min a day |
| Shedding | heavy |
| Origin | Scotland |
Highlands are easy keepers, so watch their weight closely on rich grass to avoid laminitis.
Living with a Highland pony
Exercise
A healthy adult Highland typically needs a daily mix of turnout and ridden or in-hand work. Regular movement keeps it fit and helps manage weight. With too little exercise, it can become overweight and bored, which may lead to behavior problems.
Grooming
Highlands have a thick double coat that sheds heavily in spring. They have a dense, full mane and tail that usually need little more than gentle detangling. Hooves need regular trimming or shoeing, and most Highlands are not clipped.
At home
Highlands are very hardy and often do well with generous turnout, including through winter, with access to shelter. They can be prone to weight gain on rich grass, so many owners limit grazing and keep an eye on condition. They are happiest in a herd and should not be kept alone. Most are easy keepers, needing good forage and a modest amount of supplementary feed.
Training
Highlands are intelligent, willing and quick to learn when training is calm and consistent. They are well suited to trail riding, driving, in-hand work and light dressage or western-style riding. A green Highland is usually patient and forgiving, though it can be stubborn if pushed too hard. Expect steady, gradual progress rather than rapid results.
Health
Highlands are often hardy, but some lines are prone to weight-related problems, including laminitis and metabolic issues. Some are also associated with conditions that affect muscle and movement. Ask your vet about screening, diet and any signs to watch for in your own horse.
- Laminitis
- Metabolic issues
- Obesity
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Highland pony
Forage and water, adult
17–28 lb of hay a day
Forage at 1.5–2.5% of body weight at 1047–1213 lb, and 10–18 gallons of water, more in heat and on hay alone. Grain only for the work being done.
What a year costs
$3,150–$5,350
Hay about $1,971, plus farrier every 6–8 weeks, routine vet, dental and dewormer. Board, lessons and showing on top; US averages.
Weather
Watch above 75°F, stop at 85°F
Blanket or shelter below 0°F. A heavy coat and a big body hold heat: this type copes with real cold and struggles first in humid summer heat; clip and shade before you blanket.
Where a Highland pony is comfortable
Easy most of the year: Alaska, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Summer needs care (early rides, shade, fans): Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, DC.
From typical July highs and January lows by state and this breed's heat and cold limits. Shade, shelter and water change everything; this is about turnout and work.
Right now
Latest feed recalls
Multiple Brand Names: Chicken Feed, Swine Feed, Cattle Feed, Horse Feed
ADM Animal Nutrition · Apr 1 · Specific lots may contain elevated levels of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium and/or chloride and may harm chickens, swine, beef cattle and equine.
Rescue a Highland pony
Shelters and breed rescues list Highland ponys and Highland pony mixes every week. Search adoptable Highland ponys on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a Highland pony right for you?
- Yes if you want a calm, sure-footed trail partner
- Yes if you have space for turnout and a herd companion
- Yes if you enjoy driving or in-hand work
- Think twice if you want a fast, showy performance horse
- Think twice if you have a limited feed budget for an easy keeper
Questions owners ask
Is the Highland pony good for beginners?
Yes, many Highlands are calm, steady and sensible, which makes them a good choice for first-time owners when paired with good instruction and patient handling.
How much does a Highland pony cost?
Prices vary widely by age, training and bloodline. Speak with reputable breeders and rescues in your area for current figures.
How tall is a Highland pony?
Highlands typically stand around 135 to 147 cm at the withers, roughly 13.2 to 14.2 hands, though individual horses vary.
How long do Highland ponies live?
Highlands commonly live into their mid to late twenties with good care, diet and veterinary attention.
Are Highland ponies easy keepers?
Yes, they thrive on modest feed and can gain weight easily, so careful management of grass and feed is important.
Similar breeds
Written by Hoofdeck editors · updated Nov 13, 2026 · facts from Wikidata and Wikimedia Commons; health notes are general veterinary guidance, not a diagnosis.