Horse breeds / Landais pony
Photo: Eponimm · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Horse breed
Landais pony
The Landais pony comes from the Landes de Gascogne region in southwestern France, a flat, sandy, pine-forested area near the Atlantic coast. Historically it was a practical working animal, used by shepherds and farmers in the region and valued for its ability to cover rough, boggy ground and to handle long days of work with little feed.
Landais ponies are generally sturdy, willing and sensible, with a calm nature that suits many riders. They are often described as surefooted and economical in their movement, making them enjoyable for trail riding, light driving and gentle riding. Their size and steady temperament can make them a reasonable choice for many beginners, though individual ponies vary, so an experienced eye at purchase is worthwhile.
Day to day, a Landais needs regular turnout with room to move, a consistent routine of work or exercise, and ideally the company of other horses. They do best when kept as herd animals and given enough attention to stay engaged and content, rather than left isolated in a stall.
Good for: First-time owners, trail riders, light driving
| Size | small |
| Weight | 397–551 lb |
| Height | 47–55 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 45 min a day |
| Shedding | moderate |
| Origin | France |
Landais ponies are easy keepers, so managing diet and weight is essential from the start.
Living with a Landais pony
Exercise
Landais ponies need regular daily work and access to turnout to stay fit and content. Too little exercise can lead to weight gain, boredom and behavior problems, and can increase the risk of metabolic issues.
Grooming
The coat is typically dense and weather-resistant, with a noticeable winter coat in cooler months. Regular brushing keeps the mane and tail tidy, and hooves need routine trimming or shoeing. Clipping is usually only needed for horses that are worked hard in winter.
At home
Landais ponies are hardy and generally cope well with outdoor living year round, provided they have shelter from wind and wet and access to fresh water. Most do well with substantial turnout rather than long periods in a stall. They are happiest in a small herd. As a rule they are easy keepers, so grazing and a basic forage diet often suffice, but weight should be monitored closely.
Training
Landais ponies tend to learn steadily and respond well to patient, consistent handling. They are often good at trail riding, light dressage, driving and general pleasure work. A green Landais should be expected to progress at a measured pace, with good manners and a willing attitude, though it may take time to build confidence and fitness.
Health
Like many pony breeds, Landais ponies may be prone to conditions linked to weight and diet, such as laminitis and metabolic problems. Ask a veterinarian about breed-specific risks and an appropriate care plan for your individual pony.
- Laminitis
- Obesity
- Metabolic syndrome
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Landais pony
Forage and water, adult
7–12 lb of hay a day
Forage at 1.5–2.5% of body weight at 397–551 lb, and 4–8 gallons of water, more in heat and on hay alone. Grain only for the work being done.
What a year costs
$2,050–$3,750
Hay about $832, plus farrier every 6–8 weeks, routine vet, dental and dewormer. Board, lessons and showing on top; US averages.
Weather
Watch above 80°F, stop at 90°F
Blanket or shelter below 10°F. Horses mind heat more than cold: with shelter and water most are fine to about 10°F unclipped, and above a heat index of 150 (air °F + humidity %) ride early or not at all.
Where a Landais pony is comfortable
Easy most of the year: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Washington, DC, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Summer needs care (early rides, shade, fans): Arizona, Nevada, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah.
Winter needs care (blanket, shelter, water that is not frozen): North Dakota.
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 Landais pony
Shelters and breed rescues list Landais ponys and Landais pony mixes every week. Search adoptable Landais ponys on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a Landais pony right for you?
- Yes if you want a sturdy, sensible pony for trail riding.
- Yes if you have enough space for good turnout daily.
- Yes if you enjoy a calm, willing partner for gentle work.
- Think twice if you plan to keep a pony alone with little company.
- Think twice if you need a horse that is easy to feed well.
Questions owners ask
Are Landais ponies good for beginners?
Many are calm and sensible, which suits some beginners. Individual temperament varies, so an experienced person should assess any pony before purchase.
How much does a Landais pony cost?
Prices vary with age, training and availability in your region. Breeders and sales listings are the best sources for current pricing.
How tall is a Landais pony?
Landais ponies are typically around 120 to 140 centimetres at the withers, roughly 12 to 13.5 hands.
How long do Landais ponies live?
With good care, they often live into their mid to late twenties or beyond. Regular veterinary and dental care supports a longer life.
Are Landais ponies easy keepers?
Yes, they tend to gain weight easily on rich grazing, so owners should monitor condition and limit access to lush pasture.
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.