Horses

Occasionally, a Quarter Horse does not reach the minimum height of 14 hands at maturity. While many are registered with AQHA anyway and simply not reported as being too small, this phenomenon may originally have led to the foundation of registries for the Quarter Pony. These ponies seem to bridge really well the gap between small ponies like the Shetland and horses of regular stock size, although a 14 hands Quarter Horse would surely do the trick, too, for most youth and small adults. 

There have been several registries for Quarter Ponies over the years, and they seem to invariably not insist on AQHA registration of the parents of a candidate, but rather go by type and measurements. One existing registry appears to view itself as the organization for the original stock type Quarter Horse, as opposed to the modern taller and leaner one. The Quarter Pony in their philosophy represents more the old bulldog type Quarter Horse. Another registry recognizes outcross breeds, namely, Quarter Horse, American Paint Horse, Appaloosa, and POA (Pony of the Americas). This makes it obvious that they do not discriminate against any white markings, and a horse with one parent registered in any of these outcross registries is automatically eligible for registration.

Quarter Ponies are required to measure between a maximum of 58 inches and a minumum of 46 inches and they must exhibit stock type characteristics. AQHA registration is not a requirement, but it does guarantee eligibility for registration as a Quarter Pony if meeting the height requirements and the registration is not marked as having an undesirable trait that is uncharacteristic of the Quarter Horse breed. The height requirements overlap that of AQHA, so many Quarter Horses could actually be double-registered.

Quarter Ponies ideally exhibit the same characteristics that made the Quarter Horse such a popular and versatile breed. Emphasis is place on good minds, a well-balanced conformation, and agile speed. While they are great mounts for children or beginners, they are definitely also well-suited for adults and experienced riders.