Spiti Pony
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Spiti | |
|---|---|
| Country of origin: | India |
| Common nicknames: | "Indian Country Bred" |
| Breed standards | |
| Notes | |
| Smaller version of the Bhutia Pony | |
The Spiti Pony originated in the Himalayan region of India, and today is bred in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh. It is similar to the Bhutia Pony and the native Tibetan Pony, as these animals have been interbred for years so that many of the individual characteristics have been lost, and are now all categorized as "Indian Country Bred."
Suited to mountainous climate and terrain, they are not as able to endure humidity and heat. Lack of nutritious grasses generally affects the growth and development of the ponies, although they have become incredibly tough and self-sufficient, requiring little fodder. The conformation of these ponies is usually not superior. They have a large head and pronounced jaw, short neck, low withers, sloping quarters, and deep chest. The shoulder is a bit straight and upright, the legs, although short, are very strong. The ponies usually never get taller than 12 hh. They are usually gray or dun in color, although they may be any solid color.
The ponies are kept mainly for work, mainly as pack ponies and sometimes for riding, to which their stamina and endurance serves them well. They generally have a willing and quiet temperament, although a few may be less-reliable.
