Welsh Cob (Section D)

Overview

The Welsh Cob is Section D of the Welsh Stud Book. The breed description asks for an animal that is "strong, hardy and active, with pony character and as much substance as possible", over 13.2 hh with no upper height limit. The breed society calls it the "best ride and drive animal in the World" and credits it with courage, tractability and endurance.

History

References in early Welsh literature suggest the Welsh Cob was established and recognised as a breed by the 15th century. For centuries cobs were used as draught horses and family transport, valued for their strength and endurance, until motor cars and tractors arrived.

The cob has been in the Welsh Stud Book since the Welsh Pony and Cob Society was formed in 1901, and its description has changed little. The height limits have varied: early on, from a minimum of 14.2 hh to a maximum of 15.2 hh. By 1950 the description had been refined to a minimum of 13.2 hh and no upper limit. As the need for draught and transport animals declined, the cob found a new role as a family horse.

Breed standard

• Height: over 137.2 cm (13.2 hh), with no upper limit.
• Colour: any colour, except piebald and skewbald.
• Head: full of quality and pony character; a coarse head and Roman nose are objectionable. Eyes bold, prominent and set wide apart; ears neat and well set.
• Body: back and loins muscular, strong and well coupled; deep through the heart and well ribbed up. Hindquarters lengthy and strong, with the tail well set on.
• Limbs: forelegs set square with long, strong forearms and well-developed knees; large, flat, clean hocks; well-shaped feet with dense hoofs. A moderate amount of silky feather is acceptable, but coarse, wiry hair is objectionable.
• Action: free, true and forcible. In trot the knee bends and the whole foreleg extends straight from the shoulder and as far forward as possible, with the hocks flexed under the body.

Temperament and uses

With a deep body, strong limbs and straight, free, powerful action, the Welsh Cob is a versatile animal: a hunter, a harness horse and a performance horse. Welsh Cobs have had considerable success in international driving. The breed society describes them as quiet enough for younger family members to ride, yet able to carry an adult.

Health and management

Native ponies evolved to live on sparse grazing. Research at the Royal Veterinary College notes that ponies tend to be more insulin resistant than horses, which makes them more prone to equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). This trait is genetic, probably an adaptation to harsh environments, and on richer grazing it leads to obesity, EMS and a higher risk of laminitis. World Horse Welfare names obesity as the biggest risk factor for EMS, and says insulin testing is a valuable way to assess the risk of laminitis and EMS in native breeds. Keep an eye on weight and body condition, and ask your vet about testing.