What is the best pony (or small horse) breed for a child?

Bride of Squidward: What is the best pony (or small horse) breed for a child?
I would like to get my 2 boys (ages 4 and 6) a pony, but have heard Shetlands can be very cantankerous. Any suggestions for a small, gentle (and not outrageously expensive) breed suitable for children and beginning riders?

Answers and Views:

Answer by emzy2
welsh A ponies are a very good all rounder and are generally easy to ride for little ones. they are around 11hh- 12.2hh. i suggest going for an older, more experienced pony about 8 or above they tend to be calmer. maybe consider an ex riding school pony, if you hear of any been sold they done it all.
hope you find one suitable for your boys

Answer by aussiebrat
yes shetlands can be a bit naughty, but they aren’t all that bad, when buying one ask for a 2 week trial, so you can see how he behave’s welsh mountain ponys are a little taller but with better temprement

Answer by Momo
Shetlands don’t act THAT bad… But ask for time to check the horse out, see how it bonds with your children, all of that… This way you can see how the horse behaves, because just like people, not all horses are the same.

Answer by Everbely
Breed is not as important as how well the pony fits your children. Both of my children, myself and my grandson, all started riding on Shetlands. You can’t beat a good one but they can be hard to find. Depending on where you live other breeds may be more common and easier to find. Expect to pay a lot for a really good pony. Personally, I like mares as I think they tend to take care of their rider much more so than geldings. Most ponies around here aren’t registered and are of a mix of pony and horse breeds. Find something you like that is already being used by small children successfully. Don’t take your boys with you as they’ll fall for each and every pony they see.

Answer by horse lover 101
Welsh ponies are a nice breed of pony. They are great tempered. But if you want to ride this horse I suggest a kentucky mountain saddle horse. I have one that’s a little over 14 hands. They are usually small but can carry lots of weight. They are also gaited which means they have a 4-beat running walk which is much smoother than a trot. They are great beginner horses and are easier to stay on. Hope this helps. 🙂