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Gotland Pony

Country of Origin: Sweden

Gotland Pony

Image from Kažemaks

Intro

Also called the Skogsruss & the Russ, the Gotland Pony is an ancient breed that is native to the Gotland island of Sweden. In fact, prior to the 1950’s the Baltic & the Gotland were the only ponies bred in Sweden.

Gotland Pony

Image from hemingway242

Origins

The breed has existed in Scotland since the Stone Age, and comes from the ancient northern European forest horse. They have changed very little since the stone age and are similar in characteristics to the Exmoor pony, it’s often difficult to tell apart.

Named for the Goth people who were known as great travelers & warriors, the Goths were nomads and used these ponies to carry their homes & family with them wherever they invaded next. It is believed that many of the pony breeds found in northern & western European countries have some Gotland in their lineage.

It wasn’t until the economic boom of the 1980’s that there was a renewed interest in hobby horses & the Gotland became fashionable again.

Features

Average height 11.2 – 13 hands

Physique

Head has a straight profile
Ears are small & alert
Eyes are large & lively
Neck is short & muscular
Back is long & straight
Legs are strong with solid joints
Hooves are strong & hard

Traditional Colors

Predominately dun but come in all colors.

Temperament

Good tempered & multi-faceted

Gotland Pony

Image from Malene

Use

Children’s mount
Light agriculture
Racing

Gotland Pony Products

Helpful Links

* all links open in a new window
Gotland Russ Association of North America

Where to Buy

Kokovoko Gotland Ponies

Video

Do you have images or know more about the Gotland Pony breed? I’d love help completing this page, please contact me to get involved.

Country of Origin: Sweden | Colors:
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