The Shetland pony originated on the cluster of Scottish islands located off the East coast of Norway, known as the Shetland Islands. These hardy, sturdy ponies were first introduced to the United States in the 1800s and have since been selectively bred for refinement resulting in a sturdy but elegant show pony. Today there are four types of American Shetland ponies recognized by the breed’s registry here in the United States. All Shetlands, regardless of type, average approximately 9.3 hands (or 39 inches), but must never exceed 11.2 hands (or 46 inches) in height, and they can be found in any color. Shetland ponies are well-suited to the performance demands of pony hunters, carriage driving, modern fine harness, and roadster driving.