One of the most common questions in winter is whether your pony needs a rug, and the answer isn’t always what you’d expect!
Ponies are actually really good at keeping themselves warm. They grow thick winter coats that trap warm air close to their skin, a bit like a built-in duvet. Native breeds like New Forest ponies, Welsh ponies, and Dartmoors are especially tough and can often live out without a rug at all, even in cold weather.
The best way to check if your pony is warm enough is to feel underneath their rug or behind their ears. If they feel warm there, they’re fine. If they feel cold and are shivering, they might need an extra layer.
A pony that is clipped, very young, very old, or unwell will need more help staying warm than a healthy native pony with a full coat. When in doubt, ask your instructor or stable manager; they’ll help you figure out what’s right for your pony.
