The Welsh Stud Book

The Welsh Pony and Cob Society was established in 1901 by landowners, farmers and those interested in the Welsh Breeds, who recognised the importance of documenting and recording the pedigrees of Welsh Ponies and Cobs.  In 1902, the Society published the first volume of the Welsh Stud Book, which, today contains the breeding details of four 'Sections' of Welsh Pony/Cob:

• Section A, the Welsh Mountain Pony, not exceeding 121.9 cm (12 h.h.)
• Section B, the Welsh Pony, not exceeding 137.2 cm (13.2 h.h.)
• Section C, the Welsh Pony (Cob Type), not exceeding 137.2 cm (13.2 h.h.)
• Section D, the Welsh Cob, over 137.2 cm (13.2 h.h.) no upper limit

There is also a Welsh Part-Bred Register recorded in the Stud Book, for horses and ponies with not less than 12.5% of registered Welsh blood in their parentage.

The success of the Society is due both to the foresight of the founders and to the excellent inherent attributes of Welsh Ponies and Cobs. Their versatility, superior performance, hardiness and kind, loyal nature make them the first choice of pony or horse for all.

Britain's native breeds are the envy of the world, having some of the purest genetic pools for breeding to be found anywhere. It is vital that the Welsh breeds are maintained in a pure form to enable future generations to enjoy this legacy entrusted to the Society members, the custodians of Welsh Ponies and Cobs.

The semi-feral Welsh Mountain Pony, thought by many to be the basis of the Welsh Stud Book, faces ever-increasing threats to survival on its native heath and needs support. Widely acknowledged as the World's most beautiful pony, it is essential that the traditional hill breeding of these Mountain Ponies continues.

The Society is a registered charity and company limited by guarantee.