Hackney Horse and Pony
Average Size: Hackney Horse: 14-15.3 hh (56-63 in), Hackney Pony: Up to 14 hh (56 in)
Breed: Hackney Horse and Pony

The Hackney breed encompasses both the horse and the pony varieties. Though both breeds share the same studbook, they are distinctly different, and the Hackney Pony is still a pony, both in conformation and character. The Hackney Horse was originally developed from the trotting Roadster breeds of Yorkshire and Norfolk, while the pony wasn't developed until the nineteenth century and then based on a cross of Fells and small Hackney Horses.

Both breeds have shoulders designed to take a harness – they are strong and low withered. The wither is the highest point of a horse's “shoulders” and if they are too broad or flat, they can make harnessing difficult. When showing, the Hackneys wear what is called a “stallion in-hand showing harness” that allows for side reins or a crupper to be attached. A crupper is a loop that passes under the tail, forcing the horse to carry its tail high.

The Hackneys are also famous for their gait, which is simply a very refined and stylish movement, but also easy and relaxed. The hock joints, those are the “knees” on the hind legs, are low, which helps along the horse's famous action. Their movement's notoriety can be credited partially to breeding, but also years of skilled training.

Today, both the Hackney Horse and the Hackney Pony are bred all over the world, and have become particularly popular in North America. The Hackney Pony is normally just for the show ring, but the Hackney Horse is a popular carriage driver, known for its stamina and ability to hold a trot for long stretches.

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Hackney and Pony - Horses for Sale