Buyer question
Is a Pony of the Americas horse good for beginners?
Yes: our Animal Library rates the Pony of the Americas horse 4 out of 5 for beginners (good youth mount).
Source: the Pony of the Americas horse page in the Everybarn Animal Library. Pony of the Americas horse in the Animal Library
The detail
An American pony breed begun in Iowa in 1954 from a Shetland and Appaloosa cross, with Appaloosa coloring. POAs are sturdy, versatile and sized for young riders who have outgrown small ponies.
- Temperament
- Steady, willing, friendly
- Best fit
- Children and youth riders
- Trainability
- 4 out of 5 (Willing to learn)
- Upkeep
- 3 out of 5 (Eye care, weight watch)
- Energy
- 3 out of 5 (Versatile, sensible)
What to weigh
POAs share the Appaloosa’s higher risk of recurrent uveitis, and ponies are prone to laminitis. Eye checks and diet control are part of ownership.