English Cob

The English Cob is not a equine breed but a well known and established type of British horse.

It is a versatile and popular old fashion variety found all over the country.

An English Cob is a horse that has characteristics that exclude it from other breeds because of their strict conformity definitions. Cobs are usually the result of matches that yield a valuable horse of indeterminate qualities, being more of a result of chance breeding then anything else.

Cobs make great all round mounts and have always been a favourite of farmers, trainers and hunters. Their courage and strong quarters give them the ability to jump over farm fences easily. Many owners are very enthusiastic about them and they are showed in a class of their own.

An English Cob can usually be seen carrying more portly riders as their sizes tend to merge together, a feature of our popular society. They handle well and are also especially suited as mounts for more elderly riders and those who move at a leisurely pace. The Cob’s patience and easy going temperament along with its ability to travel docilely is especially favoured by those who have lost their agility.

English Cobs have pony type qualities of a small head, elegant neck, but with a short back with a large girth. Some describe them as short and fat with large quarters and very strong legs. They have sloped shoulders and a small cannon bone. Mostly they are compact and muscular with plenty of bone. Their temperament is described as good and well mannered. They carry their tails high as is typical of a riding horse.

There are two kinds of English Cobs – light weight and heavy weight. This distinction is noted when they are registered.