A 

pony is a type of small horse (Equus ferus caballus). Depending on the context, a

pony may be a horse that is under an approximate or exact height at the withers, or a

small horse with a specific conformation and temperament. Compared to a larger horse,

a pony may have a thicker coat, mane and tail, with proportionally shorter legs, a wider

barrel, heavier bone, a thicker neck and a shorter, broader head. The

word pony derives from the old French poulenet, meaning foal, a young, immature

horse.

Small horses and ponies were traditionally used for riding, driving and as pack beasts.

During the Industrial Revolution, particularly in Great Britain, many were used as pit

ponies, hauling loads of coal in the mines. In the modern era they may be kept as

children's mounts, for recreational or competitive riding or driving, or for cultural or

conservation reasons.