The official definition of a pony is a horse with a shoulder height (the distance from the shoulder to the ground) of 147 cm or less. Because of their small size, they are also called a mini horse. They live mainly on pasture and grass; they also eat grains and feed. Because of their small size, they do not eat much.

Breeding usually takes place in late spring and early summer. During this period, the males fight each other for females. After mating, the ponies are born next spring.

Pony horses have strong limbs.They can carry heavier things than other horses do. They also have stronger adaptability. Therefore, the pony horses have been used to transport cargo in mountainous areas. In Europe and America nowadays, ponies have lived with people and become children's playmates.

Ponies now have a new identity--they serve as guide horses. Ponies' friendly personality, great learning ability, and nearly 360-degree vision range provide aid to visually-impaired people.