Merens Pony

Named after a village close to Andorra, Merens Ponies are gentle, economical and hardy horses.  Their history is rich, and includes being faithful companions to the mountain farmers, "Montagnol", and to soldiers in the Middle Ages as well as during the Russian campaign with Napoleon.

Currently, Merens ponies are used for farming, helping to plow and haul fields.  They have sure footing that enables them to work well on steep hillsides.  They are at ease in a harness and with riders, and have a gentle disposition that makes the Merens Ponies great children's horses. The ponies are willing to work, but are quite strong in character so the trainers and owners must be firm with them. 

The ponies are typically raised outside all year round, and foals are born during the spring snows without difficulty.  As the weather turns warm, in June, herds are led to summer pastures to enjoy freedom for months at a time in the mountains.  It is said that this time in the mountains with other Merens ponies is what gives the breed their outstanding mental balance.

Merens Ponies are all very similar in appearance, black in color, and only a few have white markings.  They are strong enough to carry an adult rider and gentle enough to work with children.  They are often exported to Germany, Italy, Tunisia and the Netherlands.  Sometimes, the breed is bred in other regions throughout France, but authentic Merens Ponies are those that have run free in the Pyrenees.  The breed is quite rare.