Horse sharing

The delightful Lewitzer Pony breed emerged in the 1970s. They are noted for their friendly, sensible temperaments, which encourage people to buy a Lewitzer as a first riding pony for their children. Larger Lewitzers are suitable for teenagers and small adults, too. When vendors sell a Lewitzer it is likely to have attractive coat markings, since that is one of the characteristics of the breed. For those looking to buy a smart, sensible family pony to give children confidence in riding, the Lewitzer is a good choice.

Use and characteristics of Lewitzers

The striking coat colours of many of these charming ponies are one of their greatest assets for those planning to sell a Lewitzer. Piebald and skewbald are found most often, but there are also beautifully marked, spotted individuals and no coat colours are disbarred. The advantage for those considering whether to buy a Lewitzer is that the ponies are available in a range of sizes from 10.3 hands high (43 inches/109 cm) to 14.1 hands high (57 inches/142 cm). Three categories of Lewitzer exist and each is height-based. The first category includes Lewitzers from 10.3 to 12 hands high (42 inches/107 cm) and the ponies clearly show Shetland influence. The second covers ponies from 12 hands high to 13 hands high (52 inches/132 cm), which are suitable for riding, driving and other working activities. Ponies over this height are suitable for teenagers and older riders.

Origin and history of breeding Lewitzers

The Lewitzer, also known as the Lewitz, was bred from the start to be a sensible, robust riding pony for children. To this end, breeders in the GDR in the 1970s selected from a wide range of breeds to obtain the best qualities of each of them. Breeds that were chosen included Shetland and Fjord mares, which were crossed with Arab, Thoroughbred and Trakehner stallions. This meant that the ponies had grace as well as robustness, and sensible natures as well as a light and rhythmic way of moving. This combination of a friendly and willing nature, as well as refinement of appearance, makes the Lewitzers very appealing as family ponies. Several breeders have now chosen to specialise in the piebald and skewbald colouring, which looks very alluring on such graceful animals.

The ponies are sometimes described as more horse-like in appearance, with the muscled and sloping shoulders that are found in good riding horses, and elegance of movement. Their noses have a slight tendency to be concave and their eyes are large and dark. The overall outline is balanced and harmonious. The Lewitzer is a good example of a pony that will be at ease taking several generations of learner riders through their first steps in riding. Their movement and colouring make them equally at home in the show ring as on pleasure rides. They are characterful ponies without being challenging and bond closely with their young riders and their families. There’s a good deal of choice when it comes to size and conformation too, given the range of breeds used in the creation of the Lewitzer. The lightness of movement, with good impulsion from the hindquarters, will also appeal to young riders who like a pony that is forward-going and responsive.

Lewitzers in equestrianism

Being easy to keep and train, Lewitzers can take part in many events that young people enjoy, from shows to pleasure rides and jumping. They also make good driving ponies, either singly, in pairs or in larger teams. Although current populations remain relatively small, their reputation as gentle and willing ponies with intelligence and all-round potential means they are likely to increase in popularity. Whatever their conformation or size, every Lewitzer is bred for the good nature that is characteristic of the breed. The smaller ponies, being more Shetland-like, yet also elegant, are ideal for leading rein classes. The quality and temperament of the Lewitzer make it a good choice for any modern family of pony-lovers.