A cob is traditionally a draft type pony. Typically of a stout build, with strong bones, large joints, and steady disposition, it is a body type of horse rather than a specific breed. Historically, in the United Kingdom and, to a lesser extent, the eastern United States, a "cob" may be a common horse used for everyday riding but in the past was used for driving carts.
The term continues to be widely used to describe this type of horse in the United Kingdom, but less so in North America. In the United States, the term "cob" is primarily used to describe the Welsh cob, and in the sizing of bridles for horses, designating a smaller size that will fit not only the Welsh cob, but also many Morgans, Arabians, some American Quarter Horses, and other horses with short, triangular-shaped heads.
In general terms, cobs are larger than ponies, standing or taller, but are relatively small and compact, usually with somewhat short legs. The breed of horse known today as the Section D Welsh cob exemplifies the classic build of the historic cob. It is said that a good show cob should have "the head of a lady and the backside of a cook".[1]
Popular uses of the cob include driving, showing and recreational riding. Cob-type breeds have become increasingly popular for Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), as well as for riders who seek horses who are responsive but with a calm temperament, shorter stature and steady, comfortable gaits.
The rulebook of the British Show Horse Association (BHSA), states: "The Cob is a type rather than a breed. A short-legged animal exceeding 148cm (58inches) with a maximum height of 155cm (61inches), it has bone and substance with quality and is capable of carrying a substantial weight ... Cobs should have sensible heads, (sometimes roman nosed), a full generous eye, shapely neck crested on the top, with a hogged mane and well defined wither ... The Cob should also have clean, strong hocks and all the attributes of a good hunter."[2]
Show cobs in the United Kingdom are overseen by the British Show Horse Association (BSHA), formerly known as The British Show Hack, Cob and Riding Horse Association. Cobs are registered in three divisions: lightweight, heavyweight, and Maxi Cob. The classes where cobs are shown also have a similar breakdown:
Maxi Cobs are treated a bit differently from other divisions. The highest placed animals qualify for the Maxi Cob final at the National Championship show. Winners of these classes are not eligible for open cob championships.
Cobs are exhibited with manes hogged, legs trimmed, and pulled tails and may be ridden astride or sidesaddle.
Working cob classes may also be held, where the horses must jump a series of fences and then demonstrate their paces on the flat in a manner similar to the requirements in British Working Hunter classes.
Fence heights for novice classes are minimum 2'3", maximum 2'6", with a maximum spread 2'6". In open classes, fences are 2'6"–2'9", maximum spread 2'9". The height of the jumps may be raised at the National Championship Show at the discretion of the course builder or show director.
As with all horse showing disciplines, riders who exhibit cobs are required to conform to strict rules for personal attire.
A number of cob breeds are popular in the UK, including the Welsh cob and the Gypsy Cob, also known as the "Coloured Cob" or "Irish Cob", known in the US as the Gypsy Vanner Horse.[3]
See also: Welsh pony. The breed of horse known as the Section D Welsh cob exemplifies the typical build of the traditional cob. In competition, unlike most other cobs, these animals are shown with full manes and tails.
See also: Gypsy horse. Traditional or "Gypsy" cobs are classed as coloured horses/ponies if they have 2 colours to their coat on their body, neck and legs above socks. Originally a favourite of Romany travellers, who used them to pull caravans, they are now used for driving, dressage, showing, and even jumping.
See also: Norman Cob. The Norman cob or Cob Normand is a breed of light draft horse that originated in the province of Normandy in northern France.