Dales Pony
The Dales Pony is a strong and hardy native breed from the northern counties of England, particularly Yorkshire and County Durham. Originally bred for carrying heavy loads in lead mining areas, it is known for its strength, stamina, and sure-footedness. Dales Ponies are compact yet powerful, with a deep body, strong legs, and abundant feathering on their lower limbs. They are most commonly black, though bay, brown, and grey can also occur. Their solid build allows them to carry substantial weight relative to their size. Known for their calm, intelligent, and willing temperament, Dales Ponies are suitable for both riding and driving. Today, they are valued for trekking, showing, and general riding, as well as for conservation grazing. Although considered a rare breed, efforts continue to preserve and promote this versatile and dependable pony.
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Masterclip HD Roamer Cordless Horse Clipper - Heavy Duty Clipper with Premium A2 Blades
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Hunter - Lightweight 200W Professional Horse Clipper
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Showmate II Cordless Horse Trimmer - Pink
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Masterclip 100G Transitional Turnout Rug - Waterproof & Breathable
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Masterclip 100G Stable Rug - Diamond Quilted Ideal Post Clip - Lightweight & Insulating
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Curved Scissors - Ideal for Tails
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Finishing Scissors - Ideal for Legs & All Show Prep
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Thinning Scissors - Ideal for Feathers, Mane & Tail
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Must Have LARGE Microfibre Cloth
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Honest Horse | Organic Hot Cloth Elixir Oil - 250ml
Fine blade 1.5mm:
- Suited to horses with fine coats and where a close finish is required to enable quick cooling in fast-paced sports such as racing, eventing, and endurance.
- Not suitable for pink-skinned horses as will reveal too much skin beneath the coat and leave them susceptible to sunburn.
- Not advised for use on other lighter coloured horses and novice clippers as imperfections are more visible on these coats.
- Will blunt more quickly if used on thicker/coarser coats.
- Matching blade for A5 small clipper = 10 or 10w
Medium blades 2.5mm:
- Suited to the majority of coat types and situations from warmbloods to natives and drafts, including Cushing's coats.
- May still be a little short for summer clipping of the majority white (pink-skinned) coloureds who would have to wear a UV sheet for sun protection.
- Matching blade for a5 small clipper = 8.5 or 8.5w
Coarse 4.5mm.
- This blade is a popular choice for late spring (early show season) and early autumn (pre HOYS) during the change of coat between winter and summer, particularly for native and cob types giving a tidy appearance but more length, giving a richer coat colour for a more natural look.
- This blade is not suited to clipping full, thick winter coats and would not help to keep the colour once the winter coat has come through fully.
- Top choice for summer clipping majority white coloured horses as is long enough to avoid revealing pink skin.
The teeth are set slightly further apart, so extra care must be taken around delicate areas where the skin may be wrinkled ie armpits, stifles, between forelegs.
Matching blade for a5 small clipper = 6fw
• Use a firm but considerate pressure when grooming—Dales Ponies are strong, hardy, and have thick coats.
• Pay special attention to the mane, tail, and feathering on the legs, keeping them clean, detangled, and dry.
• Their dense coat can trap dirt and moisture, so regular, thorough grooming is important.
• Take care over sensitive areas such as the withers, ribs, and legs.
• Regularly check for saddle and girth rubs, especially in working or ridden ponies.
• In wet or cold weather, their heavy coat and feathers can retain moisture, so ensure proper drying to prevent skin issues.
Get the pony ready
Make sure your Dales pony is clean, completely dry, and relaxed. Their dense, often oily coat can clog blades quickly, so thorough brushing to remove dirt and grease is especially important for a smooth, even clip.
Choose the right clippers (e.g. Masterclip range)
Using suitable clippers is key, particularly for native breeds like Dales ponies with thick winter coats:
• Heavy-duty clippers (e.g. Masterclip Hunter or HD Roamer) are best for tackling dense, coarse coats and full clips.
• Trimmers (e.g. Showmate) are ideal for finer areas like the face, legs, and finishing touches.
Masterclip offers cordless, mains-powered, and combo kits designed to handle everything from heavy native coats to precision trimming.
Gather your kit
You’ll need clippers, clipper oil, a brush, chalk (for marking lines), and possibly a helper. Most Masterclip kits include essentials like blades, oil, and a carry case.
Set up safely
Tie your pony in a quiet, well-lit area. Let them get used to the sound and vibration of the clippers. Dales ponies are generally sensible, but their size and strength mean calm handling is still important. Cordless clippers can help reduce noise and stress.
Start at the shoulder
Begin clipping on a less sensitive area like the shoulder. Use long, steady strokes against the direction of hair growth, keeping the clipper flat against the coat.
Work methodically
Clip in sections (neck → body → hindquarters). Because of their thick coat, you may need to go over some areas more than once. Slightly overlap each stroke to ensure an even finish.
Take care on sensitive areas
Use smaller trimmers for the face, ears, and tricky areas like behind the elbows. Even calm Dales ponies can be sensitive here, so work slowly and confidently.
Check blades regularly
Thick coats generate more heat and resistance, so brush hair out of the blades and oil them frequently. Masterclip blades are durable, but regular cooling and maintenance are essential to keep them running smoothly.
Tidy up lines
Step back regularly to check your work and even out any uneven patches. Use chalk to mark clip lines in advance if doing a trace, blanket, or hunter clip.
Aftercare
Brush off loose hair, rug your pony appropriately (as Dales ponies are hardy but still need protection once clipped), and clean and oil your clippers ready for next use.
Its important to make sure the horse is at the correct temperature after being clipped. Fleeces are generally not recommended for clipped horses, especially as overnight rugs, due to comfort and skin concerns. While they’re useful for short-term cooling or drying, extended use can cause problems. The fabric can grip the short coat, creating a “Velcro-like” effect that pulls on the skin as the horse moves. This friction may lead to irritation, hives, or sores. Fleeces can also generate static, causing discomfort, and tend to shift backwards, increasing pressure on the chest and withers.
Here at masterclip, with clipping being at the forefront of our minds we have designed the perfect rug to stop any irritation after your horse or pony has been clipped. Our post clip 100g stable rug offers a soft velvet touch faux fur lining, this lightweight stable rug insulates beautifully without the bulk
The recommendations provided are based on our experience and opinions regarding suitable blade choices. However, every horse is unique, and you know your horse best. What works well for one may not be appropriate for another. If you would like further guidance or to discuss tailored options, please feel free to contact the office and we will be happy to assist you.
