The head is fairly small with a broad forehead, large kind eyes and small alert ears. The neck is of average length, strong but not heavy, with stallions having a moderate crest. The shoulder is well laid back with a slight wither. The back is of medium length with the loin and hindquarters strong and well muscled. The tail is set high and both mane and tail are very full.
Action is straight, free, low and flowing.
The usual colors are bay, brown, black and occasionally grey, chestnut or roan. White markings on the head and legs should be minimal. The Dartmoor makes an excellent child's first pony. Their calm, consistent, quiet disposition encourages novice riders both in and out of the show ring. Pony ownership provides children a way to learn responsibility, moral judgement, leadership and self-confidence skills that last a lifetime.