Dales Pony Association was incorporated in 2000 to serve the North American population of Dales Pony Enthusiasts. As the only Assocation recognized by the Dales Pony Society in Britain as a Daughter Society, the Dales Pony Association strongly encourages the ethical breeding, exhibition, and enjoyment of Dales Ponies that are true to type. The Dales Pony is listed on the endangered species list as a 'rare breed', only recently being upgraded from 'in danger of extinction', with just over 600 worldwide, and less than 100 on all of Canada and the U.S. Dales ponies are native to the eastern slopes of the English Pennines, known as the Yorkshire Dales.
Dales ponies have a history of close association with mankind.
There were breed as a pack pony for the lead industry. This required a pony of great strength and endurance. Dales ponies combine the best qualities of several breeds including the now extinct Galloway as well as the Norfolk and Yorkshire Trotters from whence the Dales pony acquired its flashy trot. Dales ponies stand up to 14.2 hh and are predominantly black, but also brown, bay and gray. White markings are permitted no higher than the fetlocks on the hindlegs only.