It stands up to 14.2 hands (58 inches, 147 cm) high and was developed from American Quarter Horse foundation bloodstock.

The breed has a short, broad head with small ears and wide-set eyes, set on a slightly arched neck.

[1] Quarter Ponies are often used in western riding activities as mounts for children because of their small size, and calm, even temperament.

Larger ponies are more suitable for adult riders and sometimes used for rodeo events such as steer wrestling.

pinto, leopard complex (Appaloosa), and white horses are not eligible for registration, nor are gaited ponies.

Horses with Pinto or Appaloosa markings, or with excessive white, are not eligible for registration.

Any type of pony meeting these requirements may be registered through the hardship registration program, which includes a special inspection.

Registries say that registrations of adult animals outnumber those for foals every year, as many owners wait until the pony is old enough to be shown under saddle before registering them.