Pottok

The Pottok, or Pottoka in Basque, is a small pony from the western Pyrenees and the Basque Country of France and Spain. Mountain-bred Pottoks are hardy, compact, and sure-footed, with dense manes, strong hooves, and a practical build shaped by steep grazing and changeable weather. Black, bay, chestnut, and piebald animals are seen, depending on line and registry rules. French records commonly separate the traditional mountain type from larger, more saddle-oriented prairie or sport-influenced Pottoks.

Pottoks are used for children's riding, driving, trekking, and conservation grazing, while semi-feral herds still remain part of the cultural landscape in some areas. Their thriftiness is an advantage on poor pasture but can become a laminitis and obesity risk on rich grass. Foals raised with little handling need patient early work, secure fencing, and routine hoof and dental care. Breeders interested in the native pony should pay attention to regional registration standards and avoid assuming every small Basque pony is purebred.