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You may have heard of Puppy Play or Pet Play before. Perhaps you’ve seen someone dressed as a puppy being led on a leash by their owner at LGBTQIA+ events like Pride or Folsom gatherings. These practices are part of the BDSM spectrum, a type of roleplay often centered around dominance and submission. Pony Play is one such form of roleplay. In this article, we’ll explain what it’s all about.
Embodying Animal Roles: Pony Play Breaks Boundaries
Not sure what this type of roleplay entails? No problem. Essentially, Pony Play incorporates techniques from real equestrian activities. One partner assumes the role of the animal, often wearing outfits reminiscent of horses, such as tails, masks, or bridles. The other partner takes on the role of the trainer, controlling and training the “pony” and asserting dominance over them.
Those taking on the role of the horse or pony often choose a specific persona: breeding horse, dressage horse, pony boy, or workhorse. In some cases, ponies may pull carts or sulkies or learn and perform tricks. For this, ponies are guided by a trainer, handler, or tamer who trains them, issues commands, and more. Admittedly, to outsiders, Pony Play might appear bizarre—not just because of the costumes but also due to the dynamics between pony and trainer.
While many examples online show elaborately outfitted human ponies, such intricate and often costly accessories are not mandatory. Pony Play can also be practiced without much investment, as it’s primarily about the mindset and the feelings the roleplay evokes.
Adopting Animal Characteristics in Pony Play
Fans of Pony Play strive to adopt the traits of a horse or pony within the context of this roleplay. This involves a transformation where the pony sheds human attributes temporarily to behave like an animal that needs to be fed, groomed, led (or ridden), and trained. Typically, the “pony” is the submissive party, allowing their “handler” to command, discipline, and reward them. While this preference isn’t limited to Pony Play—other popular forms include Puppy Play or Cat Play—it offers a unique twist.
This Pet Play also encourages exploring new behaviors. The submissive participant (the “pony”) may, for instance, aim to obey the dominant participant (the “top”) and temporarily forego speech. Submissive players often identify with the pony persona because it aligns with their characteristics. In their role, they adopt a passive, controlled position, while their partner makes decisions and assumes control. What many find stimulating in Pony Play is relinquishing responsibility to the top. The top, in turn, derives satisfaction from influencing their partner’s behavior, often through “training.”
Toys and Equipment in Pony Play
Widely recognized in the BDSM community, Pony Play is also known beyond LGBTQIA+ circles. It encompasses different roles like dressage ponies, riding horses, and workhorses, each with tasks suited to their persona. Tops, playing the role of trainers or riders, train the ponies to fulfill these tasks.
Various specially crafted (and often expensive) items come into this animal roleplay, such as harnesses, carts (sulkies), and other tools. These are often used outdoors in private settings. Essential items typically include riding crops, whips, bit gags (bridle-like restraints), and masks, all designed to enforce the pony’s submission to their handler’s will.
Those fully invested in the hobby often acquire custom-made horse masks, sometimes featuring real horsehair manes, which can range from several hundred to several thousand euros. The cost usually depends on the design, materials, craftsmanship, and time involved. Enthusiasts might also wear real horsehair tails. Leather is a common material due to its durability and ease of cleaning. Purchasing a sulky for outdoor play can also be a significant expense.
Peculiarities of Pony Play
While some fans aim for authenticity, trying to mimic a real horse’s behavior, others focus on the dynamic between trainer and pony, often incorporating elements of control and humiliation. Sexual components are not mandatory but can be part of the play.
There’s a distinction between those who fully immerse themselves in their role, experiencing what’s known as “pet space” (a specific form of subspace), and those who engage in the power dynamics created by their pony persona. For the latter, the pony role often incorporates human traits, such as sexuality, even in costume.
Many find Pony Play an exciting exploration of power, where they are treated, trained, and disciplined like a horse by their partner. The roleplay can include pony shows, performing tricks, chastity play, and “milking.” For some, riding the pony is also part of the experience.
A Unique Fetish
Some may be surprised to see a pony-trainer pair in a park or even in the city. However, some enthusiasts boldly engage in their hobby in public, like being pulled in a sulky through Berlin’s Tiergarten. Most, however, keep their activities private, showcasing them only at fetish events or Pride parades. Even when not explicitly sexual, Pony Play can have an arousing or erotic aspect.
If you’re curious about this type of play, it’s best to ease into it slowly. With just a few toys, you can explore Pony Play and decide if the roleplay appeals to you or even excites you sexually. Online, you can connect with like-minded individuals to share experiences or even practice the hobby together.
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