the welsh cob existed as a type as early as the [[middle ages]], and mentions of such animals can be found in medieval welsh literature. during this time, they were known for their speed, jumping ability, and carrying capacity. before the introduction of large, "coldblood" [[draught horse]] breeds, they were used for farm work and [[logging|timbering]]. in 1485 the [[militia#united kingdom|welsh militia]], riding local animals presumed to be ancestors of the modern welsh cob, assisted [[henry vii of england|henry tudor]] in gaining the english throne. during the 15th century, similar small horses were also used as [[rouncey]]s, leading war horses known as [[destrier]]s.