Miniature Horses are just that - small horses. They are not a pony breed. They are a scaled-down version of large size horses. If registered with the American Miniature Horse Association, (AMHA) it stipulates that they must not be taller than thirty four inches, when measured at the last hair of the mane. However, the American Miniature Horse Registry (AMHR) does recognise two height divisions. "A" = 34" and under, and "B" = 34-38" and using the same measuring criteria listed above for AMHA.

Mini Horses are wonderful little horses. They have an appeal to young and old. Small children who might be apprehensive of being close to full size horses, will often find Miniatures, much less intimidating. While we do not encourage small children to be handling stallions, a nicely trained mare or gelding, is the perfect first horse for the young. Some of the larger Miniature Horses, can be ridden, but is up to the parents, to make absolutely sure, that the child is not too heavy for the horse. None of the smaller miniature horses, should be expected to carry the weight of a western saddle and the weight of an older child. This can only be classed as animal abuse. Certainly some of the larger/taller Minis, can be ridden by small children.

As our horse owning public ages and can no longer ride or handle full size horses, the Miniature Horse is THE perfect solution. Easy to handle and less expensive to feed, they are the perfect pet or new hobby for the elderly.

Newcomers to the breed often ask, "But what can you do with a Mini?" Both young and old can compete in shows, if this is their desire. Miniature Horses compete in halter, driving, jumping, hunter, trail, and showmanship. If owners are not interested in show competition, then owners can train their horses in all of the above, without competing. Miniature Horses make fun driving horses and old and young, can delight in a drive around their own property, or on a safe country road. Obviously to drive on public roads, the horse must be trained to accept traffic and be unaffected by some of the craziness we see outside our homes these days. Careful training is the key.

Miniature Horses often grow immense coats, during winter months. A given horse when groomed for the show ring for example, might look very different at the end of winter. When the weather warms up, most Miniature Horse owners, shave off all the very long winter hair. It obviously makes the horse look more presentable and makes the horse feel more comfortable.

Most of the time, taking care of a Miniature Horse, is the same as any other horse or pony. Just because they are small, does not mean they require less care. They require quality feed, regular veterinary care, hoof care, training and interaction with their humans. Yes, they are very cute when little, but the owner must not spoil the Miniature Horse, any more than he/she might spoil a young horse who will likely grow to sixteen hands or more. A spoiled Miniature, can be just as nasty and dangerous, as a full size horse. As with many small horses and ponies, Miniature Horses are prone to founder, if overfed. Very careful attention to their feeding, is imperative in the Miniature.

Join this Miniature Horse forum, to meet up with others and many very knowledgeable Miniature Horse owners.

MINIATURE HORSE RESCUE

In this difficult economic climate, Miniature Horses are suffering, just as the large breeds. Unfortunately, many are not being fed and cared for properly. Minis by the hundreds, are being dumped in public auctions and others left to die. Our Mini rescues are seeing an enormous influx of horses. Many are in horrendous condition. Our rescues do a wonderful job, bringing these little horses back to health. If you are in the market for a Miniature Horse, please do consider a rescue. So many desperately need a loving home. Consider also, becoming a foster parent to a Mini in need. Google Miniature Horse Rescue, to find a rescue in your area and offer your help to foster or permanently adopt. The rewards will be tenfold. Here is just one Miniature Horse rescue, but there are many others across the nation.

CHANCES MINIATURE HORSE RESCUE

DWARFISM IN MINIATURE HORSES

Dwarfism has been noted in several breeds of horses. This includes the Miniature Horse. While there is at present, no test for the possibility of dwarfism in horses who appear normal, anyone considering breeding, should be aware of and educate themselves, in what to look for. There are several types of dwarfism and some not easily identified. However, regardless of the severity of dwarfism, such horses should NOT be bred. Neither should any horse who has produced a dwarf. Dwarf animals are NOT worth more than a healthy horse. This, even though we often see breeders selling them as 'rare' to ignorant buyers. Buyers will often be faced in the future, with enormous vet bills and eventually, the heartache of having to put such animals to sleep. I will not go into the various type and problems associated with dwarfism, but offer the following sites where the reader can learn about what to look for and how to spot dwarfism. Just remember, if you seek to become a breeder and produce a dwarf, it is your responsibility to keep that animal and take care of it. It is IRresponsible to pass the animal off as 'rare' and/or sell it to unsuspecting buyers.

DWARFISM IN THE MINIATURE HORSE

DWARF TYPES

SPECIAL DWARF MINIATURES

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