Miniature horses are lovely tiny horses known for their curiosity, intelligence, and friendliness towards anyone. Here's everything you need to know about this horse breed.
Miniature Horses - Facts
Breed Group:
Height breed group
Height & Weight:
A completely grown miniature is just thirty four inches in height from the last hair of the mane and 1000 pounds in weight.
Coat:
They have a fine and firm skin with visible veins.
Head & Neck:
Miniatures have disc shaped heads in proportion to body with prominent, wide eyes like Arabians and smooth necks blending into withers.
Body:
They have a well muscled flat back structure and powerful legs.
Conformation:
Miniatures have very common conformation required of most other breeds namely stallion with 5 lumbar bones, 17 ribs and 16 tail vertebrae.
Colors:
Miniature comes in any color: brown, black, white and chestnut colors with spots rarely.
Gait:
They have a soft and well-groomed gait.
Popularity:
Miniatures are getting popularized among all groups of people. They are also a good and charming owner's companion.
Registries:
American miniature horse association
Miniature Horses - Origins
Country of Origin:
America
Lineage/Bloodline:
It is the outcome of over 400 years of selective breeding. This genetic specialty descends from the bloodline of the Shetland Pony.
Historical Information:
They are a special and selective breed variety known for their size. They look like Arabians.
Miniature Horses - Defining Characteristics
Training Ease:
Easily trainable since they are intelligent.
Temperament:
Generally, easy to get along with.
Child Friendly:
Of course. Their size is good for the children to stick to these breeds and is the best for disabled child therapeutic programs.
Behavior:
Miniature are curious, intelligent, are friendly to all age groups and love to be outside and graze on a acre of grass.
Riding Ease:
They are not common for riding but can be taken out for a walk.
Uses:
They can be used for show/club fascinating purposes, relaxation and a stress relieving aid for business people.
Miniature Horses - Concerns
Health Issues:
They need high care with deworming doses, medication and of course a bit of affection too.
Feeding:
Miniatures need special feeding scales compared to larger breeds. They need grains measured in cups and particle hay flake in roughage.
Outfitting:
Since the idea is to go for the 'smallest' perfect miniature horse, it needs special bridles and bits.
Miniature Horses -- How to Choose
What to Look for:
They must be small and have a well-balanced back.
What you will Need:
They just need a stall of 6 feet by 8 feet and a good backyards.