Read About Minature Horses

Minature horses are classy smaller versions of horse breeds. Here's everything you need to know about this horse breed.

Minature horses - Horse Breed Facts

  1. Breed Group:

    Toy breed
  2. Height & Weight:

    Minature horses are classified into two classes. Class A Horses are 34 inches tall. Class B horses are between 34 and 38 inches tall. Depending on their height, they can weigh anywhere between 150-350 pounds.
  3. Coat:

    Smooth and shiny but not glossy. Coats grow more dense in the winter season to give protection.
  4. Head & Neck:

    Their head is triangular, almost perpendicular to the neck. Neck is sloping and well-muscled.
  5. Body:

    Bodies are small with well developed features, though on a small scale.
  6. Conformation:

    They show head, neck, trunk and tail. The tail may be bushy or feathery.
  7. Colors:

    Black and Brown are the most common colors. Pinto, bay and chestnut are among the very attractive combinations.
  8. Gait:

    They can walk, trot and can canter at a slow pace, but they are not able to gallop.
  9. Popularity:

    Miniature horses are highly popular due to their unique small bodies.
  10. Registries:

    They are registered by American Minature Horses Association.

Minature horses - Horse Breed Origins

  1. Country of Origin:

    Argentina
  2. Lineage/Bloodline:

    They originated from the Andalusian horses brought by the Spanish Conquistadors into Latin America.
  3. Historical Information:

    They were originally bred by Patrick Newell, who later on passed his method to his son-in-law Juan Falabella.

Minature horses - Horse Breed Defining Characteristics

  1. Training Ease:

    Minature horses are good learners and can be easily taught to drive, jump and participate in obstacle events.
  2. Temperament:

    They are gentle, mild-mannered and affectionate animals.
  3. Child Friendly:

    They are the most ideal horses for children and children can safely play with them.
  4. Behavior:

    They are very obedient to their masters.
  5. Riding Ease:

    They give comfortable rides. Children can learn to ride on minature horses before riding on normal horses.
  6. Uses:

    Minature horses are good domestic pets. As they get along with children, they have been used for therapeutic purposes in child treatment.

Minature horses - Horse Breed Concerns

  1. Health Issues:

    They must be regularly dewormed and vaccinated.
  2. Feeding:

    Minature horses require less food than normal horses, and should not be overfed.
  3. Outfitting:

    Minature horses do not require the normal outfit of saddle and bridle. They can be made to wear shoes on their hooves.

Minature horses - How to Choose a Horse Breed

  1. What to Look for:

    They should have a well-proportioned body and soft muzzles. Scout for minature horses with an endearing soft look in their eyes.
  2. What you will Need:

    A space of 6 by 8 feet will be adequate. A small outdoor place is preferable. The shelter must be three sided, with a roof. A shavings bed is needed, or at least a paper filled crate.