There are many miniature horse breeds. Many clubs and organizations have different stipulations for you to join, with standard height 28 inches to 38 inches tall. There are several miniature horses all over the world in several breeds. Miniature horses are very friendly and work well with people, children in particularly.
Falabellas is a breed that typically has fewer birth defects. This horse in infamous for a photo in magazines when John and Caroline Kennedy received it as a Christmas gift.
The Shetland Pony stands 14 hands high. They seem to really get along with children and are found in several different colors.
The Welsh pony is a crossing Appaloosa and a Shetland Pony. The Welsh pony usually has the markings of the Appaloosa.
Small Thoroughbreds often are considered to be miniature horse because of their height.
Since the size of the miniature horse is so much smaller than the other breeds, they are often judged in a class of their own and many times have horse shows specifically for them. Miniature horse classes include the following: Halter, driving, liberty, costume, obstacle, and the in-hand hunter and jumper. The horse shows run for local up to world competitions.
Throughout the world there are dozens of miniature horse registries. Many of these organizations explicitly focus on the breeding of the miniature horses to make sure they keep the characteristics and physique of a horse. Other groups want the miniature horses to resemble more of the pony stature. So depending on the registry of the miniature horses are seen as horses, not as a pony. They are bred with the thought in mind of strength, alertness, and agility. Although miniature horses are very friendly and eager to please, they should not have nervous tendencies. They should have the same body tone and build as a full size horse. Most miniature horses live an average of 25 years to 35 years.
There is a fine line difference between a pony and a miniature horse. The points to remember are their body frame and characteristics. Check with local miniature horse registries to see what their guidelines are if you are looking to purchase a miniature horse or a pony and register it. Also, whether it is a miniature horse or a pony they both make a great pet and are great with kids. The miniature horse is a small breed of a large horse, it is remember to still remember the safety to you and your horse at all times.
