Horses are measured from the top of their withers to the ground and are measured in hands. Four inches are in a hand.
The pony stands 14.2 hands high (147cm, 58 inches), when at full growth. Any horse over 14.2 hands high is stated a horse and anything less is a pony, although there are exceptions. The physique and temperament is one of a horse. Miniature horses are the same as larger horses just a smaller rendition. Ponies present a thicker mane, tail, and body. They are also heavy boned. The ponies can be small similar to a medium dog. The miniature horse can be smaller than the pony. Their size makes them great for children, as a guide for the disabled and first-time horse owners. Light horses such as Paint horses, Thoroughbred horses, and Quarter horses, Arabian horses, and Morgan horse vary in their height. They can be anywhere from 14 hands high to 16 hands high and weigh between 850 pounds to 1500 pounds. Their body and stature helps them be quick. They are also great to show with their muscle and tone.
The draft and warhorses like the Clydesdale horse, the Belgian horse, the Shire horse and others reach at least 16 hands high and can grow to 21 hands high. Their weight is 1500 pounds to 2000 pounds.
The smallest horse recorded in history is 17 inches tall and only weighs in at 60 pounds. The largest horse recorded is a Shire horse standing 21.2 1/2 hand high (7 feet 2 1/2 inches) and weighing 3300 pounds or 1.5 tons. This is why they are used for pulling wagons and carts. Their size is beneficial for the task.
Several associations set limitations to how many horses they take in certain sizes and their breed, although some do not set these limitations. Height is extremely important when purchasing a horse for a child. The children do better on a smaller horse. On a large horse the child cannot use the equipment properly and may cause injury or death to him or herself.
Whichever horse you choose their breed and size needs to be in consideration for whether you are need a show horse, racehorse, workhorse, or one as a pet. This allows the horse to accommodate your needs.
