Miniature Horse

As the name implies, a Miniature horse is a small equine with the characteristics of the larger horse and pony breeds.  They are found all over the world and come in multiple sizes, colors and characteristics. The American Miniature Horse Registry, the original registry for the Miniature horse, recognizes two miniature divisions. Division A miniatures are up to 34" in height and Division B miniatures are over 34" and up to 38" tall, as measured at the withers.
Miniature horses are friendly and make wonderful companions. They are very often kept as family pets. While Miniature horses are extremely cute and cuddly, they still must be treated as a horse and need the same veterinary care, food, shelter and training that a standard sized horse would require.
Miniature horses are popular with both children and adults. These versatile little horses can do just about everything a full-size horse can do, including pulling carts, obstacle driving, and attending horse shows. In addition, Miniature horses have been trained as service animals for people with disabilities.
They are generally quite hardy, often living longer on average than some full-sized horse breeds; the average life span of Miniature horses is from 25 to 35 years. The oldest living horse on record was a dwarf named Angel who lived with the Horse Protection Society of North Carolina, who lived to be over 50.

Miniatures can come in any color or pattern. The American Miniature Horse Association Standard of Perfection states that a Miniature horse should be, “A small, sound, well-balanced horse, possessing the correct conformation characteristics required of most breeds. Refinement and femininity in the mare. Boldness and masculinity in the stallion. The general impression should be one of symmetry, strength, agility and alertness.”

For more information visit, American Miniature Horse Association, www.amha.org, American Miniature Horse Registry, www.shetlandminiature.com or Heart of America Miniature Equine at www.hame.us