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Miniature
Horses
HISTORY
Miniature horses originated in Europe around the 16th
century, when Royalty wanted them for family pets. Young princes and princesses played
with the horses on the palace grounds. In the 1930’s, miniature horses were imported
into the United States. At first, they were used to work in the coal mines of West
Virginia and Indiana, but were then selectively bred to make the miniature horses of
today.
VERSITILITY
Miniature horses are gentle, affectionate and loving creatures; they act
more like dogs than a full-size horses. They are extremely fond of children, rarely kick
or bite, and can live to be over 30 years old. Intelligent and easy to train, miniature
horses can be used for showing, obstacle driving, and pleasure driving. They can easily be
taught to pull a cart, hauling 300 to 400 pounds for hours.
CHARACTERISTICS
A miniature horse should look like a full-size horse in all aspects-
conformation and characteristics, only be smaller. Officially, miniature horses must not
exceed 38 inches, measuring from the ground to the last hairs of the mane. Mares should
exude femininity and refinement, while stallions should show masculinity and boldness.
Overall, the objective of the breed is to produce the smallest, most perfect horse. |
