Miniature Horse Breed Profile

 
The popularity of miniature horses commonly called minis reaches far beyond equestrians. Their adorable appearance and sweet disposition have earned them fans around the world. Miniature horses are known for their small stature and social nature. Theyre primarily kept as companion animals though they still have many tendencies and care needs of fullsize horses.
Breed Overview
WEIGHT 150 to 350 pounds
HEIGHT Typically under 8 5 hands 34 inches to 9 5 hands 38 inches
BODY TYPE Small muscular build many have similar proportions to larger horses

BEST FOR Anyone who wants a companion animal not a horse for riding
LIFE EXPECTANCY 35 years
History and Origins
Miniature horses have been developed for centuries by selectively breeding small horses and ponies from a broad swath of horse and pony breeds including the Shetland pony. They originated in Europe in the 1600s and became popular among the nobility for their novel appearance. They also were used for work in mines due to their small size. These small horses started to arrive in the United States in the late 1800s where they also went to work in mines. But it took several decades before the miniature horse gained considerable popularity in the U S.
Two main registries exist for the miniature horse the American Miniature Horse Association and the American Miniature Horse Registry. In addition enthusiasts worldwide have formed clubs registries and associations to celebrate their shared love of the breed.
Miniature Horse Size
Mini enthusiasts tend to use inches or centimeters rather than hands to measure. The American Miniature Horse Association only counts miniature horses measuring 8 5 hands 34 inches or less among its numbers. In contrast the American Miniature Horse Registry recognizes two divisions of miniature horses A division minis are 8 5 hands 34 inches or less and B minis range from 8 5 to 9 5 hands 34 to 38 inches. On average miniature horses weigh between 150 and 350 pounds.
Breeding and Uses
Miniature horses were initially bred for their novel size but they have since found many uses. Early miniature horses worked in mines where their small size was an asset in the tight spaces. They also were valued as companion animals especially by the wealthy.
Nowadays miniature horses are primarily kept as pets though many have some sort of job. Although most miniature horses are too small for riding some owners drive their minis hitched to carts or sleighs. Many owners also compete with their horses including