Horse

Mini Horses

People are often amused and surprised when they see Miniature horses, either at horse shows, country fairs, or even at the circus. The Miniature horse may seem like an oddity at first, but they are a result of hundreds of years of selective breeding.

"Minis" as they are affectionately called, are believed to have originated from Shetland ponies. They were bred specifically for a variety of tasks, including working in coal mines, as pets for royalty and as performers at traveling circuses and carnivals.

The first records of an individual owning miniature horses were kept in the mid 1600s. These horses were said to belong to King Louis XIV and were kept at his Versailles palace in France. The first minis arrived in the United States in the 1800s and worked in the coal mines of the Appalachian Mountains.

Miniatures horses are used for a variety of purposes today including livestock, pets, and companion animals for those who are disabled. Minis live to be between 20 to 30 years old, the same lifespan of their larger counterparts.

Various breeds are believed to exist in countries throughout the world. These include:

* UK Shetland Pony

* Miniature Shetland Pony

* Miniature Pony

* Miniature Toy Horse

* Midget Pony

* Micro Mini

* Dartmoor Pony

* American Miniature Horse

* Falabella

Like other breeds of horses, Minis must adhere to certain standards in order to be considered genuine members of their particular breed. These standards include being no more than 7 to 8 hands high, having rounded hooves, straight and parallel legs, widely spaced eyes and they must be well-proportioned overall.

There are Miniature horses for sale all around the globe, waiting to be purchased or adopted by loving families or individuals. A miniature horse can be the perfect companion for anyone, young or old, a big heart for these little wonders.