Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
Q . What is a Miniature Horse ?
A . The Miniature is a scaled down model of a full-sized horse and can measure no more than 34 inches at the last hairs of the mane . The American Miniature Horse Standard of Perfection calls for the smallest most perfectly conformed horse as the breed ideal . They come in all possible colors : pintos , appaloosas , buckskins , palominos as well as the more traditional colors : sorrel , white , blue roan , black , gray and silver dapple .
Q . Where did Miniature Horses come from ?
A . The result of nearly 400 years of selective breeding , historians tend to support the Miniature Horse breed as a derivative of many sources . In prehistoric times small horse breeds were likely the products of surviving harsh natural climates and limited feed . Today , knowledge of genetics has made the possibility of breeding specifically for size a reality . Miniature Horses were used in England and in Northern Europe as early as 1765 , to pull ore carts in the coalmines . They were also bred as pets for the royal families of Europe . The first mention of a small horse being imported into the United States was in 1888 ; and research shows little public awareness of true Miniatures until 1960 . Popular belief is that American Miniature Horses utilized the blood of English and Dutch mine horses brought into this country and used in some Appalachian coal mines as late as 1950 . The American Miniature Horse , as documented in the pedigrees of Miniatures today , also drew upon the blood of the Shetland pony .
Q . What are they good for ?
A . Practically anything you can do with a large horse ( with the exception of riding ) can also be done with a Miniature Horse . Because of their gentle , affectionate nature and small size , a Miniature Horse is an excellent pet . It is not uncommon to have a little nose nuzzling you as you try to go about your work in the barn or pasture . The foals are particularly lovable as they normally range between 16 to 21 inches in height at birth . Their birth weight is usually about 25 pounds . Many an owner has yielded to the temptation to pick up a foal like a baby and “ rock away ”. Many big horse owners will buy a Miniature for their children to love , learn to care for and ride years before they are ready for even the gentlest big horse . As the child matures , the Miniature can easily be taught to pull a cart or small wagon with children and / or adults . Miniatures also make great show horses . American Miniature Horses are shown at halter , in-hand hunter / jumper , obstacle , showmanship , single pleasure driving , country pleasure driving , roadster , multi-hitch driving , liberty and costume . AMHA shows are held throughout the United States and in Canada . Find a show near you at www . amha . org .
Q . I am interested in purchasing a Miniature Horse and would like advice on how to locate a Miniature Horse breeder ?
A . A good start is this AMHA Breeders and Trainers Directory that will help you locate farms in your area . Other steps include :
1 . Take your time ! Learn as much as you can before you buy . Visit the AMHA website www . amha . org for information on the breed , the organization and established Miniature horse owners .
2 . Find an AMHA club in your area and learn from seasoned AMHA members .
3 . Before you purchase a Miniature , measure the horse first . AMHA transfer documents require both the buyer and sellers signature to verify height . Is the seller offering any sort of guarantee ? Sometimes if you buy a mare in foal , the seller will guarantee a live foal and / or that the horse will not go over 34 inches .
4 . AMHA has a Studbook Online to research pedigrees for AMHA registered horses . If you are searching for a specific bloodline this should help .
5 . Become a member of AMHA to receive the Miniature Horse World magazine that offers articles and advertising from breeders all over the world .
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