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5 fun facts about Miniature Horses
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Of all the horse breeds in the world, perhaps none is quite as cute and unique as the Miniature Horse. Although Minis may seem to be very small ponies, they are actually proportionally more like full-sized horses in appearance. Here are five fun facts that you might not know about Miniature Horses:
1. THEY’RE SUPER-SMALL
As their name implies, Miniature Horses are very small. In 2007, a little brown mare called Thumbelina became the ‘smallest horse in the world’. She claimed the Guinness World Records title with a height of just 43cm.
NOTE: Despite their small size, Miniature Horses require just the same amount of care as their larger counterparts. This includes proper nutrition and regular vet, farrier and dental care.
2. THEY’RE NOT MEASURED AT THE WITHERS
As you probably know, most horse breeds are measured at the highest point of the withers, but the notable exception to this rule is (yes!) the Miniature Horse. Miniatures are measured from the last hair of their mane instead of at the withers. The vertical distance from the base of the last hairs of the main to the ground with the two front legs straight is the height.
3. THEY’RE FOUND IN TWO DIFFERENT SIZES
The American Miniature Horse Registry separates the breed into two distinct divisions: Division A for Miniature Horses up to 34 inches (86cm) and Division B for Miniature Horses ranging from 34 to 38 inches (86cm – 96cm).
4. THEY’RE FOUND IN MANY COLOURS
Miniature Horses come in a fantastic array of colours. In addition to frequently seen colours like black, bay, brown, grey, and chestnut, Miniature Horses can also be found in more unusual colours like cremello, perlino, pintaloosa, and champagne.
5. THEY’RE USED AS THERAPY HORSES
Since their small size makes it possible for Miniature Horses to go places where full-sized horses cannot, such as inside buildings, Miniature Horses are successfully used as therapy horses. They spend lots of time in hospitals, schools and nursing homes, bringing some fun-sized joy to those they interact with!
DID YOU KNOW?
Miniature Horses have set records not only for their small size but also for longevity! Miniature horses frequently live past the age of thirty, and a Miniature Horse named Angel reportedly lived past age 50.
