In addition to their role as pets, they were also kept as curiosities and appeared in circuses where their reputation as performers grew. It was not until the late 18th century that they because used as pit ponies, working the mines in Wales and in Great Britain. In the 1800’s, because of their size, they were imported to the United States to work in the coal mines of Appalachia. American breeders took an interest in the miniature horse breed and began selective breeding practices to breed a miniature with perfect proportions to the larger animals.
They are found in a variety of colors including bay, black, buckskin, chestnut, grey, palomino, pinto and white. They should have a head in proportion to the body and neck with a broad forehead and eyes widely spaced. Medium sized ears should be pointed with a long, flexible neck. Hooves should be rounded with legs straight and parallel to each other and the animal’s croup should be the same height as the withers.
Because of their gentle nature, many still own miniature horses as pets as they thrive on attention with a great display of curiosity and intelligence. While many people have always wanted to own a horse, but had reservations of owning, handling and caring for an animal that could weight over 1,000 pounds, are finding the miniature horse breed ideal. About an acre of land is usually sufficient roaming territory for exercise and outdoor feeding and caring for a miniature is the same as for any other horse breeds, only on a much smaller scale.
The lifespan of a miniature horse is about 30 years, although on miniature in North Carolina’s protective area attained the age of 50.
Labels: Miniature Horse
