Miniature horses have origins in various regions of the world, with traces dating back to the Middle Ages. They were selected for their small size, often used at the time for mining work or as companion animals for European aristocrats.
The modern development of miniature horses, as we know them today, primarily took place in the United States in the 20th century. The American Miniature Horse, one of the most recognized breeds, is the result of carefully planned crossbreeding between different breeds of small horses and ponies, including Shetland ponies and the Falabella horse, an Argentine breed already famous for its small size.
Argentina also played a key role in the history of miniature horses, thanks to the Falabella family. This family developed a line of small horses in the 1800s by crossing local ponies with larger horses, such as Thoroughbreds and Criollos. The Falabella horses are considered one of the oldest and most influential miniature horse breeds, contributing to the genetics of modern miniature horses.
Miniature horses generally measure less than 86 centimeters at the withers. Their morphology is proportional to that of normal-sized horses, although some bloodlines have traits closer to ponies. Their head is small and fine, often adorned with large, expressive eyes. Their compact body rests on short but sturdy legs. They come in a variety of coat colors, ranging from bay to black, including piebald or appaloosa patterns.
Miniature horses are known for their gentle temperament, intelligence, and sociability. They are often used in animal therapy due to their calm nature and ability to form strong bonds with humans. Despite their small size, they have a lot of energy and can be trained for activities such as jumping, driving, or even adapted obstacle courses. Their lifespan is generally long, often exceeding 30 years.
The reproduction of miniature horses follows a similar process to that of larger horses, but their small size requires special attention. The gestation period lasts on average 11 months, and foals are born weighing around 7 to 10 kilograms. Breeders must closely monitor the mare during pregnancy and delivery, as complications, although rare, can be serious. Careful genetic management is essential to avoid issues related to inbreeding or deformities.
The diet of miniature horses must be tailored to their size and specific needs. They primarily consume high-quality hay, supplemented with small amounts of concentrates depending on their physical activity. Their small stature makes them sensitive to overfeeding, which can lead to problems such as obesity or colic. It is also crucial to provide them with constant access to clean water and limit their intake of rich pastures to prevent metabolic disorders.
Care must be taken with the diet of horses, as there is a high risk of developing laminitis. Laminitis is a serious and painful condition that affects the hooves of horses, ponies, and donkeys. It results from inflammation of the lamellae, the structures that connect the bone of the foot (navicular bone) to the inner wall of the hoof. If not treated quickly, this condition can lead to permanent damage and severe lameness. Excessive intake of sugars or starches (for example, too many cereals or rich grass in the spring) can trigger a metabolic reaction that disrupts blood circulation in the foot. Affected horses stop walking or standing, especially on hard surfaces. This is why it is important not to give apples during your visit to the orchard.
