Tiny and elegant, miniature horses were first bred over 400 years ago in Europe for the children of royalty. In the 1800s, these unique horses were imported to North America for use in the mines. Today, they have turned to pulling a dressed cart with a passenger from time to time.

The miniature is a horse for anyone. Because of their gentle, affectionate nature and small size, a Miniature horse is an excellent companion. They are ideal pets for young children, adults, senior citizens and the handicapped. A small child may be intimidated by a large horse, yet that same child will show an eagerness to embrace and hug a Miniature foal. The foals are particularly lovable due to their small size, ranging from 16 to about 21 inches in height at birth. Handicapped people have found the Miniature horse an excellent substitute for the full-size horse they may not be able to physically handle. The miniature horse is not only an ideal pet but comes with the opportunity to show and participate in the many competitions available around the world.

The Miniature horses of today are stylish, well-proportioned. The American Miniature Horse Association (AMHA) is the official registry of the American Miniature horse and is a recognized height breed. An animal exceeding 34 inches in height is not eligible for registration with this Association, however miniatures that exceed 34 inches up to 38 inches can be registered with the American Miniature Horse Registry (AMHR).

Because their size prohibits any but the smallest children to ride them, many people wonder what you can do with a Miniature horse. Basically, the answer is pretty much whatever one would do with a large horse. In place of riding them, however, folks drive their miniatures. Miniatures make excellent pets and are so much easier to manage than large horses. Many owners participate in local events/driving clubs or show their horses at the more than 250 sanctioned shows nationwide. In addition to showing at halter, driving the Miniature horse has become a very popular way owners are enjoying their Miniature horses. There are a variety of driving classes at each of the shows, including Single Pleasure, Country Pleasure or Open Driving Classes, Obstacle Driving, and Roadster Driving Classes. In addition, there are other classes like hunter/jumper, halter obstacle, lead-line, liberty, costume classes and much more. The competition is fun and challenging as more and more people join the AMHA and join in the fun!

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