The American Miniature Horse extracted from many sources in the creation of the breed. Undeniably, it utilized the blood of the English and Dutch mine horses, that were brought to this country in the 19th century and were used in some Appalachian coal mines as late as 1950. It also drew upon the blood of the Shetland pony, several of which appear in the pedigrees of some miniatures today. In the past decade, several breeders have imported miniature horses from England, Holland, Belgium, and West Germany, while others have selectively bred miniatures from the larger breeds of horses.

In 1978, The American Miniature Horse Association (AMHA) was formed. It is now the only registry in existence that deals exclusively with true Miniatures, 34 inches and under. Ponies over 34 inches are not considered Miniatures; they were not in the beginning, and they are not today.

The AMHA maintains complete pedigrees on each horse and an official magazine is published, The Miniature Horse World. There are hundreds of AMHA approved shows which are held throughout the country every year, culminating with the American Miniature Horse Association's National Show.

The American Miniature Horse as a breed is currently being standardized. The American Miniature Horse Association was organized and incorporated in July of 1978 to maintain a registry and stud book. A Standard of Perfection was adopted in 1978 and was amended by the membership in October 1988 at the annual meeting. Recognizing that two basic body types, a "draft" type and a fine-boned "refined" type, are present in the existing foundation stock, the Standard calls for a blending of the types into an elegant little horse.

Nutrition For The Miniature Horse

Feeding at a regular time each day along with gradual changes as needed in the diet will help prevent feed-associated diseases such as colic and founder.

For the average Miniature, a combination of legume hay, such as alfalfa, and oat hay provides an excellent source of the necessary protein, energy and vitamins. In addition, a trace mineral salt block and clean water should be available free choice.

For the working, growing, pregnant or lactating horse, additional energy and protein should be provided in the form of grain or pelleted supplements.

Conditioning & Showing

One of the most difficult tasks with respect to conditioning a horse is deciding which method is best for you. What works for one individual may or may not work for another.

Your horse should be exercised daily. Begin with a workout of five to ten minutes and gradually increase this length of time. You should exercise the horse until it is just breaking a sweat. A well-exercised horse is much less likely to become bored and exhibit bad habits.

Whether you longe, drive or jump your horse through a course, it will soon show physical improvement. Once you reach this stage, your horse is ready for the "grooming-to-win" process, regardless of which class you've chosen to enter.

Prior to the horse entering a trailer bound for the show, it should be groomed and all tack should be cleaned and in good shape. Bathing, brushing, combing, rubbing, and other work should be complete. Upon arrival at the show grounds, touch-ups and other details can be handled.

Be prepared. Arrive at the show ring prior to the class being called, with a clean and well-trained horse, making certain that you are properly dressed for the specific class. Take all instructions from the ring steward and be sure that as you enter the ring to always keep the horse between yourself and the judge. When walking or trotting your horse for the judge, always travel in a straight line. Remember, when in the show ring; always be alert and courteous to everyone.

When the judge is inspecting your horse, always try and present the animal to its best advantage. If you have conditioned your horse and have it groomed properly; you should do quite well.

Driving the Miniature Horse

Driving a mini whether hitched to a cart or wagon, can be a source of enjoyment for the entire family. Senior citizens, the handicapped, children - all can learn to drive a Miniature and enjoy the exhilarating experience. Once trained a Miniature Horse can pull two adults for up to ten miles and children can easily learn to "hitch up".

Driving Miniature Horses is a great form of entertainment. One of the great advantages related to children driving a Miniature Horse is that it gives them something to be proud of, a sense of accomplishment, while occupying their time.

Training a horse to drive for the show ring will take about six months, as there are several steps that should be taken in the proper bitting, harnessing, and driving of a young horse. Each step must be overcome properly prior to going on to the next. This will help to insure that the finished product will be safe and enjoyable for all.