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The Versatility of the Miniature Horse
The miniature horse is used for many different purposes. The first and foremost reason to own one is because they are easy
to love. Miniature horses, depending on which registry you look into, can measure up to 38" in height and can be less
intimidating than the larger horse. They love attention and are willing to try almost anything you ask of them. This unique
breed will captivate your heart as winter approaches and they grow long and furry coats in the colder climates. In the summer
you will see them transform into sleek, well-defined animals. Miniature horses are great with children, the disabled, and
grown-ups as well.
This may sound interesting, you say, "but what can you do with them?" The answer is practically everything!
If you plan to show or just stay in your back yard, you will find they can do many things.
The different avenues of competition in the show ring are:
* Halter - Which is judged on the conformation of the animal
* Color - This class is judged 100% on color
* Jumping - Judging is based on the method of going over jumps and any faults that may occur
* In-hand Trail - Similar to the larger breeds in that they are led through several obstacles. For example: walking
through water, backing through poles, sidepassing or doing a 360-degree turn on the hunches.
* Driving - There are several driving classes you may enter depending on the show you attend. They are judged on your
horse's way of going. Just to name a few for your consideration: pleasure, country pleasure, and roadster. Obstacle Driving
- This is performed the same as an in-hand trail class, only done in your cart with different obstacles.
* Liberty - This is a fun class just to watch as your horse is turned loose in an arena and is judged on their different
gaits and style of going while the music of your choice is played. When the music stops, the handler has a time limit (usually
2 minutes) in which to catch their horse. Costume - In this class you and your horse dress in corresponding costumes and are
judged on originality and presentation.
* Harness Racing - In addition to the above ideas, miniature horses are also being used in this up-and-coming event.
They race at a trot, in the cart, and trail heats are run in order to match up horses with equal times. They are then raced
against each other with a purse normally being paid out.
In your back yard, you will find them equally valuable too! The larger miniatures may even be ridden under saddle with a small
child. You may trail drive through the woods, drive them around your neighborhood, or just take them for a walk. You won't
believe the attention they draw, as people really love them. Another growing area for the miniature horse is going to local
parades. It is fun to dress up your horse and cart with bows and ribbons while you wave at the spectators. Some miniature
owners often take their horses to visit nursing homes, which brings back memories and joy to those who grew up on a farm.
No matter what your goal is, you will find the miniature horse lovable in every sense of the word. They are truly a joy to
be around. One word of caution must be expressed however; it has been said that owning a miniature horse may be habit forming
A Responsible Breeder
AMHR Breed Standard
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