I
would like to start by saying....There are two main registries: AMHA, and AMHR. The AMHR (American Miniature Horse Registry) registers minis that are under
38" tall. They have two classes. A and B. A class are 34" and under. B class are 34 to 38" tall. AMHA (American
Miniature Horse Association) are very strict on height, and only register minis 34" or under.
Looking for a new mini: Two important things
to watch for in minis....always look for correct legs, good bites (no undershot, or overbites). As with any horse, consider
the animals health, disposition & conformation. Plus, is the horse friendly, easy to handle, gentle? Finally, consider
the accomplishments...Is the horse trained for cart, showing, taking to functions/hospitals, festivals, parades, gentle family
pet, etc? Then ask yourself this question, "Is the horse in front of me going to fit into my life?"
Bloodlines: It's always nice to have minis with good bloodlines. To some, it's VERY
important....but please consider the horse itself. In other words, what's on paper doesn't make the horse...look at
the horse in front of you, and consider the package. There are horses out there who have it all, but make sure it's a horse
you are happy with, too.
Breeding: If breeding,
consider a correct stallion which compliments the size of the mare...her bone structure, and height. Many seem to find a tiny stallion and breed to a mare a little larger than
he. For example, 30" stallion to a 33 or 34" tall mare. Hopefully, one would end up with a nice sized foal, which
stays within height limits. Be aware, breeding horses can be risky and an expensive venture.
Where to buy: Tons of breeders out there with a variety of pet quality and show quality minis.
I understand one may breed miniature horses for for personal reasons or for the improvement and integrity of
the breed. It's your decision to shop and find the right horse for you, for your needs, and a horse you are comfortable owning.
Prices vary, and seem to compete with the price of the standard size horse.
Cost
of owning a mini: Miniature horses require the same routine care as all horses. Feed, tack, equipment,
vet care is just as expensive! I've always said, "A mini costs just as much to keep as a regular sized horse...but
the food lasts longer." Minis don't eat as much as the big horses, and they don't need as much pasture space....BUT
space is still important for minis so they can run and use their muscles. I've seen owners have small areas for
the minis, even tucked away in dog runs! However, minis need room to roam, just like all horses.
Adoption:
There are several miniature horse rescues who have minis available for adoption. Over the years, I've admired the work of a
wonderful Miniature Horse rescue called Chances Miniature Horse Rescue. I've added their link on my favorite
links page.
Finally: I've owned horses since 1978, and I'm always willing to share what I've learned, and
still learning... however I'm not an expert.
Horse knowledge is endless! My wish: Everyone please be an responsible horse owner in the
care and success of their horses 
