The miniature horse

A minimum of 3200 ft² (300 m²) per horse is recommended for paddocks (if they also spend time in stalls) or 16000 ft² (1500 m²) per horse if they live fully in pasture. The paddock/pasture must contain a shelter and access to water. Safe fencing is essential, and board fencing works best. Avoid electric fencing, as miniature horses can get tangled and may not break free. Always check that fencing has no gaps or hazards. Stalls should be at least 8x8 feet (2.5x2.5 m) for individual stalls, and 12x12 feet (3.5x3.5 m) for double. If your miniature horses spends time in a stall, they must have access to daylight, and ideally a window to look outside. They must be let out in paddocks at least 4 hours a day.

Avoid giving miniature horses sudden access to lush grass, especially in spring and fall. Introduce pasture gradually to prevent digestive problems like colic.

Yes, and due to their smaller build, they're more quickly intoxicated than full sized horses. This a non exhaustive list of these plants: as a rule of thumb, all ornemental plants are considered toxic, and also Spotted Arum, Deadly Nightshade, Boxwood, Poison Hemlock, Oleander, Yew, Ragwort, Bulbous Buttercup, Oak, Cherry Laurel, Acorns, Buttercups, Sycamore Maple, Foxglove, Male Fern, Tansy, Hellebore, Comfrey, Daffodil, Green Potato, Horse Chestnut, Cypress.

Miniature horses require regular hoof trimming (every 4–10 weeks depending on growth and age) and annual dental exams to maintain oral health. You will need to brush their coats regularly to avoid skin issues, and cut off their mane and tail when it grows too long.

Monitor for signs of colic, weight changes, or unusual behavior (anorexia, lethargy, agitation, etc. Anything that is out of the ordinary). Maintain routine veterinary checkups, annual vaccinations, and general health monitoring. A sick horse often behaves differently than usual and can frequently be noticed early by an owner who knows their horse well. Keep in mind that not all horses react the same way. If you find that your horse doesn't have their usual behavior, don't hesitate to call your veterinarian for advice.

Foals from two months up to one year should be dewormed every two months with dewormers appropriate for their age, targeting ascaris, strongyles, and pinworms. After this, adult miniature horses are usually dewormed every three to four months, ideally following a rotation program or based on fecal egg count testing. Your veterinarian can provide the most accurate schedule for your horse.

Horses are herd animals and should not live alone. They need the company of other equines for mental well-being. While another miniature horse is ideal, other equine companions can also work. A horse kept in isolation is often unhappy and stressed.

Note for Switzerland: Keeping a horse alone is prohibited by law. For more details, see the Swiss Federal Office for Food Safety and Veterinary Affairs.

Use grooming tools suited to their size. Start with a curry comb to loosen dirt, then use a stiff brush, and finish with a soft brush. Clean hooves daily with a hoof pick. Gently brush the mane and tail to avoid breakage. Grooming not only keeps them healthy but also builds your bond. Miniatures often grow heavy winter coats, so clipping in spring may help them shed more comfortably.

Miniature horses need daily activity to stay fit and prevent obesity. Free turnout in a paddock or pasture is ideal. They also enjoy walks, driving, or agility work. Avoid lunging in tight circles, which can strain their joints. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise, so include training or play in their routine.

Miniature horses naturally grow thick winter coats and are quite hardy. Provide shelter from wind and rain, and increase hay in cold weather to support body heat. Always ensure water doesn’t freeze. Blankets are usually unnecessary, unless the horse is clipped, elderly, recovering, or simply more sensitive to the cold.

Miniatures may be small, but they are real horses with instincts and intelligence. They respond well to consistent, positive reinforcement. We begin training early with haltering, leading, and basic manners. With time, they can learn driving, agility, tricks, jumping, and even therapy work. For activities like driving or jumping, wait until the horse is at least three years old to ensure healthy development.

Choosing the right miniature horse depends on your goals, experience, and space. Consider whether you want a companion, show horse, or driving partner. Some horses are especially suited for families with children or homes with other animals. Look for healthy conformation, sound temperament, and good training. Visit reputable breeders, ask about health history, and take your time. The right match will be a wonderful companion for years to come.

Essentials include a well-fitted halter and lead rope (we provide these with your purchase), grooming tools (curry comb, brushes, hoof pick), feed and water buckets, and a basic equine first aid kit. For driving, you’ll need a cart and harness designed for miniatures. Never use full-sized horse equipment, as it can be unsafe for their smaller build.