Today, the American Miniature Horse is one of the world's fastest growing and most beloved equine breeds. Classically elegant, gentle by nature  and appealing to people of all abilities, this small and unique equine - standing no taller than 38

     A scaled-down version of the standard-size horse, the American Miniature Horse comes in a rainbow of coat colors and patterns and several body types including draft and Arabian. The result of nearly 400 years of selective breeding, today's Miniature Horse is refined and well-proportioned. For those who have yet to see an American Miniature Horse or have made the discovery and want to know more, an exciting new world awaits!

     One can't help but smile when introduced to the American Miniature Horse. Youth, adults, special needs and older individuals enjoy this amazing and unique breed in many ways: as investments, show partners, or companions. Children who may be afraid of the standard-size horse often jump at the chance to embrace a Miniature Horse or foal. And the foals are especially lovable at 16 to 21 inches in height at birth! Adults, too, are reaping the rewards of Miniature Horse ownership. Transcending generations, it is not uncommon to see entire families from grandparent to grandchild working together to care for or work with their horses. Miniature Horse ownership encourages a wonderful learning experience and sense of accomplishment.

     Special needs individuals find the Miniature Horse an excellent substitute for the full-sized horse. Miniature Horses have long been used in therapeutic settings with positive results. Older individuals, no longer as mobile and preferring not to manage a standard-size horse are discovering the benefits of the Miniature Horse whether in competition, recreation or as an investment.

     The versatile American Miniature Horse makes an ideal show partner with talents ranging from halter and jumping to driving and obstacle. The opportunities are endless. AMHA & AMHR offer several divisions of competition including youth, amateur, special needs, and open. In the AMHA & AMHR show ring, individuals learn competitiveness and sportsmanship. The thrill and satisfaction from winning that first blue ribbon make effort worthwhile; and, while winning is exciting, striving for a personal best is often the greatest satisfaction.

     Guiding a young child in the proper care of the American Miniature Horse encourages discipline, responsibility and respect. Working with a Miniature Horse builds confidence and self-esteem - important qualities that carry over into adult life. Maintaining a Miniature Horse costs about one-tenth that of maintaining a large horse. The feeding program is basically the same but clean-up detail is much, much smaller. Care and maintenance for these petite equines can be performed safely by persons of any age, including children.