Horse, Pony, Mini… Oh My!
Just like people, horses come in ALL shapes and sizes. Add unique personalities into the mix and the diversity is impressive. Generally speaking, horses are classified by their size: miniature, pony, and horse.
Miniature Horse: Good Things Come in Small Packages
Mini’s are everything we love in a full sized horse but in a cute and manageable little package. They are well known for their peppy and attitudes and are easy to train. We love to pair children up with mini’s for a number of reasons but their approachability and non-intimidating size is up at the top of the list. Being eye to eye with a horse is a magical experience for child, putting the horse on their level where they can take the time to get to know each other in a comfortable environment. While children are taught to respect the mini’s their temperament allows a little wiggle room and forgiveness for an excited and energetic child. Their small size also makes them the perfect therapy animal!
Pony: On Every Kids Wish List
Who didn’t want a pony growing up? You would beg, and plead, and even make space in your closet on the odd chance you could sneak one into your room. People tend to believe that ponies are just young horses or that they are a completely different species - neither of these are true. Ponies are the same species, just short! A pony is classified as such when they are shorter than 4feet 10 inches. Don’t be fooled by their size, ponies are very strong! While they are generally friendly and smart, they can also be stubborn.
Fun Fact: Horses are measured at a their WITHERS. The wither is the highest point of the body between their shoulders at the base of the neck. Instead of feet, they are measured in HANDS. One hand is equal to 4 inches (the width of an average mans hand).
Horse: Gentle Giants
Much like dogs, horses have an ancient history with us humans. Until the invention of the engine, horses were arguably the hardest working animal around! Even full size horses have an impressive range of size wit the largest being a shire (think Clydesdale and draft horses too). These horses can pull up to 3 times their own weight. Full sized horses measure above 4feet 10 inches. Again with the dog analogy: people do not argue when you say that labs are generally great family dogs but you may want to shy away from Husky’s with young kids. Horses have a broad range of general temperaments just like dogs and it is so important to remember that ANY horse (and dog for that matter) with proper training can land outside of these generalizations.
Fun Fact: Horses are loosely divided into three categories when it comes to describing their general temperaments - hot, warm, and cold bloods. Hot bloods tend to be harder headed, fast, and trained for endurance. Cold bloods are your gentle giants bread for work as well as some ponies. Warm bloods are right in the middle and usually good riding horses.
Don’t be shy, stop by! We would love to see you and introduce you to our miniature horses, ponies, and full sized horses. You can book a tour, a family trip, or inquire about our programs.