Types of Miniature Ponies

The terms "miniature pony," "miniature horse," "toy horse," "dwarf horse" and "pygmy pony" are often used interchangeably to describe horses and ponies with normal proportions, but stand less than 34 inches tall. Many are descendants of Shetland ponies, while others are miniature horse breeds in their own right. A number of breed registries exist worldwide, some emphasizing horse-like traits, while others concentrate on pony characteristics.

  1. Australian Miniature Pony

    • Tracing its origins back to the Shetland pony, the Australian miniature is the result of crosses between the well-known Shetland, the miniature Falabella and a number of other miscellaneous breeds. Ideal specimens look like miniature versions of the Shetland; to qualify as an Australian miniature for breeding, only one parent is registered as a miniature pony. All colors are acceptable. Jaw alignment is important for this breed; registered animals are not permitted to have underbites or overbites. The Australian miniature displays a calm temperament, making it an ideal pony for children.

    Falabella

    • Falabellas are a well-established pure miniature breed from Argentina. As one of the first miniature horse breeds, the Falabella is said to be a descendant of the Andalusian, brought to South America by colonizing Spaniards during the 1400s. In the 1840s, a breeder named Patrick Newell built the original herd. His son-in-law, Juan Falabella, inherited the horses and continued the line. An exceedingly rare breed, fewer than 1,500 Falabellas are registered worldwide, making this miniature an expensive but prestigious acquisition.

    Dartmoor Pony

    • The Dartmoor pony is a semi-tame breed that has inhabited Dartmoor National Park in southwest England for nearly a thousand years. While some specimens are large enough for riding, others measure less than 28 inches tall. None of these half-wild ponies have dwarf characteristics than can be brought out by domesticated breeding programs, though they do resemble the miniature horses bred in the U.S. A number of Dartmoors, officially recognized as a miniature horse breed, are removed from the park each year and sold or auctioned to private buyers and breeders.

    Caspian Horse

    • Caspian horses are a genetically distinct and ancient breed of miniature horse, dating back at least 3,000 years. With its small ears, large eyes and delicate build, the Caspian is fragile in appearance but sturdy in actuality. The breed standard excludes piebald, but allows for white dorsal markings. Though the Caspian is technically a horse, it is classified alongside ponies because of its small stature.