* Genetics: Miniature horses belong to the same species, *Equus caballus*, as full-sized horses. They share the same basic genetic code and are capable of interbreeding with larger horses.
* Physical Characteristics: Miniature horses possess the same physical attributes as their full-sized counterparts, including:
* Hooves: They have single-toed hooves with a tough outer wall and soft inner layer.
* Skeleton: Their skeletal structure is fundamentally the same as that of larger horses.
* Digestive System: They have a similar digestive system with a large cecum, adapted for digesting grasses.
* Social Behavior: They exhibit similar social behaviors, including herd instincts and communication through body language.
* Evolutionary History: Miniature horses descended from larger horses through selective breeding. Their smaller size is a result of human intervention, not a separate evolutionary path.
Therefore, despite their size, miniature horses are still classified as horses due to their shared genetic heritage, physical traits, and biological characteristics.