Answer:
Miniature Horses are a scaled-down version of the large horse that cannot be taller than 34 inches under the registry of the AMHA (American Miniature Horse Association) when measured at the last hairs of the mane. Today's perfectly proportioned Miniatures are the product of nearly 400 years of selective breeding, initially in imported into the USA from England and Belgium in the early 1900's as work horses to take advantage of their great strength in pulling ore carts in coal mines. As their utility decreased with the advent of industrialization a few far sighted individuals started to breed Miniatures as unique pets.
Horsemen and non-horsemen alike are attracted to the miniature because of their small size and gentle, affectionate nature. Miniatures are the perfect horse for children to learn how to care for and ride, years before they are ready for even the most gentle big horse. Many a saddle horse lives in the pasture only to be ridden a few times a year by the well meaning, but other wise occupied owners. Miniatures bring all of the pleasures of horse ownership in a smaller package.
