Miniature horse

A miniature horse is a small horse selectively bred to retain the proportions and appearance of a full-sized horse. It is distinct from a pony, which is defined by its type as well as its size.

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Equine conformation: The structural proportions and physical features used to describe and assess a horse. Miniature horse registries judge how closely body proportions resemble those of a full-sized horse.
Horse show: A competition in which horses are assessed for qualities such as conformation, movement, or performance. Miniature horse shows award animals for conformation, driving, and other trained skills.
Pony: A small equine type commonly distinguished from horses by build and breed characteristics, not height alone. A pony may be short, but miniature horses are selected to retain full-sized horse proportions.
Equine metabolic syndrome: A metabolic disorder in horses associated with insulin dysregulation and increased risk of laminitis. Careful weight and pasture management can matter especially for easy-keeping miniature horses.
Horse breed: A population of horses selectively bred for shared, inherited traits. Miniature horses are bred and registered as a distinct type of horse.
Carriage driving: The sport and practice of guiding a horse that pulls a vehicle. Miniature horses can pull appropriately sized carts in recreational and competitive driving.
Shetland pony: A compact pony breed originating in Scotland's Shetland Islands. Its sturdy pony build contrasts with the refined, horse-like outline sought in miniature horses.
Laminitis: A painful disease affecting the tissues that connect a horse's hoof wall to its underlying bone. Excess weight and metabolic problems can raise the risk of this serious hoof disease.
Selective breeding: The deliberate choice of parents to increase desired traits in later generations. Repeated selection produces small stature while preserving horse-like appearance.
Animal-assisted therapy: A structured intervention that includes animals to support human health or well-being. Some miniature horses are trained for supervised therapeutic settings.