Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Breed Profile - Miniature Horse

Small stature horses can be dated back to 1650 AD to the Palace of Versailles and have also been found buried with Egyptian pharaohs. Originally only owned by royalty, "midget" horses soon became popular for other uses and today they are the fastest growing breed in popularity in North America.

Legend says that King Henry VIII ordered horses that were under 14 hands to be destroyed. Due to the popular demand of these small equines, he feared the end or slow-down in breeding of larger horses that were needed for soldiers during times of war. Breeders were able to hide enough of the small horses to preserve their blood line which individuals are able to enjoy today.

FULL ARTICLES:
THE MINIATURE HORSE

HISTORY OF THE MINIATURE HORSE

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