How to Show a Miniature Horse

Miniature horses are bred to be exact replicas of horses, but smaller. The size and personality of these horses make them great show animals. Showing a miniature horse can be nerve wracking and exciting for both handler and horse. Start at small shows so both the horse and the handler can get comfortable with the experience.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Miniature horse
• Breeding documents
• Registration papers
• Show registration forms

Pre-Show Preparations

1. Complete the necessary paperwork. It can vary from show to show. But you can count on needing your horse's breeding paperwork that should name the horse's parents. You will also need registration documentation showing your mini has been registered with a reputable miniature horse organization. Most times, your horse will have to be registered with the organization hosting the show.
2. Keep your miniature horse healthy. This is an essential starting point for showing. Proper feeding and nutrition are essential to a shiny coat and a sparkle in your mini-horse's eyes. You can talk to nutritionists, feed suppliers or veterinarians for specific information about nutrition.
3. Exercise your miniature horse regularly for good health. Walking is an excellent and easy way to keep your mini, and yourself, in shape. It is a gentle form of exercise that gradually builds muscle and keeps excess weight off. Long-reining is another option, but make sure you work the horse in both directions and keep the miniature horse's neck straight.

Grooming

4. Trim manes and tails neatly but let them flow naturally.
5. Trim or clip your mini's hair. Trimming and clipping can be tricky and can take a lot of practice to get it just right. Trimming and clipping can be time consuming so don't leave it for the last minute. The kinds of trimming and clipping allowed can depend on the show, so be sure to check with the host organization.
6. Bathe your horse but wait until the morning of the show. You can find a number of shampoos and conditioners for your horse. Miniature horses don't like to be wet or cold, so be sure to have plenty of big towels and blankets on hand.
7. Keep your mini-horse clean until the time of the show. There are products on the market to help, such as neck covers, tail covers and traveling boots.
8. Follow the show's rules for transporting your mini horse to a show. Keep a travel log. Check with the organization hosting the show for more information.
9. Add finishing touches to your mini right before you enter the ring. These can include hoof oil for the feet, chalk to white legs or some baby oil on a dark muzzle.

In the Ring

10. Make sure you and your horse are dressed appropriately. Your mini will need a bridle, but any other equipment requirements might vary. You will need to make sure you have proper headgear to allow you to keep control of your mini at all times. Handler dress requirements can vary, but plan to dress smartly.
11. Keep control of your miniature horse. Losing control could result in a judge asking you and your mini to leave.
12. Keep your attention on the show judges.
13. Line up to give the judges the best view of the miniature horses. Keep in mind they will be looking for the smallest example of a perfect horse.
14. Trot your miniature horse along the length of this line. The judge might ask you some questions about your mini. Keep your answers short and polite. Stick to the answers, don't try to strike up a conversation with the judge.

Tips & Warnings

• The handler's age can make a difference so be sure to check the rules of your competition for age requirements.
• Age and sex of the miniature horse can also make a difference so check the show's requirements.