How to Keep a Miniature Horse Fit

The American Miniature Horse Registry has two classifications for miniature horses, "A" division horses are 34 inches and under; "B" division horses are between 34 and 38 inches tall. Miniature horses need to be exercised regularly to stay fit.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Ride your miniature if you weigh under 50 pounds. Anything over 50 pounds is too much weight for him to carry and could cause injury. If you weigh between 35 and 50 pounds do not jump onto his back, or ride him any faster than a trot.
2. Take your miniature horse with you, on lead, when you go jogging. Running gives your horse the exercise it needs, and it's also fun.
3. Go for a bike ride and take your horse with you. Keep the horse on a lead that is long enough for him to run without getting tangled in your bike.
4. Set up jumps that are between 18-inches and 2-feet tall. Run with your miniature horse and jump over the obstacles yourself. Your horse won't be able to resist joining in. Miniature horses love jumping.
5. Hook a cart up to the horse and let her pull it while you walk alongside her. After she has gotten used to the cart, let her help you to carry groceries to the house or carry things around the yard while you do yard work.

Tips & Warnings

• Miniature horses are good natured, friendly, and make wonderful pets. They have an average lifespan of approximately 40 years.
• Never feed your miniature horse hay. Hay can cause obstructions in his digestive system. He should be fed 1 lb. of grain for 100 pounds of body weight. Break the food into 2 servings and feed him twice a day.