Caring for Minis, Donkeys, and Mules
Debra Powell, PhD, PAS
September 15, 2025
Read about the unique nutritional and management needs of these equids in the Fall 2025 issue of The Horse.
Read about the unique nutritional and management needs of these equids in the Fall 2025 issue of The Horse.
Miniature Horses with allergies can be challenging to manage and might have different dietary needs than their larger counterparts.
An equine nutritionist offers advice for determining Miniature Horses’ forage requirements.
Dwarfism in horses causes major health challenges, leading to a heightened risk of functional handicaps, nutritional disorders, chronic pain, and serious welfare concerns.
Do grazing muzzles cause stress or alter social behavior? Researchers tested a group of Miniature Horses to find out.
When it comes to putting equids such as mules and Miniature Horses under general anesthesia, veterinarians must factor in those animals’ physical and behavioral differences.
Scientists categorize dwarfism in horses as being either proportional or disproportional, but both types are caused by genetic mutations.
Researchers identified found mutations in the gene aggrecan—the major structural protein of cartilage associated with dwarfism in Miniature Horses.
Dr. Ernest Bailey shares information about genetic diseases that related to specific breeds.
While small in size, Minis have the same health needs and risks as other breeds, as well as a number of unique issues.
Take a look at how equine registrations, transfers, and memberships have risen and declined over the past 20 years.
By knowing what conditions certain horses are predisposed to, owners and breeders can take preventive steps.
Listeners wonder if feeding guidelines for average-sized horses apply to Draft and Miniature Horses as well.
The University of Kentucky Animal Genetic Testing and Research Laboratory is now offering DNA-based tests for four mutations in the aggrecan gene associated with dwarfism in Miniature Horses.
Eberth’s research uncovered four mutations in the gene aggrecan (the major structural protein of cartilage) that are associated with dwarfism in the Miniature Horse.
Dr. Erin Denney-Jones provides information about caring for Miniature Horses and different health problems that can affect the pint-sized breed.
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