What is the difference between a dwarf horse, midget pony and a miniature horse?
In the opinion of many Veterinarians, all miniature horses possess some of the genetic markers for dwarfism. Equine dwarfism is a relatively rare occurrence in large horses, but it is far more common in miniature horses who have been bred exclusively for small size. Animal research indicates that there are more than 320 separate and distinct types of dwarfism, each with a unique genetic marker and characteristics. Click here to understand the history of the miniature horse. Unfortunately, many miniature horse breeders in the horse industry categorize all congenital anomalies as a singular condition of dwarfism, and this misconception has fostered an overgeneralization regarding equine dwarfism. Some types of equine achondroplastic dwarfism have specific physical characteristics such as short limbs and bulging forehead, but do not adversely effect the intelligence or lifespan of the horse. Click here to read about genetic mechanisms in equine dwarfism. Other forms of equine dwarfism suc
