While this is the easiest way to tell ponies and miniature horses apart, it isn’t the only way. Both animals have their unique physical characteristics and temperaments that set them apart!
A Brief History Of Miniature Horses And Ponies
Miniature horses and ponies share a common origin story. Both were bred specifically to go where full-sized horses couldn’t. Historically, both breeds were used in the United States and the United Kingdom by the coal mining industry. Due to their smaller size, they were well suited for use in transporting equipment and people through mining tunnels. Ultimately, ponies were more suited to labor. With their hardy constitution and sturdy build, they are still used on farms and ranches today. Often, ponies are also used to teach children or beginners how to ride and care for horses. Generally, ponies often live alongside larger horses outside and can defend themselves efficiently from predators. Miniature horses are more delicate and are now bred to be companion or therapy animals. They are not generally used for riding, as they can become injured easily. They are generally kept indoors and are often regarded as more of a household pet than livestock. This is largely due to their much smaller stature, which makes it difficult for them to defend themselves from a predator.
Key Differences Between Miniature Horses And Ponies
The key differences between miniature horses and ponies are appearance, temperament, and behavior. Let’s explore these differences in detail!
Miniature Horses vs Ponies: Appearance
Both miniature horses and ponies are, in essence, small horses. Ponies can fall anywhere under 14.2 hands or 57 inches in height. Miniature horses cannot be taller than 34 inches at the withers. This makes the length of their legs the easiest way to tell one from the other. However, miniature horses and ponies differ greatly in appearance. Each has its unique physical characteristics that help to identify them!
Physical Characteristics Of Miniature Horses
Miniature horses were bred to look exactly like larger horses, only on a much smaller scale. Therefore, they have finer and straighter legs, longer necks, and shorter backs than ponies. Miniature horses have finer coats, with thinner manes and tails as well. Overall, they have a thinner and more elegant physical form than ponies. Miniature horses will always have similar proportions found in larger horse breeds but on a smaller scale.
Physical Characteristics Of Ponies
Ponies are overall stockier and more heavily built than miniature horses. Though they are often taller, their legs are thicker and shorter than miniature horses. A pony also has a thicker and shorter neck, as well as a more pronounced barrel chest. Ponies also have thicker coats, manes, and tails that are often much coarser in texture. They generally appear to be slightly out of proportion when compared to miniature horses.
Miniature Horses vs Ponies: Temperament and Behavior
Ponies and miniature horses can differ quite a bit when it comes to behavior and expected temperament as well. Every type of horse, whether large or small, has its unique personality, and these two are no different!
Behavior And Temperament Of Miniature Horses
Miniature horses were specifically bred to be smaller versions of larger breeds. Therefore, their temperament and behavior can vary. Some breeds started as draft horses, which are known to be easygoing. Others are the descendants of thoroughbreds or racing horses that are prone to being high strung or skittish at times. However, like all horses, the miniature horse is intelligent and perceptive. Even skittish or high-strung breeds can be loving and devoted companions, just like their larger counterparts!
Behavior And Temperament Of Ponies
Ponies are known for their easygoing and gentle nature. Often, ponies are the first horses a child or beginner learns to ride because of their calm temperament. They are also quite patient and tolerant, though this can vary by breed. Shetland and Welsh ponies are great examples of what to look for when seeking a pony with an easy temperament. However, ponies are also known to exhibit aggressive behavior as well. This also depends on the breed in many cases. Ponies often exhibit aggression when in contact with people they do not know. Since ponies are often highly intelligent, they may also become stubborn or dominant when improperly trained.
