UNICORNER FARM
Miniature Horses and Tunis Sheep
Raising Miniature Horses
Breeding Miniature Horses can be either a small business or a great hobby. The quest for the perfect tiny miniature foal can be a rewarding experience. But one should consider several things before just jumping into breeding.
The photos below are of our first miniature horse, Red Robin who has raised numerous quality foals.
There are different "looks" in minis - some are very refined and Arabian looking, some are more stocky and square like a quarter horse, there are even draft types. What do you want to see in your pasture?
Learn which bloodlines are the most popular because bloodlines do sell. What registries are the miniature horses papers from? There are several registries available and you need to make sure your breeding stock is eligible for the appropriate ones depending on the area in which you will market your horses.
Showing can be a very important marketing tool. If you plan to show your horses, see what shows are in your area - you could end up with minis registered in the registry that doesn't offer shows in your area.
Do you want to drive your miniature horses? What type of driving discipline strikes your fancy? A high stepping pleasure horse, a fast roadster, a cross country trail horse, or even a mini draft hitch? These are also questions you should ask yourself when choosing your stock.
Finding miniature horses to buy is half the fun, and now with the internet, it is so much easier to find prospects. You will find lots of miniature horse farms to visit, plus you can check out bloodlines, pictures and prices from your desk.
Two very important tips you should consider in choosing your breeding stock:
- You really, REALLY don't need a stallion at first. Since it should be your goal to choose the best stallion to compliment each of your mares, vary rarely will that happen to be the same horse. So obtaining stud service from other breeders, though more trouble, is well worth the time and money invested. At least for the first couple of years. And more than likely you will soon have a dynamite colt that you just have to keep to become the cornerstone of your farm.
- Don't rush into any purchases - it's very easy to buy now and have regrets later. And believe me, they are like potato chips, you can't have just one (or even a handful). Good luck if you decide that miniature horse breeding is for you.