To use the table, take a standard tape measure and measure your horse or pony's girth. In the absence of scientific research, the next source of information on maximum weight loads for horses comes from historical sources--the result of centuries of horsemanship experience, not all of which developed with the well-being of the horse as the highest priority. Just as with any other horse, you must wait until a miniature horse is developmentally ready before trying to ride (or drive) him. Refer to this handy weight table from World Equine Veterinary Review/Vol.3:No.3: '98. You need to watch this number carefully in order to not overwork the horse. Upset 49ers star walks out after 'dumb question' Padma Lakshmi sparks controversy with T-shirt. Stay at the horse’s side to keep it safe. Here is a guide to taking care of a miniature horse. If a horse weighs 900 pounds it can hold up to a maximum of 225 pounds of human. They are also used in therapy for sick children. Subscribe! The information on this chart, "Comparison: American Miniature Horse to an Average Full Sized Horse", is gathered from a variety of sources and is not intended to represent specific or actual costs. Saddle your miniature horse, then place the child on its back. Miniature Horse Weight Table from World Equine Veterinary Review/Vol.3:No.3: '98 If your horse/pony's girth measures: Don’t leave the child and horse unsupervised. This is my fat, fluffy midget trick horse being awesome. If it's a larger (over 40") mini maybe setting a small child on there for pictures or for a very short ride probably wouldn't hurt, but nothing over 30lbs. Especially … Can Miniature Horses Be ridden? Miniature horses should not be ridden or taught to drive before the age of three. For every 25 pounds of human you need 100 pounds of horse. Miniature horses are different than your normal horse. Big Versus Small Comparisons of American Miniature Horses vs Average Full-sized Horses. Miniature horses are not bred to be ridden. However, horses can carry 1/3 of their weight. Horses are able to carry up to 20% of their own body weight. Normally, a horse must not carry more than 15–20% of his own weight. Use a sewing tape measure to measure the heart girth and then consult the table below to find the approximate weight of your miniature horse. Where these horses are similar to a regular horse, there are difference that set them apart. If your weight is more than 1/3 of your horses, you can cause injuries and soreness. There is no set weight limit to riding a horse. Where you can ride a regular horse, you cannot ride on the back of a miniature horse—at least nothing or someone that is more than 70 pounds. Then use the table to determine his/her weight. Ideal Housing for Miniature Horses. Miniature horses are not meant to be ridden,they are cart horses, though many people don't know that... they can actually be hurt from being ridden. Young horses who are still growing should not have to carry or pull weight until they are mature. Although small children may be the appropriate weight and many Miniature Horses are gentle and willing mounts, as with any combination of horse and child, caution is advised. The heart girth in inches = the body weight in pounds. You can ride a miniature horse if you are less than 50-60 pounds (23-27 kilograms). Young horses who are still growing should not have to carry or pull weight until they are mature.