Miniature Donkeys were originally native to the Mediterranean islands of Sardinia and Sicily and were primarily beasts of burden.

They measure 36” and under at the withers.  The word miniature usually means that the animals have been bred down in size.  Miniature donkeys are naturally small and have not been bred down per se, as is the case of many other miniature animals.

Donkeys are equines, and as such need the same care as their larger cousins.  Regular hoof trimming, vaccinations and worming.

Having been originally bred for sparse conditions, they are good doers, and survive on grass and good quality hay in the winter, I also give them a handful of pasture mix and a carrot as a treat.  It is very easy to overfeed your miniature, and it is important to be careful as too much grass or too much hard feed can cause laminitis, which is a very painful condition, and best avoided.  2 to 4 donkeys per acre is an ideal stocking rate.

Miniature donkeys are intelligent and friendly and should never be kept alone.  First and foremost is their loving personalities.  They form close attachments to their owners and to other donkeys.  As they are a herd animal they need the companionship of another equine, ideally another donkey.  Because of their laid back, easy going personalities they make wonderful pets for children, the handicapped and the elderly.  I do not recommend you buy an ungelded jack as a pet.  You can usually buy gelded jacks from most breeders, making them safe around children and the elderly.  All mine have learned to get on with my pygmy goats and dogs, and they all live together as a happy family.  Each one has its own distinctive bray as a form of greeting.

The most prevalent colour is grey-dun, but as with most animals, donkeys can range in colour from black to white and everything in between.

Gestation is 11 months, 3 weeks and 5 days.  On average a miniature donkey will carry a foal for 12 months, but it can be as little as 11 months or as long as 13 months.  Jennys should not be bred from until after their 3rd birthday.  Jacks can be fertile from one year of age.

I love to talk donkey, so any more questions please give me a call.