When you heard the name Einstein a certain scientist’s face might have popped up in your head. However, in this case, it is entirely different as the Einstein horse is considered the world’s smallest horse. Even though it is pretty rare to find miniature horses, they are mostly known for suffering from dwarfism. This Einstein horse is unique, with a weight of 6 pounds and a height of 14 inches off the ground. Meanwhile, an average stallion is known for weighing around 150 pounds to 200 pounds at newborn.
Looking at the parents of Einstein’s horse, they, too, were miniature horses. The mother of Einstein was projected to have a height of 32 inches, while his dad had a height of 30 inches from the ground. Moreover, the co-owner of Einstein’s horse was also surprised by his birth as he was completely healthy, but the only deformity was his smaller size. To learn more about Einstein’s horse, keep on reading this article until the end.
Table of Contents
What is the difference Between an Einstein horse and a Pony?
Some people could need clarification regarding the appearance of the Einstein horse. Due to its height, many people consider it a pony, and although there are similarities, it is not valid.
- Breed
Miniature horses like Einstein are a result of breeding between two mini horses over time. On the other hand, ponies are made through evolution, which helps them to survive in harsher climates easily.
- Body size
Mini horses are petite compared to traditional horses, which are known for their large size and stature. However, if compared to ponies, even though they are short in stature, ponies have bulky build.
- Appearance
Looking at the appearance of mini horses they have long necks, small heads, thin manes, tiny tails, and lighter coats. At the same time, ponies are said to have a thick and short neck with little legs.
Common health problems faced by miniature horses
Compared to normal-sized horses, miniature horses like Einstein horse are said to go through multiple health problems. Some of them have been openly discussed in the points mentioned below.
- Obesity and metabolic disorders
One of the most common problems that miniature horses are said to suffer from is obesity. This happens due to a lack of proper exercise and being overfed from time to time. Moreover, when facing obesity metabolic disorders also arise like insulin resistance, equine metabolic syndrome, and increased chances of laminitis.
- Dental problems
Another common health problem, that miniature horses are said to face is dental hygiene issues. Even after regular dental cleaning some miniature horses could suffer from overgrown teeth, dental malocclusions, and other dental diseases.
- Respiratory issues
Miniature horses are always advised to stay in clean and nurtured environments. If they are placed in a dusty and poorly ventilated environment, they could develop a variety of respiratory problems. Heaves are a common respiratory condition that miniature horses face when exposed to allergens and irritants.
- Joint and limb problems
It is pretty standard for miniature horses to face problems in their joints and limbs due to their small size. Such problems could later lead to osteoarthritis and orthopedic diseases. However, with proper care, these limb-related issues can be treated and rightfully avoided in miniature horses.
- Reproductive issues
While breeding miniature horses, you need to be extra careful regarding their small size and complications related to pregnancy. Dystocia is one of the common issues that horses face while growing up.
What about the health of Einstein horse?
Miniature horses like Einstein horse could go through many health issues. Some of them have already been discussed in the points above, which you might have already gone through. However, when it came to Einstein, the horse didn’t face such issues.
But in one instance, it suffered a spinal cord injury at the tender age of 2 months. He soon became the first and only horse to be operated on at such a young age by a canine neurosurgeon. Plenty of other surgeons rejected the prospect of tendering to Einstein’s wounds due to their small size.
This surgery lasted for eight tough hours, where the spine of Einstein was put together with five screws and seven pins. Surprisingly, within two months, einstein was again seen jumping on the grass and enjoying his freedom.
Reasons behind breeding miniature horses
There are plenty of reasons that can be associated with breeding miniature horses. A few of those have been discussed briefly in the points below.
- Family-friendly pets
Suppose you are looking for a compassionate pet that has a lighter temperament towards people with an affectionate nature. Then, choosing miniature horses would be the best choice. They are said to be ideal companions for children due to their small size and friendly attributes.
- Used for therapy and assistance
In most cases, miniature horses are used in providing therapy to people having mental issues, emotional challenges, disabilities, and other exceptional circumstances. Because of their calm and relaxed head and excellent bonding capabilities. These animals are used to assist people in their lonely times compared to larger horses.
- Exhibition shows
The miniature horses are known for actively participating in a variety of pet shows and exhibitions. Due to their smaller size and versatility or ability to learn things quickly. They can used for winning prizes in pet shows that are primarily between small equines.
- Providing education
Sometimes, miniature horses are also known for being used in providing education to children and adults. People who need to possess knowledge regarding horses or how to take care of a pet. In order to teach them the ownership techniques, miniature horses are used.
Conclusion
Although the Einstein horse is remembered as the smallest horse to exist in this world. It didn’t manage to live long due to a variety of complications related to his body. At the age of 18, he was euthanized at the place of his birth Bellingham, Washington. Soon after his birth, it became a global phenomenon as many people from across the country and other places visited regularly to get a glimpse of him.