HEIGHT: 36" or under

WEIGHT: 200 to 450 pounds

MALES: Any age male is called a Jack

FEMALES: Any age female is called a Jennet

HISTORY: Miniature donkeys are native to the Mediterranean islands of Sicily and Sardinia. Today the most desirable and well-conformed donkeys are from 31" to 35". The word "miniature" usually connotates animals that have been bred-down in size, so keep in mind that 'miniature donkeys' are simply diminutive.

COLOR: The most prevalent color for Miniature Donkeys is gray-dun which consists of a gray colored body, light colored nose - or dark colored nose -, light colored belly and with a dark color dorsal stripe down the back and over the shoulders ( known as the donkeys cross). There are also white donkeys and "spotted" donkeys.

REPRODUCTION: Miniature Donkeys, on average, carry a foal for 12 months.

PERSONALITY: The first and foremost attraction to Miniature Donkeys are their loving personalities. They demand attention! They form close attachments to their owners and to other donkeys. Donkeys are herd animals and one lone donkey is a very lonely donkey. Because of their laid-back, easy going personalities, they make wonderful pets for children, the handicapped and the elderly.

DONKEY COMMUNICATION: Donkeys communicate with their human owners and with other donkeys by "braying", also more commonly known as a hee-haw. Every donkey has their own style of braying with some sounding quite comical. They range from barely being audible to a loud thunderous bray. Donkeys develop schedules and if you are late in feeding, you will hear about it. On the whole, donkeys are very quiet animals.

GUARD DONKEYS: There is a big misconception that ALL donkeys make excellent guard animals. Not all donkeys make good guard animals. A jack that has not been gelded should never be used. There is only a 50/50 chance that a jennet or gelded jack will make a good guard donkey. It all depends on the donkey's personality and temperament. This goes for all sized donkeys. Most people want guard donkeys as protection against coyotes or dogs. Not all donkeys hate dogs. Again, never assume that all donkeys are good guardian animals.