Well-suited for desert climates, Donkeys became an integral part of the transport in Australia up until the 1930’s. In fact, these animals do so well in the Australian climate that their feral numbers have grown to the point of becoming a nuisance. Read more →
The Arenberg-Nordkirchener is dangerously close to becoming extinct and are listed as critically endangered, with their population numbers in the teens. Read more →
The Anglo-Luso comes from Portugal and began with the crossing of local Lusitano mares with English Thoroughbred stallions. Although many Portuguese people objected to the cross-breeding, considering it a pollution to their purebred animals. Read more →
The Andalusian is up there with the Arabian when it comes to purity and length of bloodline. Easily a grandfather of modern horse breeds, Andalusian blood influences a huge variety of breeds known today. Read more →
This is the smallest of the donkey breeds and they are known for their incredible strength and willing attitude.
Origins
The American Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys originated in southern Europe on the small islands of Sardinia and Sicily. In the 18th century they were primarily used indoors for grinding grain and as pack animals for mountain shepherds. The breed was introduced to the US in 1929 when the first imports were received by Robert Green on his stud farm in New Jersey.
“Miniature Donkeys possess the affectionate nature of a Newfoundland, the resignation of a cow, the durability of a mule, the courage of a tiger, and the intellectual capability only slightly inferior to man’s.” – Robert Green
Today these tiny animals are almost extinct in their native lands, luckily they have become popular pets in the states, where their numbers continue to grow.
A wild member of the horse family Equidae, the African Wild Ass (Equus africanus) is thought to be the ancient ancestor of the domesticated donkey often seen today. Read more →