Miniature Donkeys originated in the Mediterranean area of Northern Africa in ancient times and more recently from the Islands of Sicily and Sardinia off the west coast of Italy. Over time the distinctions between the two island populations blurred and they are now considered one breed properly called Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys.
They are simply referred to as Miniature Donkeys in North America.
Purebred Miniature Donkeys in the Mediterranean area are rapidly disappearing, as the small donkeys are being mixed with larger breeds. For this reason, the Donkeys in North America have global genetic value.
Fortunately, numbers in the U.S. and Canada are strong and are increasing since the first Donkeys arrived in the United States in the early 1900's. Approximately 2,179 animals were registered in 1995 and the current population is estimated between 17,000 and 20,000 in the U.S.
The Miniature Donkey is a compact, well-proportioned animal with a sweet, sociable disposition. At maturity (3 years), it is able to pull a cart or carry a pack as it did in its native Sicily and Sardinia.
The Miniature Donkey community should strive to combine as many positive qualities as possible in each jennet and jack pairing to ensure the progeny will be excellent representatives of the breed.
Although every Miniature Donkey is not breeding quality, all Miniature Donkeys have a role to play as endearing companions and as public ambassadors in schools, fairs, parades and nursing homes.
BODY
The body should have balance and symmetry. Each part should blend together in a well proportioned, pleasing picture.
TEMPERAMENT
The Donkey should be gentle, loving and responsive. He should be friendly, kind, trusting and willing to please.
Rationale: The Miniature's temperament is much of their appeal. These qualities are well documented in the earliest references in history.
COLOR
There may be changes from a foal coat to a mature coat color. A clearer idea of what the mature coat will be is to look at the color of a foal's hair close to the body or on the head around the eyes. The Miniature Donkey Registry requests registrations to be updated after an individual's third birthday providing mature height, one clear photo of each side, and notification of any changes in markings or coat color.
When an animal is being evaluated for purposes of the show ring or breeding on the farm, coat color or pattern should be considered "invisible" as a selection factor and subordinate to characteristics of conformation.
The Miniature Donkey Registry recognizes the following coat colors:
Gray-Dun; Gray, Black or Red Roan; True Gray; Black; Albino-White; Sorrel; Bay; Brown; Spotted; Few Spot White (spotted); Unusual Colors