The miniature donkey is native to the Mediterranean islands of Sicily and Sardinia.  Because of the growing popularity of these donkeys, there are very few left in their native habitat and import restrictions have been applied.  In North America however, there are already well  over 20,000 registered miniature donkeys and an unkown number of unregistered ones. The miniature donkey is a true breed and is not bred down.

By nature, the miniature donkey is one of the friendliest and most affectionate animals of its type.  They are tame and gentle, love their owners and seek lots of affection.  Friendly nudges, brays and funny little sounds are designed to attract your attention.  You will find your donkey to be extremely intelligent, docile and easily trained.  Geldings or jennets make the best pets.

Donkeys average from 28" to 36" in height at the withers, with the average being around 34".  In appearance the donkey should resemble a small draft donkey.  The head should be in proportion to the body, the leg bones should be large, the legs straight, the ribs well sprung, the chest wide, and the girth deep.  Long and intelligent ears finish the picture of the perfect miniature donkey.

The average donkey will weigh from 250 to 450 lbs. and the coat varies from flat to long and shaggy and its texture may be smooth or wiry.  Some foals are soft and furry and other have a wiry coat.  The most prevalent colour is grey dun, however, white, spotted, brown, sorrel, and black are also found.  The donkeys nose is usually white as is its belly;  however, dark noses and points do occur.  Most donkeys have the distinguishing mark of the dark cross on their backs, with the exception of the true black, which does not.  They have a long life span living to 25-30 years of age.

Miniature donkeys need a small amount of good quality hay per day, grains are not often needed.
A trace mineral supplement and salt should be made available to your donkey at all times.  They love treats, especially carrots and apples.  They should have good, clean water 24 hours a day and should NEVER be overfed.

Miniature donkeys need annual vaccinations and should be wormed every 2 to 3 months.  Their hooves should be attended to every 8 to 10 weeks depending on how rapidly the hooves grow.
Be aware that donkey's hooves are different from horses, therefore must be trimmed differently.

Donkeys need a three sided shed for protection against winter winds and from the heat of the sun in summer.  A single donkey needs 1/2 to 1 acre of pasture and they get along well with goats, sheep, horses, llamas as pasture mates as long as the time has been taken to integrate them properly.

A Jack is a male donkey that has not been castrated.

A Jennet, or Jenny as some say, is a female donkey.

A Foal is a young donkey from birth until they are 1 year old.

A Weanling is a young donkey that is separated or weaned from its mother.

A Gelding is a male donkey that has been castrated so it can't reproduce.