Miniature donkeys are "herd" animals. To avoid undue stress and loneliness, it is strongly recommended they not be kept singly but with another Miniature Donkey or other animal as a life-long friend.  Shelter should be available for protection from heat as well as cold weather.  Trace mineral supplements should be available for your donkeys at all times.  Annual vaccinations include Tetanus, Eastern and Western Encephalomyelitis, Rhinopneumonitis, influenza and West Nile Virus, commonly know as a 5 in one shot.  Farrier visits are needed every eight to ten weeks depending on how the hooves grow, and wormings should be given every three to four months.

The American breed of Miniature Mediterranean donkeys originated on the Mediterranean Islands of Sicily and Sardinia, as well as in Ethiopia. The Nubian wild donkeys came from the African area of Nubia up to the Red Sea Coast area.  From the Nubian Subspecies, the domesticated donkey inherited the dark streak that runs across their withers (shoulders) and another line from the withers down toward the tail forming a cross. A good Sardian Donkey will exhibit the distinctive Cross, with darker markings on the ears; tip of the tail and around their feet.

The first Mediterranean Donkeys were imported into the United States around 1928. The first Miniature Mediterranean Donkey Registry was established in 1958 by Daniel & Beatrice Langfield in Omaha Nebraska. However in 1987, Mrs. Langfield relinquished custody of the registry into Stewardship of The American Donkey & Mule Society (ADMS)

Bred for their small size, conformation, and easy-going nature, the miniature donkey is well known for being a friendly and affectionate animal.  They are a loyal and docile animal that love human attention.  Sizes range from 26 to 36 inches at the withers and the average height is 33-34 inches.  A true miniature donkey is less than 36" at their withers after 3 years of age.  These donkeys range in weight at maturity from 250 to 450 pounds.  Miniature donkeys are termed “easy keepers” meaning they utilize their feed very efficiently and you must be careful that they do not get fat.  Good quality hay, supplemented with a 10-12% protein equine sweet feed should be supplied on a daily basis to complement the pasture grasses. Limited acreage is needed for the miniature donkey.  A pasture large enough to run, play and exercise is all that is needed for them to remain healthy.  With an average life span of 25 – 35 plus years, they are truly something you can pass on to the next generation.

Male donkeys are referred to as "jacks," female donkeys are "jennets," and baby donkeys are called "foals".  Jennets should not be bred until they are physically mature at approximately 2 ½ to 3 years of age. The jennets cycle every 18-21 days throughout most of the year.  Miniature donkeys have a gestation period of 11 to 13 months.  Single babies average 20-30 pounds at birth. Foals are up and nursing within 30 minutes and are weaned between 4-5 months of age.

Why have miniature donkeys?  Because they are so cute.  Their braying is their way of talking to you. Whether they are saying hello, or asking – Don’t you know it’s time to eat?  They do LOVE to eat. They are so loving and affectionate. Once you have been around them, you will be in love too! They will nibble on your legs, untie your shoes, tug at your pants, and occasionally give you a little nudge if you don't give them attention…… just like a child.

The increased popularity of the donkey as a pet was seen in the appearance of the miniature donkey in 1929. Robert Green imported miniature donkeys to the United States and was a lifetime advocate of the breed. Mr. Green is perhaps best quoted when he said, "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." Standing only 26-36 inches, many families recognized the potential of miniature donkeys as pets and companions for their children