The origins of the American Miniature Mediterranean Donkey:

Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys are a breed of their own, and not 'bred down' as are many other Miniatures, (which can cause the inherent genetics of an animal to become diluted). Originally from Africa, they were taken to the Mediterranean Islands of Sardinia and Sicily to be beasts of burden. They pulled carts, carried loaded packs and did other farm work. Today most Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys are kept as pets, as a hobby, for recreation, and showing.

Because the Miniature Mediterraneans were so small, they were employed to turn grinding stones for grain inside the peasants houses. There are 18th century wood block pictures showing these small donkeys, blindfolded, attached to the grain mill and walking in endless circles. They were also used to carry water from village wells and supplies into the mountains for shepherds. Now almost extinct in their native land, these diminutive little animals are a very popular pet in the U.S, their popularity now spreading to other countries, with the importation of quality stock to various locations around the world.

< A three hundred year old Olive press operated by Donkeys.

In 1929 Stockbroker Robert Green imported six Jennies and a Jack to the US from Sicily. He had heard about the wonderful little animals during a trip to Europe, and without even seeing the Donkeys, he purchased and arranged their shipping through an agent in Paris. They were settled at his Stud Farm in New Jersey. Their adorable natures created interest, and these animals were supplemented with further importations into the US by other enthusiasts intrigued by these engaging animals, at intervals up until the 1950's, and possibly the early 1960's. A registry was established in 1958 and is thriving today.

Miniature Mediterraneans have at least three recorded
generations of ancestry.

Many have up to 400 recorded ancestors,
dating back to the first imports from Sardinia.  

Picture:

Beast of Burden - Sardinia

The Secret Museum of Mankind

 Characteristics:

American Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys are arguably the most gentle, affectionate and docile of all Equines. They are exceptionally intelligent, learn quickly, and are easily trained.

I would have to say that I have found Miniature Mediterraneans to have a distinct sense of humour that I have not found in any other animal. There would not be a day goes by that the Donkeys don't raise, at the very least, a smile from me, if not a chuckle!

The first and foremost attraction to American Miniature Mediterraneans however is their very loving personalities. They form close attachments to their owners, and thoroughly enjoy human company. They will ask for your attention with friendly nudges and brays, snuffles, snorts, and funny little sounds. Mine nearly have me fully trained to come when I'm called...I'm such a sucker!  

Most Donkeys, regardless of color have a cross and stripe. Even some Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys who appear to be black actually have very faint markings. There may be some Donkeys who do not have a cross, but the genetic marker has not as yet been located which would enable us to see where it is, or is not. The most common colour is Grey/Dun/Slate. Other colours include Brown, Black Brown, Black (rare), Red/Sorrel, Ivory (rare) and Spotted/Broken Coloured.

Donkeys have very long life spans, and with proper care and feeding will live 35-40 years. American Miniature Mediterraneans range in height from 26" to 36" with the average height around 34".

Please see the NMDA Breed Standard re their recommendation of a minimum height of 30". This recommendation has been made to prevent loss of potential reproductive fitness, including foaling difficulties. Small size may also adversely affect conformation and balance.

As Betsy Hutchin’s states in 'The Donkey’s & Mule as a Backyard Hobby':

“The most enjoyable thing about Donkeys as members of the equine world is the fact that they are exceptionally loving, almost in the same manner as a dog. They love to be touched and no amount of playing with, or loving will spoil them for work. They are highly intelligent. For some reasons, rumors to the contrary have always existed, but all one has to do is once have a horse and then a donkey and any belief in the stupidity of the ass is banished. They also have a definite sense of humor, sometimes mischief, and a great love of human company. All in all, whether you ride or drive your donkey, or just love him, he is an unexcelled pet in the large animals category."  

So well put, and I could not agree more. Coming from a 'horse background', I never ceased to be amazed at the comparison between my Horse's and my Donkeys in respect to both their nature and behaviours, and there is no doubting that these little Donkeys have a wonderful sense of humour! I actually plan to make a page on the site as soon as I have time, for the benefit of those who are experienced with Horses, and planning to enter the Donkey world. There certainly is a lot to learn, and all of it good!

 What other animals do Miniature Donkeys get along with?

Donkeys are herd animals and need to be provided a companion, preferably another Donkey. Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys are companionable with other livestock, and become quite attached to their herd mates. It is not wise to paddock them with larger animals such as large horses and cattle, as they may injure your Donkey. It is best to let them be in adjacent pastures.

Although American Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys do not generally like dogs, they will adapt to a dog that belongs to their owner and is a part of the family, however, if another dog were to come onto the property, your Donkey would become extremely defensive. Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys have been known to become very fast friends with their family dog, but they take time to get to know and trust each other.

Miniature Donkeys play quite roughly with each other, they enjoy chasing games, tug of war games, neck wrestling and nipping each others legs, and may not be suitable companions for goats for this reason. As with all Equines, Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys should be monitored when first introduced to a new companion.

 Uses of the Miniature Donkey:   

If a person really needs to justify owning Miniature Mediterraneans, the AMMD has many uses, the most common being a pet or companion animal. With such a long life expectancy, an American Miniature Mediterranean Donkey can truly be a friend and companion for life.  

American Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys, (when mature), are easily trained to pull carts and to be ridden by small children. They often take part in parades or are shown at other events.

People show their Donkeys in Driving, Halter, or Pack classes. They can carry a pack of up to 75-100 pounds if well conditioned and properly fed, and they make a good trail companion for hikers and backpackers.

In the US there are many Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys who visit schools and nursing homes for entertainment and education. They are also a very popular attraction at petting zoos and in nativity scenes.  

Because of their laid-back, easy going personalities, American Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys make wonderful pets for children, the handicapped, and the elderly.....really for anyone who would enjoy a gentle loving friend who will reciprocate the kindness, care, and love shown to him/her.