The Genetics of Equine Dwarfism

Abstract

Dwarfism is a genetic disorder which is a condition of abnormal smaller stature in an individual of a species. This can refer to overall reduced stature, or reduced stature in specific body parts. Equine dwarfism is a heritable disease most prevalent in the Miniature horse breed and also documented in some Friesian horses. There are two morphological categories with numerous phenotypes. The dwarfism is proportionated or disproportionated. It is a not desirable genetic trait in Miniature horses and Friesian Horses. The horses show physical abnormalities.