As many animals are not registered it is difficult to have an accurate count. Any donkey owner and enthusiast can spend hours telling you. Mostly it is the nature of the little guys. They are exceptionally friendly and affectionate. They enjoy people about as much as people enjoy them and tend to greet their owners with displays of affection and attention getting wiles.
Miniature donkeys are docile and surprisingly intelligent.
They learn quickly and are easily trained, due in part, to their willingness to please. They make especially good pets and companions for children, elderly people and people with disabilities because they are so calm and do not bite or kick by nature. As they will live from 25 to 35 years they are truly lifetime companions. Besides being excellent pets, the donkeys are easily trained to pull a cart or wagon. Many people enjoy showing their donkeys in driving, halter or pack classes.