01/03/2023
Excellent quality Miniature Donkeys can be a wise investment. A donkey with correct conformation and that is registered with known pedigrees, preferably of those bloodlines proven to consistently produce quality offspring, is an asset in a discerning breeding program. There is no free lunch and raising donkeys takes time, money, and lots of work but the profitability is quite different than it is for most horse breeders and the emotional reward is great. For instance, I estimate my annual cost per donkey to be something less than $400. Worthy breeding jennets can be purchased for $2000 to $4000 with better quality jennets sporting a price tag of up to $10,000 plus. Starting in the lower price range at an entry-level is how most people begin and many breeders never go beyond that. There is a place for all of us and if you breed with an eye towards conformation and genetics you will do fine. Breeding quality jacks should be in the top 5% of the population, quality-wise, and will sell for $2000 to $6000 typically. Pet quality geldings bring $800 to $1000 and show quality geldings may bring up to $2500. Even the best breeders will produce pet quality animals from time to time and sometimes these are the most loved of all. Financially, you can see that whether you produce a jack, jennet, or a foal to be gelded the profit margin is quite different than that of most horse breeders. Miniature Donkeys are also safer and less complicated to deal with making them an excellent choice for a beginner. There is a compelling argument to be made regarding the wisdom of purchasing high-quality donkeys; it costs the same to feed them as a lesser quality donkey, but their foals bring a higher price which will help pay the bills. This will allow you to chase your donkey dreams and producing excellent quality foals is beneficial to all of us. It is very realistic to have your donkeys pay for themselves. Marketing skills and dealing with known, popular bloodlines will have much to do with the price your foals will bring. Now, even with these little guys, it’s work! This is not the next get-rich scheme, but your responsible efforts will be rewarded
