Donkeys evolved in arid desert regions and thrive on a high-fiber, low-sugar diet. Their meals should consist primarily of grass hay or safe native forage, not rich feeds meant for horses. Keeping calories low and fiber high is key to preventing obesity and metabolic issues. Learn more about feeding recommendations here: 

Everything Hay Guide for Donkeys

The Importance of a Donkey’s Diet to Their Overall Health and Well-being

Donkeys need clean, fresh water available at all times. Although they can conserve water well, dehydration can occur quickly, especially in hot climates or during winter when water may freeze. Offering warm water during cold weather encourages donkeys to stay hydrated. 

Routine veterinary exams, dental checks, and weight monitoring are essential for keeping donkeys healthy. Catching problems early, before they become emergencies, dramatically improves outcomes. It is essential to ensure your donkey(s) are established as patients with a local veterinarian. 

A vet-guided parasite plan is important, as donkeys often don’t show obvious signs of internal parasites. Annual core vaccinations and regular booster shots protect them from preventable illnesses. Read more about these topics here: 

Donkey Vaccines: Ensuring the Health and Well-being of Your Long-Eared Companions

Worming Donkeys

Donkey hooves grow continuously and require regular trimming every 6–10 weeks. Balanced hooves prevent lameness, support proper movement, and reduce strain on joints.

Donkey Hoof Care: Preventing Thrush, Whiteline, Abscesses, and Other Issues

Donkeys need dry shelter and wind protection year-round. Their desert heritage makes them prone to rain rot, mud issues, and cold-weather discomfort if housing is inadequate.

The Importance of Shelter and Appropriate Fencing for Donkeys

Donkeys respond best to patient, consistent handling and positive reinforcement. Regular social interaction builds trust and keeps basic skills like haltering, leading, and lifting feet reliable. 

Training Doesn’t End at Adoption: Why Your Donkey Needs You to Keep Going

Donkeys are deeply social animals and do best with another donkey companion. A bonded pair reduces stress, improves overall health, and supports emotional well-being. Donkeys are not designed to be solo equines. These articles provide guidance regarding housing donkeys in various situations:  

Housing Donkeys and Horses Together: A Comprehensive Guide

The Truth About Donkeys as Livestock Guardians

The Reality of Donkeys Housed with Other Livestock

Why Donkeys Need to Live with Other Donkeys

Donkeys are very efficient eaters and can become overweight quickly. Maintaining a healthy body condition helps prevent laminitis, metabolic syndrome, and joint issues.

Managing a Fat Donkey: A Guide to Safe Weight Loss and Healthy Living

Regular grooming helps prevent parasites, skin infections, and matted hair, especially in long-haired breeds or during seasonal shedding.

Some common plants and trees can be harmful to donkeys. Pastures should be checked regularly to ensure they are free of toxic vegetation and hazards. Donkeys often browse more selectively than horses, which means they may nibble shrubs or trees if bored or underfed. Some toxins are more potent when leaves are wilted (e.g., cherry, red maple). Many plants remain dangerous even when dried in hay (e.g., ragwort, bracken fern). If you’re unsure whether a plant is safe, assume it isn’t until verified

Understanding donkey body language like ear position, tail swishing, and vocalizations, helps owners recognize stress, discomfort, or illness quickly.

Donkey First Aid and Emergency Care: A Beginner’s Guide

Donkeys Hide Pain

Donkeys mask pain extremely well as a survival instinct. Subtle changes in behavior or appetite often indicate something serious. A donkey displaying signs of illness should be considered an emergency. 

Dental Problems Are Common but Often Missed

Uneven wear, sharp points, or missing teeth can prevent proper chewing and lead to weight loss or choke. Read more here: 

The Importance of Donkey Dentals

Donkeys Can Live 35–50 Years

Their long lifespan means owners must plan for decades of care, companionship, and financial responsibility. Learn how to care for your aging donkey(s) here:

Caring for Senior Donkeys: A Comprehensive Guide for Donkey Owners