Interested in learning more about stallion stall and fencing requirements? We have 6 points that will help you do the best by your beloved steed!
A strong, good-looking stallion can easily become the pride of any barn. Seen throughout books and films, stallions play the role of a knight’s noble steed by adding an aesthetic of power and strength. These horses actually gained their namesake from Henry VII, who passed a series of laws that required uncastrated male horses to be kept in stalls. The name “stallion” translates into “stalled one” because Henry felt that the stallion’s power should be kept secret in order to surprise enemies with it in battle.
In present days, we still harness the increased strength and extra testosterone that stallion’s possess. You’ll see this careful care on farms that host these dominant equines. If you plan to keep and properly care for these powerful animals, you’ll need a few special requirements in terms of stallion stall and fencing.
- Stallion Stud Piles
Just like Henry VII, many proud stallion owners choose to keep their beasts in a stall. The pros to this idea are that stallions actually keep their stall quite clean. Stallions will choose an area in the stall to make their stud pile. This is where the stallion will continually deposit its waste. If he chooses a spot that happens to be ideal for quick, easy clean-up, just leave behind a small amount to maintain that spot. However, if your boy chooses his stud pile to be in the farthest back corner or least desirable place all you need to do is move a little of his mess to where you would like his spot to be. This should coax your boy to start using the new location for his stud pile, which will in turn, make daily mucking jobs a lot easier! - Stallion Stall Height
The choice to stall a stallion is a hefty task but easy enough if you take note of a couple requirements your stallion stall will need. One of these is to accommodate his larger size from the extra energy and testosterone he has in him. So make sure the stall’s ceilings are high enough to comfortably suit his height. To do this, measure how many hands your stallion is, and then appropriately select a height that gives him enough room. Remember, anything can happen so be sure to give the stallion enough room to rear in his stall without causing injury. - Stallion Stall Accessories
Due to their increased strength and sometimes fiery attitude, stallions can be dangerous to have in your barn. These accessories may help:
* To keep other horses, guests, and yourself safe, consider adding in a feed door in your stallion stall.
* A feed door will safely allow anyone to give the stallion his feed without putting them at risk by entering his territory. Stallions are naturally social animals but sometimes don’t work well with others.
*With this social behavior being noted, please do not build your stallion a stall where he is completely isolated or cut off from the rest of the barn. Thick, windowless walls would be like a prison for any social equine. By installing a stall grill or window, you allow him to socialize without undesirable consequences.
* Consider adding a Dutch Door or Window in the back of his stall, too, to add to his daily entertainment and view. And of course, a reinforced turn-out would do a lot for the general happiness of your stallion. - Height for Stallion Fencing
As we have mentioned previously in this article, stallions are naturally larger and stronger due to their increased level of testosterone. You know your stallion better than anyone but if you’re bringing in new blood or know you have an unpredictable personality, you may want to consider special stallion fencing. Fencing for stallions need to be higher than it would be for the average horse; it may also need to be more restrictive. To decide on the appropriate height, start by checking the fence height restrictions for your area. There may be a maximum height and material restrictions in place. This is information you need to know in order to build the stallion his fence and make sure he is kept safe. - Material Requirements for Stallion Fencing
Unless you already work with a high quality horse stall and fence company, the material you choose for the stallion’s fence should be stronger than usual. As mentioned in the previous paragraph, your area will most likely have restrictions on the material you can use. We suggest choosing the strongest choice of allowed fencing and in addition, add a string of electric wire along the top of the fence to discourage the stallion from jumping or tearing at the fence. Some stallion owners even choose to install double fencing for their stallions as an extra precaution. - Stallion Fencing Placement
Where you put a stallion’s paddock is one of the most important factors in preparing your horse farm for them. Stallion stall placement will help determine your boy’s attitude. We highly discourage placing him next to mares for it will cause him to act out while he’s trying to reach those lovely ladies. However, we do not want your stallion to be excluded from the rest of the farm so it is perfectly okay to have him placed next to the geldings, then have the geldings closest to the mares. This order will keep your farm harmonious when the stallion’s testosterone strikes.
Stallions add a special charm and charisma to any horse barn. But along with this come some specific requirements that make their place in your barn more desirable. Having big and tall enough stalls are most important when owning a stallion. It is also recommended to install a grill or Dutch window, and maybe even a feed door. When building a fence fit for your stallion, remember to check your local fencing restrictions to avoid any possible legal battles. A rule of thumb is to make your stallion’s fence taller and stronger than you would a normal horse’s. Placement is also pertinent to having a happy stallion. So feel free to show off your handsome boy and his impressive stall or fence!
