How many acres per horse?

Our team of horse insurance experts are committed to following best practice when it comes to horse care and management. We are horse owners and riders ourselves and are always keen to find out more about the best ways we can help our equine friends thrive.

There’s plenty of debate about practice regarding horse turnout and how much space each horse or pony needs. Factors such as our individual horses’ preference, our routine, the type of horse or pony, time of year, soil drainage and pasture quality all play a part in how many acres a horse needs.

The British Horse Society (BHS) recommends a ratio of one horse per 1 to 1.5 acres on permanent grazing. However, they acknowledge that this recommendation can only ever be a guide as there are so many factors affecting the number of acres a horse of pony needs in order to be physically and mentally fit and well.

Individual Preference and Routine

Many horses and ponies are happy to be out whatever the weather; come rain or shine they are content to be in the field. Others however will want to come into the dry when the rain gets going or become restless in the field after a few hours. Yard routines often also will dictate how long your horse stays in the field or stable.

The amount of time spent out in the field will affect how many acres your horse will need. Horses that spend most of their time in the field will likely need up to two acres each, whereas an acre per horse could be sufficient for those that are stabled for part of the day.

The Type of Horse or Pony

Different breeds or types of horse or pony have varying needs when it comes to turnout. Often, ‘good-doers’ such as Native and Traditional breeds will need their grazing area restricted whereas a thoroughbred may need a larger area both for exercise and increased grazing.

The Time of Year

During the winter months, any ground with horses turned out is likely to become wet and poached. If the horses are out on it 24/7 there is little respite for the ground. To promote wellbeing, either rotating fields in the winter or ensuring several acres per horse is likely to be useful. In the Spring, with the lush grass that is likely to grow, it may be necessary to limit the grazing space for horses through strip grazing or track systems.

Soil Drainage and Pasture Quality

Different types of soil can dramatically affect the number of acres a horse will need. Horses living in a field with well-draining, chalky ground will have far less impact on the ground when it rains than horses out in a low-lying field with dense and sticky clay-based soil. In general, horses will need more space the wetter the ground becomes, although some very wet areas may not be suitable for winter turnout at all.

Managing Turnout

Whether an acre, or up to two, is suitable for your individual horse it’s always important to manage your pasture. Clearing droppings, maintaining safe fencing, avoiding over-grazing, fertilizing and reseeding will all contribute to your horse’s wellbeing.

About SEIB

SEIB Insurance Brokers have been providing insurance for Horses for over 60 years. We provide a flexible range of policies to suit your needs from Horsebox Insurance and Horse Trailer Insurance too. Our experienced team of horse owners can help provide you with advice on what cover you might need.