How to Raise a Horse: The Top Considerations

There are 2 million horse owners in the US. Over seven million Americans are involved in horses in some manner, whether as volunteers, employees, service providers, or owners themselves.

These amazing numbers prove what every horse owner already knows—that with the proper time, energy, and dedication, horse ownership is extremely rewarding.

Are you next?

If so, you’re likely wondering how to raise a horse. Perhaps you’ve already worked with other farm animals—goats, cows, donkeys, chickens—but now want to learn about horse raising. You’ve come to the right place!

Consider the Housing First

Before you think about the fun stuff, like dressage with horses (that will come!), you’ve got to make sure you can satisfy the fundamentals such as housing, horse fencing, food and water, exercise, and vet care.

Do you have an appropriately sized pasture where your horse can play, exercise, and move around?

Experts suggest no less than 1.5 to 2 acres per horse. That means if you’re raising two horses at once, you need at least three to four acres of land. It can’t be just any land, either, but a properly maintained space that’s free of any dangers to your horse.

Similarly, it needs to have plenty of grass for grazing unless you intend to supplement with hay. If your plan is to feed your horse primarily off the land, its care and upkeep become even more important. If your plan is to use the land for only exercise, you might get away with the slightly smaller size of land.

They should also have a dry place to lay down under the shade. You’ll need a stable to accommodate, especially if you live somewhere with inclement weather.

Then, the Basics: Food, Water, Salt

Food and water—you expected to hear that. But with horses, salt is another part of their diets all owners need to understand.

Let’s start with food. In addition to healthy, high-quality grass roughage on your property, horses also benefit from a well-rounded diet of hay and grains. Feed your horse an amount that considers its weight over its volume.

As far as water, horses need constant access to fresh drinking water. Both the food and drinking stations should be clear of dirt, debris, and mold.

Finally, salt.

When horses sweat (and so, this tip is particularly important in the summer), they lose copious amounts of sodium which needs to get supplemented by salt. If this mineral doesn’t get replenished, it could result in an electrolyte imbalance, which made lead to further medical complications. Keep the salt block separated from their food troughs.

The Yays and Neighs of How to Raise a Horse

Hopefully, these horse-raising tips have offered some perspective on the care and keeping of a horse.

It should be clear by now that horses require time, energy, effort, and financial dedication, too—but with the right love and upkeep, you and your horse could have a lasting, beautiful bond that spans decades. That’s a special thing!

Now that you know the basics of how to raise a horse, keep doing research until you’re absolutely sure you’re ready.

Come back here any time you need more advice like this!