What is the correct size horse stall? (2024)

FAQs

What is the correct size horse stall? ›

A 12-foot x 12-foot stall is the standard recommendation for a 1,000-pound horse. Many stables are successful with stalls slightly smaller than this, but walls less than 10 feet in length are not recommended. Generally, the stall wall length is 1 1/2 times the horse's length.

An average-sized horse (about 14-16 hands) can fit comfortably in a 12' x 12' stall. That being said, one can consider a smaller stall such as 10'x12′ – depending on personal preferences and stall usage. Ponies, Welsh or Shetland breeds typically will do well in a 10' x 10' stall.

A 10x10 horse stall is a common, manageable size home for an average size horse. If your horse is less than 16 hands high (generally under 1,300 pounds), it should be quite comfortable in a 10x10 stall.

Many miniature horse breeders agree that eight-by-eight foot stalls are workable for these little horses, although some hold out for ten-by-ten. This is also a common show stall size. Of course, all of these sizes are for a horse that spends the bulk, or at least half, of his time indoors.

Typical 12x12 stall kits can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500 per stall; see here for more on stall options.

Wood provides a low- maintenance, level floor that aids in stall mucking. Planks should be at least 2-inches thick hardwood (often oak) with preservative treatment. Gaps between boards allow urine drainage and should be packed with sand, road base mix, or clay (Figure 3).

For obvious reasons, a large horse of 16 or even 17 hands will need more space to move around comfortably, while a miniature horse or pony can get by with a stall measuring 8x10 or even smaller.

The British Horse Society regulations are that horses require a stable measuring a minimum of 12ft x 12ft. For larger breeds, preferably 12ft x 14ft. For ponies the recommended minimum stable size should be 10ft x 10ft, or 10ft x12ft for larger ponies.

Average-sized horses (15 hands) do well in a 10' by 12' stall. Taller breeds (16 hands) should be in a 12' by 12' stall. Miniature horses or ponies (12 – 14 hands) are comfortable in an 8' by 10' stall.

An 8-foot-high stall partition is standard. Partition height needs to be at least 7 1⁄2 feet to prevent horses from getting legs over the wall. Most horses can kick as high as 7 feet.

How big is an 8 stall barn? ›

It is not uncommon to see an expansive 30'X'60 barn have space for 8 stalls, as well as a tack room and a wash stall. Two-story monitor barns tend to be longer than they are wide, although there are a few exceptions to the rule.

Miniature horses or ponies can be comforable in an 8'x10′ stall or smaller.

Some cost-saving strategies include opting for a shed row-style barn. This has a simpler design and requires fewer materials compared to traditional barn styles. Working with modular construction methods also helps to reduce construction and labor costs.

Open-sided or free-stall housing is good to use when you want to maintain horses in the open-air while providing protection from inclement weather. This type of system is used to house a group or horses that get along well with each other. Run-in sheds are often used.

Box stalls allow the animal more freedom of movement than tie stalls. Stalls should be at least 10 feet x 10 feet for a standard riding horse. If the stall is going to house broodmares and foals, the stalls should be a minimum of 10 feet x 14 feet.

30'X36' barns often feature 4 stalls along with a tack room and a washroom – as well as the crucial second story space. This barn design is noted for its attractive A-frame profile and fairly square footprint.

Thirty-six feet is a common building width (12' wide alley, flanked by 12' wide stalls on each side) and 10' for height. Length will depend on number of stalls, stall length, and additional rooms: tack room, wash bay, bathroom, lounge/office, and storage for feed, hay and equipment.