How High Should Your Horse Fence Be? Here's Our Expert's Advice.

Horses are truly beautiful. If you own them, we are sure they are your favourite beings and if you’re going to be a horse owner then let us tell you they will soon be your most treasured ones.  

With all the amazing experiences horses bring along, as an equestrian it’s your responsibility to give them a safe space to live and thrive. Fencing plays a crucial role in creating this perfect place for horses. You might have several questions related to choosing the right horse fencing, and if the one you’re currently grappling with is height, then keep reading. 

Our experts believe that when it comes to horses, safety is the first filter to evaluate all your choices. The height of your fence is no different.   

At Stock & Noble, we provide the finest fencing solutions to properties across Australia and New Zealand. All our products have proven their mettle throughout the globe with superior quality and high horse safety standards. With years of experience in helping equine property owners create safe and beautiful spaces for their horses, we will share some key insights that can help and guide you on your journey. 

In this article, we will discuss the role of height in creating an effective horse fence, the important factors to be considered and some pro-tips based on the breed, size and behaviour of your horses. You will have all the information you need to make the right decision so that the height of your horse fence matches the needs of your animals as well as your vision. 

Why Does the Height of Horse Fence Matter? 

While you may be spending a lot of time searching through the longevity and appearance of a fence, height might get overlooked. It not only impacts the aesthetics of your property but is an important safety consideration. 

The primary function of a horse fence is to keep the horses contained safely within your property boundaries.  

Issue with Low Fence: 

A fence that is too low can encourage horses to jump over it, risking injury or escape. Additionally, inadequate fencing height can make it easier for predators to access your horses, particularly foals and smaller breeds. 

Issue with High Fence: 

On the other hand, an excessively high fence might create a stressful environment for the horses, potentially leading to behavioural issues.  

A well-balanced fence height ensures that horses feel secure while having the freedom to move comfortably within their enclosure. 

Issue with Local Rules and Regulations 

If your horse fence doesn’t meet safety standards (e.g., inadequate height), it could potentially impact your insurance coverage. 

Always consult with your insurance provider to understand their specific guidelines and whether your fence complies with their requirements. 

Factors that Influence the Height of Your Horse Fence 

Breed and Size of Horses 

Different horse breeds have varying sizes and physical capabilities, which drive the required fence height. For instance, larger breeds like draft horses need taller fences to prevent them from stepping over or jumping the barrier. 

Ponies: 

A fence height of approximately 4.5 feet or 135 cm is generally sufficient for smaller breeds like ponies. 

Average-sized horses: 

Breeds such as Arabians, Quarter Horses, and Thoroughbreds typically require fences that are at least 5 feet or 152 cm tall to prevent escape. 

Larger horses: 

For breeds like Warmbloods or draft horses, consider a fence height of around 5.5 feet or more for added security. 

Behaviours and Temperaments 

Individual horse behaviour and temperament can affect the required fence height. Active or playful horses, as well as those known for their jumping abilities, may require higher fences to discourage escape attempts. 

High-energy or athletic horses: 

Horses that are particularly spirited or have a history of jumping may need a fence height of 5.5 to 6 feet or 168 to 182 cm. 

Visibility 

For the safety of your horses, it’s essential that they can see the fence. This prevents accidental collisions and helps deter attempts to jump over the fence. Depending on your environment, you might need to enhance the visibility of your fence by adjusting its height or adding visible markers. When it comes to post and rail fences, visibility is good as compared to wire or rope fences. 

Topography 

The landscape of your property can influence fence height. On uneven terrain, you may need to adjust the fence height to maintain a consistent barrier. If you have undulations in the ground of your property it’s ideal to get an expert’s recommendation on the best way forward. 

How to Determine the Fence’s Height 

When planning your horse fence, consider visibility, durability, and maintenance requirements, in addition to height. Generally, horse fences should be at least 4.5 to 5 feet tall (137-152 cm) adjusted for the specific needs of your horses. 

Example: 

Imagine you have a 16-hand (162.56 cm) Thoroughbred horse that is known for its tendency to escape. In this situation, choosing a fence height of 1.7 to 1.8 meters would be wise to ensure the horse’s safety. For added durability and security, you might choose fencing like the Premium Steel Post and Rail Fencing system, which provides both strength and flexibility. This type of fence can be easily adjusted to the required height and maintained over time without zero maintenance.  

Which Fencing Material to Choose to Achieve the Right Height? 

Building the ideal fence involves not just the right height but also the right materials and design. It’ll be worth digging deeper into different types of post and rail fencing options available in New Zealand. Whichever fencing material you choose, it’s good to ensure that it’s designed for horses and is versatile when it comes to choosing the height and number of rails. 

Our Premium Steel Post and Rail is an engineered fencing system, designed specifically with horse safety in mind.  

As far as height is concerned, it offers great flexibility. Whether you require two rails for lower height needs or up to five for maximum height and security, the system can be tailored to your specific requirements. The variable height options allow you to create a fence that is just the right size for your horses, taking into account their breed, size, and jumping prowess. 

Long-Term Investment that’s Safe  

Choosing a durable material like steel for your horse fence is a long-term investment. Steel offers unparalleled strength and longevity, standing up to the rigours of equine activity and harsh weather conditions without giving up on the wear and tear that can affect less durable materials.  

With a Premium Steel Fence, you can rest assured that the height you choose will be maintained over the years without the sagging or breaking that can occur with wood or vinyl options. 

Ready to Build Your Horse Fence? 

The height of your horse fence is a key factor in keeping your horses safe and healthy. A well-planned fence protects them from potential threats while providing a comfortable environment. By considering factors such as the breed and size of your horses, their behaviour and temperament, local wildlife, zoning laws, and the topography of your property, you can determine the right height for your horse fence. 

Based on our experience with most horses, a fence height of 1.4 to 1.8 meters is ideal, but this might differ based on your needs and circumstances. 

Choosing the right materials for your fence is equally important. Superior and safe fencing options, like the Premium Steel Post and Rail Fencing, provide both strength and flexibility, making it a durable and long-term investment. However, steel often raises concerns when it comes to horse safety. Learn all about the details of this premium fencing, and how it’s designed to be one of the safest fences for horses. 

By following the guidelines and recommendations outlined in this article, you can make informed decisions about your horse fencing and ensure that your horses remain safe, secure, and happy.  

If you have any more questions or need personalised advice on horse fencing, feel free to reach out to our team of experts. We are here to support you every step of the way in creating a safe and beautiful property, just the way you imagined.