What Size Stall Fits What Size Horse?

A horse stall must be large enough that the horse is able to stand up, turn around and lay down. The ceiling clearance of a stall should be high enough that the horse can't reach the ceiling or its support beams with its mouth while standing, and can't hit its head on the ceiling if it rears. How large a stall must be to meet those requirements depends on the breed of horse.

  1. Miniature Horses

    • The average miniature horse weighs roughly 250 to 400 lbs. A miniature horse can be kept in a stall that is 6 by 8 feet, and usually requires a minimum ceiling clearance of 7 feet.

    Small Horses and Ponies

    • A small horse or a pony is not part of the miniature horse breed but still weighs under about 900 lbs. A small horse may be kept in a stall that is 10 by 10 feet at minimum, and is comfortable in a stall that is up to 12 by 12 feet. The ceiling clearance can be 7 feet minimum, and the standard stall size 11 feet maximum, with the specific ceiling clearance dependent on the horse's size.

    Riding Horses

    • A riding horse generally weighs between 900 to 1,100 lbs. The average riding horse may be comfortably kept in the industry standard 12 by 12 feet stall. However, if it is necessary in temporary circumstances, the riding horse may be kept in a stall that is 10 by 12 feet at minimum. Most riding horses require a ceiling clearance of at least 11 feet.

    Draft Horses

    • A small draft horse must be kept in a stall that is at least 12 by 14 feet minimum. It is comfortable in a stall that is up to 14 by 14 feet. A large draft horse must be kept in a stall at least 16 by 16 feet. Draft horses require a ceiling clearance of 12 feet minimum.