How High Should a Horse Fence Be?

Safe horse fencing should also be strong.

Quiet Horses

The University of Illinois Extension explains on its Illini HorseNET website that the recommended fence height for most horses is a minimum of 5 feet. The Red Brand Horse Fencing Guide recommends side-by-side paddocks have a fence that is at least 5 feet tall, and that mares with foals be kept in areas with a 4-to-5-foot fence.

Stallions and High-Strung Horses

Illini HorseNET says a fence that's 6 feet or higher will prevent high-strung horses from attempting to jump out of their paddock. In addition, the Red Brand Horse Fencing Guide says a fence that's 5 to 6 feet high is best for stallion enclosures.

Bottom Line

The bottom line on the height of a horse fence is that it depends on the type of horse. A 5-foot fence is acceptable for the majority of horses, while stallions and some high-strung horses require a taller fence.

References

• The University of Illinois Extension Illini Horse NET-Safe Fencing for Horses
• Red Brand: Horse Fencing Guide