How to Breed a Maiden Mare
Breeding horses can be very rewarding, but it has its challenges. Stallions are often touted as the difficult ones to handle, especially during the breeding process. But mares can be touchy, too. A maiden mare can be incredibly tough to handle and even tougher to get covered when breeding.
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Instructions
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Begin by making sure that the mare is in good heat. Do this by teasing her thoroughly and looking for signs of standing heat. Since the maiden mare has never been covered by a stallion, it is imperative that she be as cooperative as possible, so that her instincts will work with you.
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Once you have established that she is in standing heat, the best possible way to breed her for her first cover is to have her pasture bred. By turning her in with an experienced stallion who knows the pasture breeding etiquette, she is far likelier to have a breeding experience that will not only be successful, but give her confidence for future breedings.
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If this is not possible, make sure the mare is tied in a stout halter to an even stouter post. This is where the stallion needs to be experienced and preferably not too loud or boisterous. Lead the stallion first to the maiden mare's head and allow him to talk to her and court her. Stand well back and be prepared for the stallion to strike and the mare to kick.
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Allow the stallion to work his way back from the mare's head and neck to her flank. At this point, the mare should be exhibiting clear signs of willingness and should be squatting and preparing to receive the stallion. When the stallion mounts, be prepared for the mare to try and bolt or scoot out from under. If your stallion is experienced, he will stay with her and complete the mating, or he will slide off and begin the courting process again.
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Be willing to take as much time as needed to make sure that the mare is comfortably courted by the stallion. Most mares, if they receive enough foreplay, will stand without too much fuss. For those few who continue to be a problem, it may be necessary to twitch, hobble, or otherwise subdue them while the stallion make his first cover. Most mares, once bred, will be easy to breed from their first cover forward.
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Tips & Warnings
Having an experienced stallion for the mare's first cover is an absolute must.
Never attempt this if you have not done it before. Get professional help.
- Photo Credit Courtesy of Boardman Arabians, LLC
