Skip to main content
Horse at a wooden fence.

Choosing the Best Fence For Your Horse

When it comes to ensuring the safety and well-being of your horses, one of the most vital decisions you’ll face is selecting the correct type of fencing. No one wants to make an emergency phone call because of an injury due to fencing. The perfect fence keeps your horses secure, protects them from injuries, and allows them to move around with room to exercise and graze. If you search for horse fences, you’ll find a wide array of options. With so many choices available, it can be challenging to determine the ideal horse fence for your specific needs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various types of fences for horses, offering valuable insights to help you decide which one is the best choice for your equine companions. 

Pros and Cons of Different Types of Horse Fencing

Wooden Fences

    Wooden fences are a popular choice among horse owners due to their classic appearance and durability. They are usually crafted from solid materials such as cedar, oak, or pine. They provide a robust barrier easily visible to horses and typically consist of boards attached to posts placed into the ground.

    Pros

    • They are highly visible, reducing the risk of your horses potentially running into them.
    • Solid wood is fairly durable.
    • Visually attractive, blending well with natural surroundings.

    Cons

    • Requires regular maintenance to prevent wood rot.
    • Can be expensive to maintain and install.
    • Horses may actually chew on the wood, resulting in damage over time.
    • Fences boards may need to be replaced on a regular basis due to wear and tear.

    Vinyl Fences

      Vinyl fences have become increasingly popular over the years due to their durability and low maintenance requirements. They resemble wood but do not need the same level of upkeep, such as staining or painting.

      Pros

      • Low maintenance, no peeling, rotting, or splintering.
      • Long-lasting and resistant to most weather conditions.
      • Customizable as they are available in several types of styles and colors.

      Cons

      • There is a higher initial cost for vinyl when compared to other types of horse fences.
      • Vinyl is less sturdy than wood, it can be damaged or break if horses lean against it.
      • It can become brittle in freezing temperatures.
      • Less secure than wood, and pipe.
      • Horses may push on the fence causing the panels to pop out.

      Electric Fences

        Electric fencing is a cost-effective and efficient type of horse fencing, particularly for large pastures. It utilizes a low-voltage current to establish a psychological barrier that discourages horses from attempting to breach the fence. For a more appealing look, you can opt for electric fences with coating.

        Pros

        • Easy to install and cost-effective.
        • Effective at deterring predators and containing your horses.
        • The fencing is flexible, meaning it is easy to expand or relocate.

        Cons

        • Consistent monitoring is needed to ensure the current system is working.
        • It’s less visible than other types of horse fencing, which could lead to accidental contact.
        • It can be less effective in areas with heavy vegetation that may short-circuit the fence.
        • Some horses will not respect it, and may not be secure in hot wire stand alone fencing concepts.

        Horserail

          Horserail has a stunning wooden board look with (a polyethylene molecularly bonded to galvanized wire) a 20-year life expectancy and no need to paint. Because of the material the fence is made with, it flexes rather than breaks, with each rail having over 3,000 pounds of breaking strength. This rail’s flexibility, smoothness, and stability also protect the rider and horse from injuries caused by conventional railing.

          Pros

          • This fencing has a 30-year limited warranty.
          • It’s likely the strongest compound fence, requiring practically zero maintenance.
          • It’s more aesthetically appealing than the average horse fence.

          Cons

          • You will need rail well-braced ends for this type of fencing.
          • A more significant investment than most types of horse fencing.
          • Takes a while to build appropriately, especially if you still need a hydraulic post driver. It may be better to have them professionally installed.

          PVC and Polymer Fences

            Polymer and PVC fences are similar to vinyl horse fences but offer additional flexibility. These horse fences are designed to flex upon impact, reducing the risk of horse injury.

            Pros

            • Reduces the likelihood of equine injury due to flexibility.
            • Resistant to weathering, making them low maintenance.
            • Available in several designs, offering an attractive option.

            Cons

            • Higher initial investment compared to traditional fencing materials.
            • May not be as strong as wood fences.
            • Requires professional installation for best results.

            Pipe Fences

              Pipe fencing, commonly used on ranches or in high-traffic areas, is extremely durable. Made from metal pipes, these virtually indestructible fences provide a safe and secure barrier for horses.

              Pros

              • Extremely durable and resistant to damage from horses.
              • Low maintenance once installed.
              • Provides a secure and robust barrier.

              Cons

              • The initial cost of materials and installation is high.
              • It can be challenging to install, often requiring professional welders.
              • Metal can become hot in the sun, potentially burning horses if they lean against the fence.
              • If a horse hits the pipe hard enough it can result in injury or even death. Pipe has no cushion to help with blunt force trauma.

              Wire Fences

                Wire fences are a prevalent choice because of their affordability and durability. Yet, it is vital to ensure that the wire used is smooth, using barbed wires is seen as a poor choice for the horse due to possible injury to the horse and rider. Barbed wire injuries can lead to punctures, deep cuts, and even potential entanglement in the fence. Smooth wire provides safe containment while still being efficient for containing your horse.

                Pros

                • Extremely cost-effective when compared to other fencing materials.
                • The wiring is incredibly durable, ensuring your fence contains the hoses efficiently.
                • Wire fences can be very versatile and used in various configurations and combined with other fencing materials for added security.

                Cons

                • Wire fences are not as aesthetically pleasing as other fencing materials.
                • The wire fences require consistent maintenance, including ensuring the tension is not loose, the posts have not shifted or the wires have broken.
                • Injury to horse: Even if you do not use barbed wire a horse still has the potential to get tangled in the wire fence. 

                Which Type of Fence is Best for Your Horse?

                There are various types of horse fences available, each with its advantages. Over the years, there have been many improvements in the fencing industry to ensure the safety and containment of horses. The most suitable fence type depends on factors such as your budget, property size, and your horses’ specific needs. Many horse owners find that a combination of fencing types offers the best solution. 

                Safety should always be the primary consideration. Choosing a strong, visible fence to protect your horses from injury is essential. By carefully weighing the pros and cons of each type of fence, you can create a secure and safe environment for your equine companions.

                At Full Circle Equine, we provide equine emergency veterinary services.  If you have any questions about fencing options for your situation, please feel free to contact us. We are here to assist you in making the best choice for your horses’ well-being.

                fencing