Last Updated on February 22, 2022 by Allison Price
Ever wonder what the differences are between male horses and female horses . Horse owners and riders often prefer one horse gender to another. But why?
It is interesting to note that male and female horses are not only different in gender, but also in many other aspects. They often excel at different things and have distinct personality traits.
Let’s look at the differences between horse genders!
Table of Contents
- What makes a horse male or female?
- What is the Difference Between Male and Female Horses?
- Which Gender Is Best For Horses?
- Summary Male and Female Horses
What makes a horse male or female?
Like humans, horses can be divided into male and female genders. Their genes and reproductive anatomy determine which horse gender they are. Both male and female horses have many names.
Female Horses
Like humans, female horses can also become pregnant. Their reproductive organs allow them to have a foal in their abdomen and give birth. They can also rear the foal with milk from the teats.
Mares are not routinely neutered, unlike other animals like cats and dogs. It is difficult and very invasive to neuter a female horse.
Depending on their age or reproductive status, female horses may be called different names.
- Foal A horse that is one year old or less (can be either male or female).
- Yearling A horse between one and 2 years old (can be either male or female).
- Filly A filly for a horse that is less than four years old.
- Mare A female horse four years old or older.
- Dam is the mother of a foal
Male Horses
The foal can only be conceived by male horses. After mating, they produce spermatozoa which infects the mare with spermatozoa. A wild male horse would care for the herd and protect the foals and females. To protect his herd, he would fight other stallions and earn the right to mate with the mares.
Modern-day horses have been neutered most . This is to remove the testes so that the horse does not want to mate with a mare. This makes it easier for male horses to be calmer and easier to handle.
Depending on their age or reproductive status, male horses can be called different names.
- Foal is a horse that has been in the saddle for one year or less. This can be either a male or female horse.
- Yearling A horse between one and 2 years old (can be either male or female).
- Colt is a male horse less than four years old
- Stallion is an unneutered (entire male horse) aged four years and older
- Gelding is a castrated neutered male horse
- Rig A male horse that has been incorrectly castrated
- Sire– The father of a foal
What is the Difference Between Male and Female Horses?
Horses can have different reproductive organs and their personalities and behavior . We will then compare male horses to female horses, as most people will only be able to ride and meet castrated horses. We’ll then take a look at the differences between stallions and geldings.
The different genders of horses have their own character traits and behaviors. We are only making generalizations and there will always be exceptions! Many of us have seen mares behave like geldings, and vice versa.
- Mares
Contrary to geldings who have a hormone cycle, mares can experience changes in their temperament and behavior. These hormones have earned mares the reputation of being’moody’. However, it can vary from mare to mare. Female horses are known for being bold, stubborn, unpredictable, and independent.
In competition, mares often beat male horses. Horse genders do not differ in athletic performance. It is their temperaments that give one gender an advantage in competition. Mares’ bravery and boldness can make them great in events and jumping.
- Geldings
It is easy to predict how Geldings will react. They are usually calm and peaceful in nature. They are stable and reliable, and their behavior and mood don’t change much over time.
Neutered male horses are calm and even-tempered, which makes them well-suited for equestrian sports like dressage and racing.
- Stallions
Stallions are still active with their hormones! Stallions can become very excitable when they see a mare during breeding season. Stallions are not suitable for novice riders or handlers.
What Is the Best Gender Of Horse?
Now that you are aware of the differences between male and female horses, what do you think is the best horse? Many people prefer one gender over the other, but both have their benefits and drawbacks.
A gelding is a horse that can be trained and trained by riders who want a stable and predictable horse. This horse is the most popular for beginners and those who need to be focused and reliable. Horses with Geldings can also be used for leisure activities like trail riding. They are happy to roam for hours.
Riders and trainers who are looking for a challenge and a little bit of ‘fizziness’ often choose mares. Mares can be more difficult to handle, so riders must pay attention and concentrate.
Summary Male and Female Horses
As we have seen, male horses are more stable, reliable, and quiet than female horses. However, they can be unpredictable and lively. For novice riders or beginners, many trainers prefer geldings. Mares, which are female horses, can be more bold and challenging and excel in competitive sports.
We would love to know your preferences – do you prefer sensible geldings or fizzy mares? Do you have questions about horse genders or do you have some? Leave a comment below and we’ll get back with you!
