Horse wellbeing

A photo of two equestrians and their horses at twilight. On the left, a woman stands holding the reins of a dark brown horse, both looking directly at the camera. She wears a green top, beige riding breeches, and a black helmet. On the right, a child in a pink top and beige breeches sits atop a smaller, bay horse, holding the reins and smiling at the camera. She wears a brown riding helmet. They are in an open field with white fences in the background, and the soft glow of sunset illuminates the scene.

Do Horses Sleep Standing Up? Demystifying Equine Sleep Patterns

Beginner's Guide, FAQ / By Samantha Apple

Yes and no. Horses can catch light sleep or ‘doze’ while standing due to a unique arrangement of muscles and ligaments called the “stay apparatus”. However, for REM (deep) sleep, which is crucial for their overall health, they need to lie down.

woman riding horse to the left in an arena

Optimal Riding Frequency: How Often Should a Horse be Ridden?

Beginner's Guide, FAQ / By Samantha Apple

The frequency of riding a horse should be determined based on its health, age, fitness level, and the intensity of the rides. For a healthy, adult horse, a regimen of 4-5 days a week is often beneficial, providing a good balance of exercise and rest. Always remember, though, every horse is an individual and what works for one may not work for another.