Housing a Falabella miniature horse

Many people find it difficult to estimate the minimum space a Falabella miniature horse or small pony actually needs. Many people assume that because they're small, they don't need much space. This is true to a certain extent, but also not. They definitely need the opportunity to run around and stretch their legs. If this isn't possible, the area is simply too small to keep a Falabella miniature horse or pony permanently. To use a simple example, consider the dimensions of a riding arena. These are often 20m x 40m. This area can easily accommodate two Falabella miniature horses or small ponies permanently, albeit minimally. If it's a sand paddock, and it's kept clean, there's not much of a problem. Keeping this small area clean prevents a constant worm infestation, for example.
If it's a small pasture, the grass won't stay green for long in this small area with at least two ponies or miniature horses. In this case, the animals should be well-fed, for example, with hay, and of course, provided with the necessary attention and extra exercise. With a small permanent habitat, it's crucial that these horses get extra exercise, for example, by walking, riding, lunging, or being ridden alongside a bicycle.

Company

Keeping one horse alone is absolutely not an option, as they are herd animals. A horse, whether large or small, should always be with at least one other horse. A sheep or goat is not a companion and is not good company for a horse. If a (miniature) horse doesn't have a companion, it can become lonely. Loneliness is perhaps the worst form of neglect for a horse.

Shelter possibility

Generally, Falabella miniature horses and small ponies can easily withstand various weather conditions and can therefore be kept outside 24/7. They grow a nice, thick winter coat in winter, which protects them from rain and cold. However, many Falabella miniature horses and ponies appreciate having shelter, such as a shed or a walk-in stable. This allows them to choose whether to stay dry indoors or outdoors.

Stable

Going outside during the day and stabled at night is also a great option. Perhaps the biggest advantage of a stable is that you can feed the horses individually and let them eat their portion in peace. A stable for a Falabella miniature horse doesn't need to be as large as one for a larger horse, for example. A 2m by 2m yard is ideal for a miniature horse. Larger miniature horses and ponies prefer a bit more space, and mares should also be able to give birth in it. A farrowing stall should be at least 3m by 3m to prevent the mare from getting stuck or not having enough room to give birth. Many options are available for bedding, including straw, sawdust, or flax. All three are perfectly suitable for Falabella miniature horses and small ponies.