Purchasing and maintaining an electric fence for your horse may be both costly and time-consuming. There are several electric fence manufacturers to select from, but how do you know which one will work? We’ve produced a list of the top 5 best electric fences for horses for iron-clad protection to help narrow down your options when selecting the best electric fences.
Electric Fencing for Horses
The instinct of a horse is to gallop free and graze on grass. They must, however, be controlled and protected from danger. An electric horse fence is an effective method, especially when you must be away from the horse for lengthy periods.
Electric fencing is a line connecting to the fence line and an energizer that generates an invisible border that the horse can easily see but not humans. If a horse comes into contact with the wire, it will zap.
Furthermore, electric fencing can be placed around the whole perimeter of the horse’s pasture to keep the horse contained within the enclosed area.
The Advantages of Equine Electric Fences
A properly installed electric fence has various advantages for horse and animal owners. Equine electric fences provide three significant benefits over other forms of confinement systems.
- Electric fences are a safe and cost-effective alternative to traditional barbed wire fences. The most humane approach to confining horses and other large livestock is using an electric fence.
- An electric fence system can help keep animals healthy by keeping them away from roadways and locations to avoid ticks, illnesses, or pesticides.
- One of the handiest features of electric fencing for horses is that it can be made as invisible as needed, eliminating the need to view ugly poles and wires that are prevalent with barbed wire fences.
- People who own an electric horse fence report a considerable reduction in the time needed to install one. It is simple to install and requires little upkeep, making it an appealing alternative for many individuals.
- These fences usually survive longer than other forms of fencing.
The equine electrical fence consists of a wire connected to an electricity source and has a safety grounding wire attached to it. When a horse or animal comes into contact with the wire, they get shocked. These are very beneficial when you want to keep cattle in their enclosure but do not want to install an actual fence.
The Different Types of Horse Fencing
A horse fence is essential for holding and dividing horses, whether you have a large ranch or a little paddock. Whether your horses are in their paddock or have a gate into your main pasture, you’ll need this rugged and dependable fencing to keep them safe and out of mischief. Horse fence comes in a variety of styles, each with its function.
Permanent Horse Fencing
Permanent horse fences are a popular choice because they are simple and quick to maintain, giving several benefits to both the horse and the owner. Permanent horse fencing allows the horse to graze on the grass whenever they choose, and it is vital for horses who are rebellious and may escape if not penned in.
The fencing is also useful for grazing and turnout, allowing the horse to spend time in both the pasture and the paddock.
Mobile Horse Fencing
Horse owners who wish to save time and effort while keeping their horses safe might use the mobile fence. A mobile horse fence is built up ahead of time and relocated as the horses travel throughout the pastures or paddocks.
A horse owner may utilize a mobile horse fence to keep their horses secure while also providing them with access to water and food.
Horse Wire
Horse wire, often known as barbed wire, is a form of fencing wire that helps to keep horses and other animals in and out of different portions of a fenced pasture. To prevent confusion about barbed wire, many people refer to it as barbwire.
It features a smooth wire surface with tiny, pointy ‘barbs’ around one side. This can cause wounds to anyone who handles it carelessly.
Fencing Tape for Horses
Fencing tape comes in two varieties: white plastic ribbon for marking the perimeter of a horse’s pen and yellow plastic ribbon for marking the legal borders of the ring in a horse show. Both types of fencing tape are available in a range of thicknesses and lengths, and some are self-adhesive.
Mesh Fence
A Mesh fence is yet another kind of fencing. A Mesh fence is an aid for security as well as aesthetic purposes. The holes in the wire mesh prevent cats from climbing over, and it also looks amazing.
Pipe Fencing
Pipe fencing is a fence constructed of galvanized steel pipe. This fence is simple to build and reasonably priced. It consists of steel pipes that have been welded or bolted together.
The pipes are around 3 feet (1 meter) tall and available in various sizes. The pipes are welded together in a zig-zag pattern and are typically 10 feet (3 meters) long. The ends are steel-capped, and openings on the sides allow the posts to pass through.
Wood Rail Fencing
A wood rail fence is a wonderful option for your purposes, but it is far from the only one. Wood fences consist of paint and stain to match your taste, and they can last for decades.
You might link a wooden fence to your driveway using concrete posts and footers for more durable construction. You will need to employ a concrete contractor to assist you with this.
If you are unsure of what you are doing, you may want to employ a professional instead of risking something so irreversible.
Vinyl Rail Fencing
A vinyl rail fence is a popular choice since it is simple to repair, does not need to be painted regularly, and is strong. A vinyl rail fence is also less expensive than other types of fencing.
Vinyl fences consist of vinyl, a fabric commonly used in tablecloths and plastic chairs. It is the same fabric that aids in vinyl siding.
Synthetic Fencing
Synthetic fencing is becoming increasingly popular among horse owners and stables due to the multiple benefits it offers. The artificial fence is also known as vinyl, PVC, and plastic fencing.
Durable plastic that is impervious to rot and insects help in constructing this type of fence. Unlike wood fences, this form of fencing will not decay or splinter, and it is extremely weather resistant. It is also less costly than the wood fence and easier to build.
Prolyrope Fencing
Prolyrope is a horse fence that comes in an easy-to-install mesh version. It is a versatile fence material that is both sturdy and flexible. Its main advantage is that it allows cattle and animals to see through it. This is essential for horse security.
Electric Fencing
Electric fencing for horses is not a new concept or technology, but with the discovery and enhancement of wireless electric fence energizers, it is gaining popularity.
One of the greatest methods to keep your horse safe in his paddock is to lock him in using an electric fence. There are many electric fence systems for horses available, including electric fencing for horses and electric fencing for ponies. An electric fence for horses is convenient if you have an elderly horse or one sensitive to being handled on the head.
Our Best Pick for Electrified Equine Fences
Fencing is one of the most crucial investments you’ll make for your horse. You’ll want something strong, long-lasting, and secure for your horse. You’ll also want something that will look well in your yard. The ElectroBraid PBRC1000C2-EB 1000 ft. Reel - Electric Fencing Designed for Horses is the ideal alternative for an electrified horse fence.
This heavy-duty electric equine fencing intends to keep undesirable pests out while keeping your horse in. It includes everything you’ll need to put up this fence in your yard. The package includes a reel and two strands of wire, allowing you to start immediately. This fence system is built to last and will keep your horse secure in your yard.
Solar Fencing VS. Electric Fencing
While both solar fences and electric fencing accomplish the same task, they provide distinct possibilities based on your need. The solar fence is a more environmentally friendly and recyclable alternative, whereas electric fencing horses work with the existence of a power grid.
Solar fencing is appropriate for small yards and low-traffic regions but not for bigger yards or high-traffic areas. Electric fence, commonly known as high tension fencing, is appropriate for any size yard or busy location.
The solar fence is also available at a variety of pricing points. An electric fence is a conventional, less expensive alternative that is also simple to build. The major downside of electric fences is the frequent purchasing of new components.
Your Horse Electric Fence Buying Guide
With so many horse fences to select from, it can be tough to know which one is right for you. How do you know the size and kind to choose? Check out our information to assist you in selecting the best horse fence for your needs.
Durability
When it comes to electric fences for horses, always go with a high-strength wall. A flimsy fence is more likely to collapse and injure your horse. Choose fence wire whose coat is a protective poly coating for the greatest results. This will ensure that the fence can endure UV light exposure without breaking down.
Break Weight
When selecting a portable electric fence for horses, it is critical to consider the break weight. A larger brake weight makes it less probable that your huge horses will be able to break through the fence. Big horses should have a high break weight.
Installation
When selecting an electric fence, choose one that is simple to install and reel in. A decent electric fence will include a spool that makes unrolling and reeling back in simple. You should have little trouble installing any of the fence alternatives listed above.
Fencing Height
Horses have exceptional vision and agility. The leaping that often occurs in fields or over fences amongst horses is a natural aptitude for these animals. Your horse can leap any fence, provided it is the proper fence.
Distance Between Electric Fencing
For the electric cables, they employ a systematic arrangement. This keeps horses from getting into contact with the power wires. This usually happens to stop horses from starting fires.
Fencepost Distances
The space between the posts is critical. If the posts are too wide apart, the fence will be weak, and the wire will droop, reducing the fence’s safety. Furthermore, because moveable fence posts do not penetrate the ground as deeply as fixed fence posts, they must be put closer together for stability.
Equine Fences At A Glance
- ElectroBraid PBRC1000C2-EB 1000 ft. Reel - Electric Fencing Designed for Horses (Best overall electric fence)
- Farmily Portable Electric Fence Polywire (Best portable electric fence)
- Gallagher Electric Fence Poly Wire (Best durable electric fence)
- Baygard 795 1/4X656' ELEC ROPEWHITE Poly Electric Rope (Best secure electric fence)
- Zareba PW656Y6-Z Polywire 200-Meter 6-Conductor Portable Electric-Fence Rope (Best conductor electric fence)
What are The Best Electric Fences for Horses?
If you own horses, you know how difficult it is to keep them in a fenced-in area. The natural nature of a horse is to go free, which might be harmful if you live in a rural region with big pastures. Electric fences allow you to keep your horses secure while also giving them the necessary exercise.
ElectroBraid PBRC1000C2-EB 1000 ft. Reel - Electric Fencing Designed for Horses (Best Overall Electric Fence)
List of Features
- Amazon’s Choice Award for “electro braid horse fencing.”
- Brand: ElectroBraid
- Colour: Speckled
- Item weight: 12.1 pounds (3.6 kg)
- Item dimension: 8.3 x 8.3 x 11.8 inches (21 x 21 x 29cm)
- Item Length: 1,000 Ft of Line (304 meters)
- Protection:
- Rating: 5
ElectroBraid is the most popular choice for equestrian fences in America because it is safe, secure, and simple to install. This 1,000-foot (304 meters) checkered Electrobraid spool contains a double helix of copper wire conductors woven into the polyester fiber jacket.
The Braid’s core is polypropylene, which is flexible and allows the Braid to stretch rather than shatter when tested by horses. ElectroBraid acts as both a physical and psychological barrier that horses learn to respect. Horse experts strongly suggest this 14-inch (35 cm) thick Braid for its safety.
ElectroBraid complies with the stringent testing requirements established for seatbelts and parachute harnesses, assuring a reliable product. Enjoy a permanent fence that doesn’t need tensioning to withstand weather and stress and that will keep horses from being hurt by impacts.
Pros
- This rope has a breaking strength of 1,300 pounds (589 kg).
- The seatbelt and parachute industries set high standards for construction, and ElectroBraid’s barrier is no exception.
- This fence is safe for horses and comes highly recommended by veterinarians.
- ElectroBraid fence is made of copper, making it both safe and effective.
Cons
- A bit on the pricey side but well worth the money.
Farmily Portable Electric Fence Polywire (Best Portable Electric Fence)
List of Features
- Brand: Farmily
- Colour: Yellow and Black Color
- Fence weight: 2.4 pounds (1 kg)
- Fence size dimension: 7 x 5 x 5 inches (18 x 12 x 12 cm)
- Fence length: 1,312 Ft of Line (400 meters
- Protection: UV resistant
- Permanent or Temporary: Permanent
- Rating: 4.8
The Farmily Portable Electric Fence Polywire is ideal for transitional pastures and rotational grazing. Its bright colors increase visibility, and its simple reel-in and reel-out design make relocation and storage a pleasure.
This temporary electric fence for horses’ material is a UV-stabilized polymer webbing and stainless steel wires, which makes it durable and long-lasting. The high conductivity of the material makes it an ideal choice for electric fences for horses.
This product should be used in combination with a permanent fence and is not advisable for use with high-tension fencing.
Pros
- This fence is simple to erect and may be used to create temporary corrals.
- This fence has a conductivity range of up to 1,312 feet (400 meters).
- This fencing will not wear out due to the UV-stabilized polymer webbing.
- The fence is strong while also protecting against injury.
Cons
- It is inadvisable to utilize the continuous-current output.
Gallagher Electric Fence Poly Wire (Best Durable Electric Fence)
List of Features
- Amazon’s Choice Award for “electric fence accessories.”
- Brand: Horizon distribution
- Colour: Grey
- Fence weight: 3.35 pounds (1.5 kg)
- Fence size dimension: 5.2 x 5.2 x 8.8 inches (13.2 x 13.2 x 22 cm)
- Fence Length: 1,312 (400 meters) Ft of Line
- Protection: UV resistant
- Temporary or Permanent: Both
- Rating: 4.5
This Gallagher Poly Wire is useful for keeping animals in or out and is suitable for both short and long-term usage. Poly Wire fence is a great technique to keep wildlife and cattle away from crops, orchards, and gardens. You may trim it to fit the area, making it excellent for different sizes of horse enclosures as well as fixing damaged fence lines.
This electric fence wire for horses is six interwoven stainless-steel strands for consistent conductivity up to 1312 feet (400m). It is corrosion and UV-resistant, so that it will survive for years of constant usage on the farm.
Gallagher Poly Wire is a flexible and simple-to-use electric fence wire that goes with any electric fencing reel. It is light and simple to install, repair, cut, splice, and rewind, making it an excellent choice for many applications.
Pros
- The poly wire design guarantees UV resistance and long-lasting protection.
- The fence is 1,312 feet (400 meters) long with a 328-foot (100 meters) bonus roll.
- This Gallagher fence is suitable for use in any location.
- It provides consistent conductivity for up to 656 feet (200 meters).
Cons
- It does not work underground.
Baygard 795 1/4X656' ELEC ROPEWHITE Poly Electric Rope (Best Secure Electric Fence)
List of Features
- Brand: Baygard
- Colour: White
- Fence weight: 5.77 pounds (2.6 kg)
- Fence size dimension: 7 x 6 x 10 inches (17 x 15 x 25 cm)
- Fence Length: 656 Ft (200 meters) of Line
- Protection: UV resistant
- Temporary or Permanent: Temporary
- Rating: 4.5
The Baygard horse fence is a fantastic choice if you need a long-lasting electric fence for your horses. This fencing keeps your horses secure by deterring them from approaching the wall. The conductivity is high, yet it will not hurt your horses.
This horse fence is 656 feet (200 meters) long and in conjunction with a permanent fencing system. It is ideal for transferring horses from pasture to pasture or for temporary corralling. Baygard fence is made of fibrillated polyethylene and has six conductor strands.
This material is long-lasting and can endure all sorts of weather and sun exposure without deterioration or harm.
When I switched pastures, I found this fence exceedingly simple to build and remove. This horse fence, with a break weight of 850 pounds (386 kg), is suitable for many applications. It’s ideal for erecting a temporary corral for pasture upkeep.
This fencing is brilliant white, making it quite visible. You do not want to run into an electric fence while it is activated. The excitement is indescribable! Having said that, the currency you use is critical. The stream should be strong enough to dissuade your horses while not hurting them.
Pros
- The sturdy and long-lasting structure will keep this fencing in good condition.
- This fence has a break resistance of 850 pounds (386 kg).
- This fencing is highly conspicuous due to its white hue.
- Due to the numerous placement options, this fence is flexible.
Cons
- This fence does not have the maximum break weight, yet it is enough for most horse fencing requirements.
Zareba PW656Y6-Z Polywire 200-Meter 6-Conductor Portable Electric-Fence Rope (Best Conductor Electric Fence)
List of Features
- Amazon’s Choice Award for “electro braid horse fencing.”
- Brand: Zareba Systems
- Colour: Yellow and Black Color
- Fence weight: 1.55 pounds (0.7 kg)
- Fence size dimension: 3.7 x 3.6 x 5.65 inches (10 x 9 x 14 cm)
- Fence Length: 656 Ft (200 meters) of Line
- Portable: Yes
- Protection: UV resistant
- Temporary or Permanent: Temporary
- Rating: 4.2
We wanted to ensure we looked into Zareba’s six-strand conductor wire because it is a well-known brand among equestrians. This 656-foot (200 meters) spool is available in yellow and green. The yellow makes it easy to spot since it stands out from your pasture grass.
With a break weight of 180 pounds (81 kg), this fence is perfect for smaller horses and temporary corrals. Zareba fence is resilient, withstanding all sorts of weather without deterioration, corrosion, or damage.
Despite its robust design, this poly wire fence is lightweight and simple to install in most situations. This fencing should connect to a permanent fencing solution for the greatest results.
This Zareba fencing, like other electric fencing, has six strands of conductive wire to provide complete conduction. This wire fencing may be reused several times and is simple to splice or repair.
Pros
- Due to its small weight, this fence is simple to set up almost anywhere.
- The poly-coated wire provides UV protection.
- This fence has six conduction wires for increased conduction strength.
- The fence is reusable.
Cons
- The reduced brake weight makes it unsuitable for big horses.
FAQs on Electrified Equine Fences
One of the most often asked concerns concerning electrified horse fence systems is how to electrify them. Electrifying your fence is a simple process that entails connecting your charger to the fence wires, so your fence is ready to use.
If you are unclear about how to proceed, please see our article on electrifying a fence for additional details. Another often asked issue regarding electric equestrian fencing is whether or not it would injure my horse.
There are several reasons for this, and we have summarized them here, along with solutions to each.
Are Electric Fences Safe for Horses?
If you’re considering installing an electric fence in your horse paddock, you’re undoubtedly wondering if electricity is safe for horses.
In actuality, there are several methods to make an electric fence safe for horses, and it may be an excellent technique to keep your horses in the paddock and away from areas where they should not be.
How Much Grounding Is Needed for an Electric Fence?
The amount of ground needed to ground a fence depends on the type of fence charger used, the horse electric fence voltage, and the fence’s current. An electric fence for horses’ voltage electrifies at 36 volts or higher will typically require between ten and twenty feet of ground rods to be grounded.
The precise location of the rods is typically not a concern as long as the appropriate length of ground rods is employed. Installing the ground rods requires exceptionally dry soil and a space free of rocks.
If the location is at risk of becoming too dry, the rods can be stored in a water container until needed. The ground rods can be submerged in a full container of water if the area has a lot of rocks.
Will My Horses Remember the Fence Is Electric?
It is hard to predict how each horse will react to an electric fence. Everyone has a unique personality and a varied threshold for getting shocked.
Even horses with positive experiences with electric fences might have issues when their surroundings change (such as a new fence charger, new fence, new location, etc.).
Changes in a horse’s habit might make him more fearful. If any of your horses have a history of misbehaving around electric fences, it’s best if you keep them out of the field while you install the wall.
Is a Fence Energizer Necessary?
A fence energizer is a device that supplies power to an electric fence. Fence energizers are of two types: low-impedance (also known as “AC-powered”) and high-impedance (also known as “DC-powered”).
Most expert installers recommend an AC-powered energizer for most farms. For most farms, the AC-powered energizer is the superior option. Why? Simply put, the AC-powered energizer is the better option.
Final Verdict
To summarize, while most electric fencing systems keep horses in, horse owners may also use electric fences to keep them out on occasion.
This is especially true when horses have health difficulties, such as Cushing’s disease, which prevents them from receiving adequate exercise, or when horses are injured and must stay inside until they recuperate.
Suppose you need a new electric fence for your horse, the ElectroBraid PBRC1000C2-EB 1000 ft. Reel - Electric Fencing Designed for Horses is a collection of the greatest electric fencing items currently available.
This fencing wire is a flexible braid that adds elasticity and allows it to expand as needed. A double-stranded steel wire core adds to its great tensile strength and longevity.
Because it comes on a spool with a reel, the electric fence for horses is safe and simple to install. This helps to prevent tangles and makes them easier to control and handle.
