Boxstallen

Boxstallen, or box stalls, are a common form of housed horse housing consisting of individually enclosed stalls within a stable. They are designed to provide a secure, dry, and comfortable space for a single horse, allowing controlled feeding, turnout planning, and routine management. Box stalls are intended to reduce horse-on-horse conflicts and simplify daily care, including grooming, medical checks, and isolation when needed.

Design and construction typically include solid partitions, stable doors with safe latches, and a non-slip floor surface. Bedding such as wood shavings, straw, or rubber mats is used to absorb moisture and cushion the horse. Adequate ventilation, natural or mechanical, helps manage ammonia and dust, while lighting is arranged to support normal day-night cycles. Materials vary and can include wood, metal, or composites, chosen for durability and ease of cleaning. Water access and feeding arrangements are usually located at or near the stall door for efficiency.

Management and welfare considerations emphasize adequate space for lying down, standing, and turning around, along with proper drainage and regular bedding upkeep. Daily cleaning, manure removal, and fresh bedding are essential. While box stalls offer controlled environments, they can limit movement compared with turnout or loose housing, so facilities often pair stalls with regular exercise, paddocks, or walking areas to maintain health and fitness. Box stalls are widely used in modern equestrian facilities around the world, including riding schools, sport stables, and breeding operations, where consistent care and safety standards are maintained.