courtesy of OSU Extension
Stallion behavior in the breeding shed is shaped by natural instincts, training, and management practices. Proper handling is crucial to ensure safety for both the handlers and the horses. Clear routines, calm environments, and careful supervision contribute to successful breeding sessions while minimizing risks.
Teach The Stallion A Routine
Consistent handling that the stallion can predict and feel comfortable with will help lower anxiety. Use the same equipment, handlers, etc. and follow the same procedure for every collection. Even the smallest overlooked thing can affect a stallion’s behavior and willingness to collect. For example, horses learn to associate the sound of spurs with being saddled and ridden; likewise when a handler pulls a stallion out of the stall without wearing spurs, this can initiate the thought process of going to the breeding shed.
Increase The Number Of Times He Breeds
While you may not need to breed or collect the stallion, more practice and repetition may decrease his level of arousal. This also will help with establishing a routine.
Teach The Stallion To Go The Pace Of The Handler
The stallion must not be allowed to drag the handler or engage in circling around them while they are trying to slow the stallion. Work on such simple handling behaviors, such as stop, stand and back up when asked. Practice this outside of the breeding shed as well. Make certain that the stallion moves away when the handler is walking towards him. It is essential for the safety of everyone in the breeding shed that the stallion respects the space of the handler and has basic manners before entering the breeding shed for the first time.
Consider His Housing
The horses housed adjacent to the stallion can have tremendous impacts on breeding behavior. Timid or reluctant breeders may need to be housed near mares to boost their confidence and interest. Stallions will decrease their testosterone, which lowers libido, if housed around more active stallions. Stallions housed near more dominant stallions may help to temper their behavior. Monitor changes closely. If the stallion is not being collected often enough, it can cause sexual frustration.
Be Fair!
Over-the-top or harsh discipline is unnecessary. Most stallions can be taught very good manners with just a normal breeding halter and a chain over the nose or through the mouth/over the gums. If using a gum chain, the handler must be very aware of their handling and not cause any damage or pain to the horse by excessive jerking. It takes very little pressure to get a response with a gum chain and extensive damage can be caused if used improperly.
Make Breeding Less Exciting
Experiment with not having a mare present, or only estrus urine in the breeding shed. Place the mare further away or have limited access. Ovariectomized mares are also less exciting than a mare in natural estrus. If using an artificial vagina, play with lowering the temperature and pressure (while still making it acceptable to the stallion) to lessen its stimulation.
Punish Bad Behavior
This will allow both of you to calm down. If behavior is unacceptable, put the stallion back in his stall for a little while. Reward for good behavior as well. Something as simple as getting additional turnout or hand grazing can help him get down to business.