What is a gelding horse?

A gelding is a male horse that has been castrated (its testicles have been removed). This procedure significantly alters the horse's behavior and characteristics compared to a stallion (an intact male horse). Here's some information:

Behavioral Changes:

• Temperament: Geldings are generally calmer, more docile, and easier to handle than stallions. They are less prone to aggressive behavior, such as biting, kicking, and attempting to mount other horses. This makes them safer and more suitable for a wider range of riders, from beginners to experienced professionals.
• Focus: They tend to be more focused on work and less distracted by mares (female horses) in heat.
• Reduced Aggression: The removal of testosterone significantly reduces aggressive tendencies.

Physical Characteristics:

• No sexual characteristics: Geldings lack the strong musculature and pronounced secondary sexual characteristics of stallions, such as a thicker neck and more muscular build. Their behavior is less driven by sexual urges.
• Similar to mares in some aspects: Their temperament and physical build often fall somewhere between that of stallions and mares, though this can vary considerably depending on the individual horse's breed and genetics.

Uses:

Because of their generally calm and manageable temperaments, geldings are preferred for most equestrian disciplines, including:

• English riding: Dressage, jumping, eventing, hunting
• Western riding: Reining, cutting, trail riding
• Driving: Pulling carriages or carts
• General riding and pleasure riding: Simply enjoying leisurely rides.

Considerations:

• Timing of castration: The age at which a colt is gelded can influence his temperament and development.
• Individual variation: While generally calmer than stallions, geldings still possess individual personalities and can have varying temperaments. Some may be more spirited than others.
• Rare complications: Though uncommon, there are potential complications associated with castration surgery.

In summary, geldings are the most common type of horse found in riding schools, stables, and used for general riding because of their manageable temperament and suitability for a variety of riding disciplines.