How long should a new horse settle in?

Answer by  sixinthenw (36)

Horses are herd animals and until he feels comfortable in his new herd, i. e. any new possible stablemates and handlers such as yourself, he will be on edge. Within a week to ten days you should expect to see him relax and accept his new surroundings with more confidence.

Answer by  Roland27 (16334)

If you have other horses don't put the new horse in the pasture with them. Put the new horse in a different paddock or a round pen where the other horses can see it. After about 4 days you can introduce the new horse to the old ones.

Answer by  Appaloo2u2 (32)

Some horses take longer to settle in than others but a few days is usually enough. If you have access to a corral or round pen that would be best to start with. Hand walking the horse to socialize and familiarize them with their new surroundings. I would not recommend turning a new horse out into the pasture after dark.