Horses come in two genders—male and female. Each has unique traits that affect their behavior, care, and role.
Some are strong and bold, while others are calm and nurturing. Knowing the differences helps in choosing the right horse for riding, breeding, or companionship.
Male horses can be energetic and challenging, while females often show patience and loyalty.
Whether you own a horse or plan to get one, understanding their gender is key. Let’s explore horse genders and the unique qualities that make each one special.
Male Horses
Colt
A colt is a young male horse under the age of four. At this stage, colts are energetic, curious, and still developing physically and mentally.
They are not yet mature for breeding and often require training to prepare them for riding or work.
Stallion
A stallion is a fully mature male horse that has not been gelded (castrated). Stallions are strong, muscular, and often have dominant behaviors.
They are commonly used for breeding due to their ability to produce offspring. Handling a stallion requires experience, as they can be aggressive and territorial.
Stud
The term “stud” refers to a stallion that is actively used for breeding. A stud horse is chosen for its desirable traits, such as strength, speed, or temperament, to pass on to future generations.
The place where breeding stallions are kept is also called a stud farm.
Gelding
A gelding is a male horse that has been castrated, meaning he cannot reproduce.
Geldings are calmer and easier to handle than stallions, making them popular for riding and competition.
Without the influence of male hormones, geldings often have a more predictable and even temperament.
Sire
The term “sire” refers to a male horse that has fathered offspring. A stallion becomes a sire once his foals are born.
The sire’s genetics are important in breeding, as they influence the characteristics and abilities of the next generation of horses.

Rig
A rig is a male horse with an undescended testicle or one that has been improperly castrated, meaning it may still exhibit stallion-like behaviors.
Rigs can sometimes be mistaken for geldings but may display aggression or dominance due to residual testosterone.
They often require special management to handle their unpredictable behavior.
Female Horses
Filly
A filly is a young female horse under the age of four. She’s full of energy, curiosity, and potential.
Fillies are playful, quick learners and often show early signs of their future personality.
Whether destined for riding, racing, or breeding, they need proper training and care to grow into strong, capable horses.
Mare
A mare is an adult female horse, typically over four years old. She’s mature, independent, and often carries a nurturing yet determined attitude.
Mares can be excellent partners for work, sport, or leisure. They form strong bonds with their owners and are known for their intelligence and reliability.
Interesting read: Mare in Heat Signs and Symptoms.
Broodmare
A broodmare is a mare chosen for breeding. Her job is to produce and raise healthy foals.
Broodmares are carefully selected for their genetics, temperament, and physical traits to ensure the best qualities are passed down.
They take on the crucial role of caring for their young and guiding them in their early years.
Dam
The term “dam” refers to a female horse that has given birth. She’s the mother, the source of life and nurture for her foals.
A dam’s influence is strong, shaping her offspring’s behavior, strength, and temperament.
In horse breeding, a dam’s lineage is just as important as the sire’s, playing a key role in a foal’s potential success.
Gender Neutral Terms
Foal
A foal is a baby horse, regardless of gender, usually under one year old. At this stage, foals are full of curiosity and energy, learning about their surroundings and developing key skills.
They stay close to their mothers for nourishment and protection, gradually becoming more independent.
Aged
An aged horse is an older horse, typically considered to be around 15 years or older.
Age can bring experience, wisdom, and a steady temperament, making aged horses great for beginners or less demanding work.
Proper care is essential to ensure their health and comfort in their senior years.
Yearling
A yearling is a horse that is one year old but not yet two. This stage is a time of rapid growth and learning.
Yearlings start to develop their muscles and coordination, preparing for future training.
They are often playful and curious but can be challenging to handle due to their youthful energy.
Weanling
A weanling is a foal that has been weaned, meaning it no longer relies on its mother’s milk. This usually happens around six months of age.
Weanlings begin to eat solid food and learn social behaviors from other horses.
It’s an important stage where they start to develop independence and confidence.
Horse Gender Chart
Category | Young | Standard | Parent | Breeding | Non-reproductive |
Male | Colt | Stallion/gelding | Sire | Stud | Gelding |
Female | Filly | Mare | Dam | Broodmare | N/A |
Physical Differences Between Male and Female Horses
Male and female horses have several physical differences that go beyond reproductive anatomy.
These differences can affect their performance, behavior, and suitability for various activities.
1. Size and muscle mass
Male horses, especially stallions, tend to have a more muscular and robust build compared to females.
Their necks are often thicker, their chests broader, and their bodies more defined due to higher testosterone levels.
Geldings, after castration, may retain some of this muscular build but are usually less bulky than stallions.
Mares, on the other hand, generally have a leaner and more refined body structure.
2. Head and neck shape
Stallions and geldings typically have larger, more pronounced jaws and broader foreheads, giving their heads a more rugged appearance.
Mares tend to have finer features with a more delicate and feminine look. Their necks are usually slimmer and more elegant in proportion.
3. Body proportions
Male horses often have a compact, powerful physique, ideal for strength-based activities like racing or working.
Female horses are usually longer-bodied with a more balanced and graceful appearance, making them well-suited for endurance.
4. Fat distribution
Mares tend to store fat differently than males, often carrying more around their midsection and hindquarters.
This is partly due to their role in reproduction and hormonal differences. Stallions and geldings tend to have a leaner, more muscular distribution of fat.
5. Coat and mane growth
Hormones can influence hair growth patterns. Stallions often develop thicker manes and tails compared to mares, which can appear fuller and coarser.
Mares have a softer, finer coat, but grooming and care play a significant role in maintaining their appearance.
6. Hoof structure
Mares may have smaller and more delicate hooves compared to their male counterparts.
Males often have larger, tougher hooves due to their generally heavier build and weight distribution.
7. Posture and movement
Stallions tend to carry themselves with a more dominant and assertive posture, often appearing more imposing.
Mares usually move with fluidity and grace, though their posture can change depending on their reproductive cycle.

Behavioral Differences Between Male and Female Horses
Male and female horses behave differently in many ways. Their instincts, hormones, and roles in the herd influence how they act.
1. Temperament
Stallions can be bold and dominant. They may challenge other horses and require experienced handling.
Geldings are usually calmer and easier to manage. Mares can be independent and sometimes moody, especially during their heat cycles.
2. Social behavior
Male horses, especially stallions, often try to establish dominance in a group. They may be territorial and protective.
Mares tend to form close bonds with other horses and work well in groups. They often take on leadership roles in a herd.
3. Training and handling
Geldings are steady and focused, making them easier to train. Stallions can be distracted, especially around mares.
Mares can be sensitive and quick learners but may show stubbornness at times.
4. Reaction to stress
Mares often react to stress with caution and alertness. They may become anxious but recover quickly.
Stallions may respond with aggression or assertiveness. Geldings usually stay calm and adapt easily to new situations.
5. Work ethic
Mares can be determined and hardworking, especially when they trust their handler. Geldings are consistent and reliable in their tasks.
Stallions may have bursts of energy but need firm guidance to stay focused.
6. Interaction with humans
Geldings are often friendly and affectionate. They enjoy attention and are less likely to show unpredictable behavior.
Mares can be loving but may have mood swings. Stallions need firm and confident handling to establish respect.
Fun Facts of Horse Genders
1. Stallions often carry themselves with confidence and pride, making them stand out in a herd with their bold and dominant posture.
2. In wild horse herds, mares usually take on leadership roles. They decide when and where the group moves, showing their natural leadership skills.
3. Geldings are often chosen for beginners because they have a calm and steady temperament, making them easier to train and handle.
4. Young female horses, called fillies, are known for their playful and curious nature. They love to explore their surroundings and interact with other horses.
5. Male foals, or colts, are often seen causing trouble in the pasture. They enjoy rough play and testing their boundaries with other horses.
6. Just like humans, mares can have mood changes due to their hormonal cycles. Some days they’re sweet and gentle, while other days they prefer their space.
7. Stallions often have thicker, longer manes compared to mares and geldings, adding to their majestic appearance.
8. A broodmare is carefully chosen for breeding based on her genetics, health, and temperament, making her vital in producing top-quality foals.
9. Since geldings don’t experience the stress of hormones like stallions, they often enjoy longer and healthier lives.
10. Mares are known for their sharp intelligence and problem-solving skills. They can quickly learn routines and adapt to new environments with ease.
Read also: Are Racehorses Male or Female?
Male Horse and Female Horse: FAQs
Can mares and geldings be kept together?
Yes, mares and geldings can usually be kept together without issues. Geldings are calm and lack the hormonal drive of stallions, making them good companions for mares. However, individual personalities matter.
What’s the difference between a stud and a stallion?
A stallion is an adult male horse that has not been gelded and is capable of breeding. A stud, on the other hand, refers to a stallion that is actively used for breeding purposes. The term “stud” can also refer to the breeding facility where stallions and mares are kept.
Horse Genders: Conclusion
Understanding horse genders helps in choosing the right horse for your needs.
Male and female horses have unique traits that affect their behavior, training, and care.
Stallions can be bold and strong, while mares are often smart and independent. Geldings are calm and reliable, making them great for riders of all levels.
Knowing these differences makes horse care easier and more enjoyable.
Whether you want a companion, a worker, or a competitor, picking the right horse gender is important.
Each horse is unique, and their personality matters just as much as their gender.