Before considering the planning and construction of a stable, lets consider briefly the reasons for providing stables. Nature has provided the horse in its natural environment the necessary protection from the weather. The thickness of its coat, the natural oils in the skin, and the fact that the animal may move about freely, are all adequate protection from inclement conditions. A horse living under such conditions, however, is fit only for the lightest of work.

It is only after we interfere in this natural environment that stabling becomes necessary. A horse in full work needs to be fit and kept clean. To obtain this condition requires the removal of surplus fat, a clipped coat and regular grooming. Thus not only is the coat thinned, but regular cleaning and grooming take away a large proportion of the coats natural protective oils. Removal of the horses natural defense mechanisms necessitates the implementation of artificial methods of protection, by means of blankets and stables. Stables have, therefore, to provide to a great extent the protection to the animal which has been removed by the requirements of work and cleanliness.