How many riding days per week does a horse share have?

In Switzerland, one to two fixed days per week is usual. The exact count depends on the horse's training need, the owner's time and the agreed monthly contribution.

What splitting models exist?

Fixed weekdays, 2-3-2 rhythm with alternating count, and alternating weeks. Fixed weekdays are most predictable and suit most partnerships.

Who has priority on holidays?

Should be agreed in writing in advance. The owner usually keeps priority on conflict. Holidays announced two to four weeks ahead.

What happens with bad weather or last-minute cancellation?

A cancellation deadline of one to two days for planned appointments. If a day drops for storm, the day is usually cancelled without automatic rescheduling.

Guide

Sharing riding days fairly in a horse share: models and template

2 min read

Sharing a horse needs a clear split of riding days. When does the owner ride, when the sharer, and what applies for holidays or bad weather? This guide presents the common models and gives a template for a fair arrangement.

Why a clear split is essential

A horse share lives from reliability. The horse must move regularly, the owner needs her own days, and the sharer wants a stable place in stable life. Without agreement, double bookings, skipped training and a feeling of shortfall arise.

In Switzerland, one to two fixed days per week is the norm (reitbeteiligungen.ch).

The three common models

Fixed weekdays. Sharer rides always the same days, e.g. every Tuesday and Friday. Pro: maximum planning. Con: little flexibility.

2-3-2 rhythm. Day count alternates biweekly. Pro: fair when odd day counts. Con: must be tracked.

Alternating weeks. Both sides share whole weeks. Pro: coherent time blocks. Con: long pauses between own days.

For most partnerships, fixed weekdays is simplest and most stable.

Holidays and absences

Holidays are the main stumbling block. A simple rule: whoever plans an absence announces early. Missed day swapped if possible, not cancelled.

Owner priority on conflict, since the horse belongs to her.
Replacement on long absence: other side takes extra days for movement.
Announcement period: two to four weeks for planned holidays.

Cancellations and bad weather

Not every day can be held. Illness, storm, ice on the arena belong to horse life.

Cancellation deadline: one to two days for planned appointments.
Rain or storm: day cancelled or rescheduled if possible.
Horse illness: horse welfare before riding schedule.

Communicating factually without blame avoids most friction.

Six-point agreement template

Days per week (e.g. two fixed).
Chosen model: fixed weekdays, 2-3-2 or alternating weeks.
Concrete days: e.g. Tuesday and Friday for the sharer.
Holiday rule: announcement period and conflict priority.
Cancellation rule: deadline for planned cancellations, bad weather handling.
Communication channel: where days, swaps and cancellations are noted.

These points belong ideally in the written agreement.

Swiss practice: one to two days and a shared calendar

Swiss horse shares settle at one to two fixed days per week. Often in late afternoon/evening or weekend. A digital shared calendar is worth gold, especially in a busy stable.

Frequently asked questions

Riding days per week? One to two fixed in Switzerland.

Splitting models? Fixed weekdays, 2-3-2 rhythm, alternating weeks. Fixed simplest.

Holiday priority? Owner usually. Announce two to four weeks ahead.

Bad weather or cancellation? One to two-day deadline for planned.

Sources

Organize days in HorseCompanion

Fixed days, swaps, holidays and cancellations are noted in a shared calendar visible to all. Start for free

Updated: June 2026