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Donkeys need dry ground. This surprises many people. A lush green meadow looks like paradise. For donkeys, it is often too much of a good thing. Their ancestors come from the barren, dry regions of Northeast Africa. Their bodies, hooves, and digestive systems are adapted to this. In this article, you will learn why sand, gravel, and sparse grass are better suited for donkeys than rich pastureland and what a good turnout looks like.
Their origin explains a lot
The domestic donkey is descended from the African wild ass. It lives in semi-deserts and rocky mountains. There is little water and little food. The animals travel long distances and eat tough, fibrous plants.
Our domestic donkeys also carry this adaptation. Their bodies digest sparse food very thoroughly. Their hooves are made for hard, dry ground. Their coats are adapted to dry heat, not to continuous rain. What is an advantage in the desert quickly becomes a challenge in Central Europe.
Why a lush meadow is problematic
Young, lush grass contains a lot of sugar and energy. A donkey needs very little of it. If it stands on rich pasture all day, it takes in more energy than it uses. It will quickly become too fat. This puts a strain on its joints and hooves.
Laminitis is particularly feared. This is a painful inflammation in the hooves. Too much sugar in the food is considered a common trigger. We explain in detail what donkeys are allowed to eat and what they are not in the post What are donkeys allowed to eat?.
Wet ground and donkey hooves
Donkey hooves are harder and steeper than horse hooves. On hard, dry ground, they wear down evenly. This does not happen on soft, wet ground. The horn becomes soft. Cracks and infections can develop more easily. Mud that sticks to the hooves permanently is also unfavorable.
Then there is the coat. It is less water-repellent than that of horses. Donkeys therefore need shelter where they can stand dry in the rain.
| Ground | Suitability for donkeys | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Sand | very good | dry, soft for joints, good for rolling |
| Gravel or grit | good | dry, promotes natural hoof wear |
| Sparse, lean pasture | good, for limited periods | little sugar, lots of fiber |
| Rich, fertilized pasture | only for a few hours | too much energy and sugar |
| Permanently muddy ground | unsuitable | soft horn, hoof problems |
This is what a good donkey turnout looks like
A good turnout reflects the donkey's origin. It does not have to be large and green. It should be dry, varied, and safe. This is how you set it up:
- Create a dry area: Set up a paddock with sand or gravel. It should also dry out quickly after rain.
- Build shelter: Donkeys need protection from rain, wind, and blazing sun. An open stable is often enough.
- Set up a rolling area: A sand pit for rolling is part of coat care.
- Limit grazing time: Let donkeys graze only for a few hours, especially in spring.
- Offer roughage: Straw and high-fiber hay should make up the majority of the food.
- Provide enrichment: Branches to gnaw on, stones, small hills. Donkeys are curious and need variety.
- Never keep them alone: Donkeys are herd animals. At least two donkeys belong together.
Check the hooves regularly. A farrier should come about every six to ten weeks. On dry ground, the hooves usually stay in better shape.
In spring and after rain following a dry spell, grass becomes particularly rich in sugar. You should especially limit grazing times then.
What this has to do with donkey milk
Donkeys produce very little milk. A donkey gives only two to three liters a day, and only when her foal is with her. A donkey on rich pasture does not give more milk. Donkey milk remains a rare food. Anyone who wants to try it can start with our Mini Duo: fresh donkey milk and donkey milk powder in small quantities.
Donkeys and horses: different needs
Many donkeys live together with horses. This can work well. But the keeping conditions should meet the needs of both. Horses can generally tolerate more energy in their food. Donkeys need less. A pasture that is suitable for horses is often too rich for donkeys.
They also differ in their needs regarding the weather. Horses have a thicker, fattier winter coat that repels water better. Donkeys get wet to the skin more quickly. Shelter that horses hardly use is essential for donkeys.
Anyone who keeps both species divides the area. An area with sand and roughage for the donkeys, a pasture area for the horses. Occasional joint turnout is still possible.
Water, minerals, and enrichment
Donkeys drink less than horses, but they need fresh, clean water at all times. It must not freeze in winter. Many donkeys prefer lukewarm water to ice-cold water.
A lick stone or mineral feed tailored to donkeys is part of the basic equipment. Ask your veterinarian about this.
Boredom is an underestimated issue. A donkey in a small, empty paddock will quickly start messing with fences, bark, or stable walls. Distribute the roughage in several places. Offer branches to gnaw on, such as willow or hazel. A walk with a human brings additional variety and strengthens the bond between human and animal.
Frequently asked questions
Are donkeys even allowed on the pasture?
Yes, but only for limited periods. Lean pastures and short grazing times are better than grazing all day on rich pasture.
Why do donkeys roll around in the sand?
Rolling around is part of coat care. It also helps against annoying insects and is a sign of well-being.
Do donkeys need a stable?
They need shelter. Their coat is less water-repellent than that of horses. In the rain, they must be able to stand dry.
What type of ground is ideal for donkey hooves?
Dry, firm ground such as sand or gravel. It ensures natural wear and keeps the horn hard.
