How to Groom a Horse for a Show

While training is key during a horse show, even the best performance horses will be overlooked without the proper grooming. Preparing your horse for show can be a difficult job. However, tending to the fine details will ensure that your horse stands out among the rest.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Clippers
• Currycomb
• Soft-bristled brush
• Hoof polish
• Baby oil
• Baby powder

1. Clip your horse's coat no later than a week before the show to give it time to fill in. Control the natural oils in your horse's coat by bathing him two or three days before the show. Most horses will roll after bathing, so use a currycomb or a soft-bristled brush to comb the coat regularly.
2. Trim your horse's mane and tail. You want the ends smooth and even, but with enough hair left to braid. Trim the mane so that the hair is not in the horse's eyes and trim the tail until it is no shorter than the knee joint. These guidelines may change depending on your type of show.
3. Groom your horse's hooves before the show. Have a professional farrier trim and reshod the horse, and then polish the hooves with hoof polish. Use black polish if the horse has black hooves. Otherwise, use clear polish.
4. Add shine to your horse's mane and tail the day of the show by applying a lightl layer of baby oil. Comb the hair and then place a few drops of oil in the palms of your hand. Massage the oil into the horse's hair. Don't use too much, or the animal's hair will appear oily.
5. Lightly dust any white spots on your horse with baby powder. Refrain from using too much. Baby powder can irritate your horse's sinuses and fall on colored areas on the coat. Start with a little to get an idea of how much you need.
6. Place the finishing touches on your horse before the show by adding braids, clipping its whiskers and applying a sheen to its coat.