How to Groom a Horse Properly
Regular grooming is important to keep your horse's coat clean comfortable. Groom before and after every ride. Dirt and debris under tack can cause irritation and lead to problems. Grooming after a ride removes sweat and massages muscles. Daily grooming, as described here, differs from more detailed show grooming, which may include bathing, clipping the coat, and/or braiding or plaiting the mane and tail.
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Things You'll Need
- Rubber curry comb
- Body brush or dandy brush (stiff bristles)
- Soft bristle finishing brush
- Hoof pick
- Plastic mane and tail comb
- Soft cloths or rags
- Sponge
Instructions
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Secure your haltered horse by tying it up to a post or better, cross-tying it in the aisle of the barn. Assemble all of your grooming tools and have them handy so the horse will not be left unattended. Work calmly and gently, especially around young horses.
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Curry your horse, starting high on the neck with a brisk, circular motion. Currying dislodges mud and dirt from your horse's coat while stimulating circulation. Work down one side of your horse, head to tail, and repeat on the other side. Avoid the bony parts of the face, lower legs and spine. Some groomers hold a dandy brush in one hand and a curry in the other, brushing away dirt as they curry.
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Stiff brush, using rapid, flicking motions to sweep dirt particles up and out of the coat. You should see dirt coming to the surface or flying into the air as you brush. Do not use a stiff brush on the face, ears or bony parts.
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Brush your horse using the soft brush, which flattens the hair to its normal position. Use the soft brush on the lower legs, belly and face, but be careful around the horse's eyes, nose and mouth. Don't forget to lift the forelock and gently brush the forehead.
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Comb or soft brush the mane and tail. Manes and tails may be groomed differently depending on the breed and style. Begin at the ends and work toward the base. Tails may be combed or brushed. Stand to the side of your horse when combing the tail.
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Clean around your horse's eyes, ears and nostrils. Use a soft cloth or damp sponge. Finish by rubbing a soft cloth over the coat to bring out the shine.
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Lift your horse's feet and inspect the hooves and shoes. Use a hoof pick to remove lodged debris and mud from around the frog.
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Tips & Warnings
Horses are unpredictable animals. Move gently and speak softly while grooming and keep your safety in mind. If you don't know how to properly pick up your horse's feet, ask your farrier or someone knowledgeable to teach you.
