As autumn sets in, horses begin shedding their summer coat and grow thicker winter coats. This process varies by breed, with fine-skinned Thoroughbreds and Warmbloods growing less, while native ponies develop dense, double-layered coats. Clipping a horse removes this winter coat to help keep them comfortable during hard work in colder months, but clipped horses will need appropriate rugging to stay warm.
Clipping is done primarily to prevent excessive sweating when horses work during the colder months. The removal of thick coats allows body heat to escape, reducing chill risk post-exercise and easing grooming. Horses that work indoors or are ridden intensively, such as riding school or hunt horses, benefit greatly. The coat reacts to daylight changes starting late August, so clipping is especially useful in mild autumn and early spring days when temperatures fluctuate.
Choosing the right clip depends on your horse's workload, coat type, and climate. Here are the common clip types with their features and purposes:
Typically, a smaller clip is applied first, progressing to more extensive clipping as the season advances. Depending on coat growth and work intensity, clipping may be repeated several times during winter. February is often the final clip timing to prevent interference with spring coat development triggered by lengthening daylight.
Since clipping removes natural insulation, rugging is essential when horses are not working. Choose rug weight and style considering the horse’s breed and how much coat was removed. For example, Thoroughbreds usually need heavier rugs than native ponies, who naturally grow insulating double coats and often do not require rugs if they have shelter and forage.
Over-rugging uncut native ponies is discouraged as it compresses the natural air pockets in their coats, reducing their insulation ability. Always assess each horse individually, factoring in age, health, environment, and weather when deciding if rugs are needed.
Clipping is a skill and requires patience, especially when introducing young or nervous horses. Clippers are noisy, vibrate, and use electricity, so it's important to proceed cautiously:
Some horses, for example those with Cushing's disease, grow unusually thick and curly coats year-round. These horses might require clipping more frequently and outside typical seasonal schedules to maintain comfort.
Additionally, vets may clip small areas for treatment or examination of wounds, making it beneficial for horses to be familiar with the clipping process even if they are not clipped regularly.
Clipping your horse is a valuable winter care practice that greatly enhances comfort for working horses by preventing excessive sweating and aiding coat management. To achieve the best results, prepare your horse and equipment carefully, choose the appropriate clip style, and ensure correct technique and aftercare including rugging. With experience, clipping becomes easier and more effective, supporting both your horse's well-being and your management of winter riding demands.
Explore responsible clipping techniques and invest time in your horse’s comfort this winter season to keep them healthy, happy, and ready to perform.