How to Trim Horse Hair

Trimming horses is a relatively easy task as long as the animal is used to the noise of clippers and the sensation of its hair being cut. Horse hair growth is triggered by a reduction of sunlight during winter months. That is why it is best to clip hair between October and January. Anyone who is concerned about injury while clipping their horse can cover its mouth with a muzzle.

Things You'll Need

  • Muzzle
  • Dedicated horse hair clippers with well-oiled and sharpened blades
  • Clean cloth
  • Shedding blade
  • Curry comb
  • Finishing brush
  • Day sheet blanket
  • Anti-sweat blanket
  • Thick, evening blanket
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Instructions

    • 1

      Muzzle your horse to avoid any problems with biting while the animal gets used to the sound of clippers. You can turn the clippers on when not actually trimming the horse so as not to startle it. A trusted friend near the horse's head to reassure it throughout the clipping and trimming process helps.

    • 2

      Clip the bridal path first. This is the area around the mane where the crownpiece of the bridle sits, and if it is smooth it allows the bridal to lie flatter, making it more comfortable for the animal. Clip downward with the clippers with a straight cut, leaving half an inch of hair.

    • 3

      Shave around the edges of the ear. Clip downwards from the top of the ear by holding it flat.

    • 4

      Trim the muzzle. It is best to remove long hairs first with the shedding blades before doing the underside of the muzzle. Blend the depth of the cut at the cheeks to make it match the rest of the trim.

    • 5

      Move down the legs and continue clipping towards the ankle. Groom the back of the leg by working the clippers against the growth of the hair. Finish the trimming and cutting with sheering blades, and then tidy up with a curry comb and finishing brush.

    • 6

      Buy blankets to keep the animal warm if trimming horse hair during winter and the temperature drops . A light day sheet is needed for mild days, anti-sweat sheet for workouts and a heavy blanket for cold nights are preferable.