Tips for Shaving the Muzzle of an Arabian Horse

Grooming your Arabian horse should be a part of its routine care but grooming for the show ring requires a little more work. Arabians are bold, beautiful animals that stand out in any crowd, especially when they are properly clipped and groomed. They excel at English and Western competitions, thereby making them an all-around horse.

  1. Desensitizing

    • Horses generally do not like the sound or the vibration of clippers. Spend some time getting your horse used to the clippers. Let it see the clippers when they are off. Move the clippers away, turn them on and observe the horse's body language. If it is calm, begin clipping the hair slowly and continue to watch its movements.

    Clippers

    • Horses need regular grooming.

      Determine what you will most likely use clippers for before you purchase a set. If you will be using them for occasional trims then a cheaper set is all that is needed. On the other hand, if you plan to show your horse in competitions, then buy a more expensive pair. You may also need to buy a large pair for body clipping and a smaller pair for the head area.

    Blades

    • Clipper blades range in size from 3 3/4 to 40. The higher blade sizes produce a finer cut and are generally used for clipping the face and ears. The lower blade sizes give the hair a longer trim.

    Clipping

    • Showing your horse requires it to be groomed and clipped.

      Clean the muzzle with a wet rag, followed by alcohol. Place the flat side of the clipper blade over your Arabian's muzzle. Work around the front, sides and back. Keep the blade flat against his muzzle for a closer trim. Take care that you do not miss the long hairs on the front of the nose. Finally, trim inside the nose, removing all the hair in the nostrils. To make sure you have not left any long hairs look at your horse from different angles and in different lighting.