How to Determine the Blanket Size for a Horse

Proper blanket fit is important for the health of your horse. A blanket that is too small may cause stress and restrict movement. A blanket that is too large can fall off, completely defeating the purpose of putting a blanket on your horse in the first place.

To determine the best blanket size for your horse, you must carefully measure your horse, then match those measurements to the nearest standard blanket size.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Horse
  • Halter
  • Lead
  • An assistant
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Instructions

    • 1

      Secure your horse. Some horses have issues with a measuring tape coming near them; they don't know what it is and the "snick" as the tape returns to the holder can spook them. Make sure your horse can't bolt before you bring out the measuring tape.

    • 2

      Measure your horse's length. For the purposes of blanket size, measure your horse from mid-chest across the ribs to its rump. Your assistant can either hold the horse's lead and the measuring tape at chest level or take the tape around to the rump. Write down the measurement.

    • 3

      Measure your horse's width. Estimate how far below your horse's ribs knee-level is, then take the measuring tape up over her back to knee-level on the other side. Write this measurement down as well.

    • 4

      Compare the numbers. Take the two measurements and see how they compare to various horse blanket sizes. If you have a choice between a blanket that is slightly too big and one that is slightly too small, go for the big one.