Horse Brand Ideas

Horse branding has been around for years as the traditional way to mark your livestock in case it wanders loose or is stolen. Since branding has been around so long, however, it's often tough to come up with some new ideas for a brand. Keeping the brand simple and easy to read are the keys to a successful brand, and some ideas may help produce a creative one.

  1. Initials

    • A clear, crisp set of initials or other letters are always ideal for a brand. Since so many brands are out there, you're best bet is to use at least three letters for identification to avoid duplication. You can choose all block letters, a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters or the letters arranged in a striking design. Make sure there is ample room between the letters so they do not fade and run together. You can use your own initials or pick the first three letters of your ranch, your favorite color or your favorite actor. Letters can be right-side up, upside down or a combination thereof to add even more variety.

    Shapes

    • Simple shapes are another easily identifiable way to brand a horse. Because of the number of brands, again, you should choose something more unique than a simple circle. A circle with a line or two through it in a distinct pattern, or with lines emanating from the perimeter, are better bets. Rectangles, squares, diamonds and crescent moons with distinguishing marks added are also a good place to start. You can also opt for the outline of an object, as one man went for the outline of Texas. Ideas include an animal, a house, a daisy or other objects that are easy to recognize.

    Combination

    • A third starting point is to pick an easily recognizable shape coupled with a letter or three. Ideas include a letter or letters with curved lines beneath it to represent a rocking chair bottom; a letter on top of a cross or swirl; or a letter inside a circle or other simple shape. Just make sure to pick letters and shapes that work well together. The letter K inside of a crescent moon would make for a striking brand, as would the letter U with lines or swirls coming off the bottom.