What Is Horse Clipping?

Horse clipping is an essential grooming step for equine enthusiasts, as it not only enhances the attractiveness of our beloved animals but also promotes their health and comfort. For first-time horse owners or those seeking to master the art of horse clipping, this comprehensive guide has you covered. We’ll delve into the basics of horse clipping, the different styles, and the best practices to optimize the process. As you read along, feel free to share your experiences and explore other valuable horse-related guides on How to Own a Horse.

What is horse clipping?

Horse clipping refers to the process of trimming or cutting away the horse's hair or coat to maintain its cleanliness and improve performance. Clipping is particularly crucial as horses’ natural hair growth increases during the winter months to keep them warm. However, this thick winter coat also traps sweat and moisture, which can cause a slew of health issues, including chills, skin infections, and overheating. As such, horse clipping becomes an indispensable practice for responsible horse owners.

Types of Horse Clipping

There are various styles of horse clipping, each designed for specific needs and preferences. Here are six of the most common horse clipping styles:

1. Full Clip

In this type of clipping, the entire coat is removed, leaving only a thin layer of hair all over the body. A full clip is most suitable for horses that regularly engage in intense physical activities. However, as the horse will become sensitive to cold, the use of blankets is necessary.

2. Hunter Clip

The hunter clip is specifically designed for high-performance horses. This style involves removing hair from the underbelly, neck, chest, and upper legs. A patch of hair is left around the saddle area for the cushioning effect.

3. Blanket Clip

This clip, as the name suggests, leaves a “blanket” of hair on the horse's back and hindquarters. Hair is removed from the neck, chest, and belly. Blanket clips are best for horses that perform moderate work in colder weather.

4. Trace Clip

This style is ideal for horses engaged in light work. It entails removing hair from the lower neck, chest, and belly, with optional trimming around the legs.

5. Strip Clip

For horses that undertake minimal work or are largely inactive, a strip clip is appropriate. It involves shaving a thin strip of hair from the lower neck, running along the underbelly to the tail.

6. Irish Clip

The Irish clip involves removing hair from the chest and underbelly only, leaving ample hair for insulation in colder weather. This clip is suitable for moderately active horses.

What Is Horse Clipping Example

If you own a horse primarily for recreational purposes that occasionally take part in light competitions, the blanket clip would be the best choice. This clip maintains a balance between keeping your horse warm and preventing overheating during exercise. Remember to adjust your clipping style as the seasons change, and your horse's workload varies.

Best Practices for Horse Clipping

• Begin by selecting appropriate tools, namely electric clippers with various blade sizes and sharpness levels.
• Prepare your horse beforehand by cleaning their coat, ensuring it is free from dirt, debris, and tangles.
• Start clipping gradually so your horse can acclimate to the sound and sensation. Begin at the least sensitive areas such as the shoulders or neck.
• To achieve a neat finish, always clip against the direction of hair growth.
• Keep an extra set of blades on hand to swap out overheated or dull blades.
• After clipping, reward your horse with treats and remember to check for any signs of irritation or infection in the following days.

Horse clipping is an integral aspect of horse care that every owner should master. Not only does it promote the wellbeing and health of your equine partner, but it also enhances their appearance and performance. After reading this comprehensive guide, you're well on your way to skillfully clipping your horse. Feel free to share your successes or gather more insights by exploring additional articles and resources on How to Own a Horse.