To clip or not to clip? How to make the best decision for your horse

Reading time: 10 minutes

Shearing horses made easy: This guide shows you how to make the decision to shear, what you need to know about thermoregulation, advantages and disadvantages, shearing patterns and care requirements. Find out how to shear your horse safely, pay attention to sensitive areas of the body and do the best for its health - including tips and FAQs.

Contents

Should I shear my horse?

The nights are getting longer, the days shorter and our furry friends' coats thicker. Many horse owners are therefore faced with the question every year: to shear or not to shear? This decision is often hotly debated - some horse owners never shear, arguing that the horse's natural thermoregulation is affected by shearing.

What does thermoregulation mean in horses?

Thermoregulation is the horse 's natural protective mechanism against temperature fluctuations. Horses can regulate their body temperature through increased metabolic activity and control their blood circulation and heart rate depending on the temperature. When it is cold, the heartbeat slows down and the blood vessels contract. Less blood reaches the surface, which means less heat is lost. In addition, a dense winter coat can form an insulating air cushion by raising the top and undercoat. A natural greasy film on the coat allows moisture to drain away and keeps the wool coat dry.

At high temperatures, on the other hand, the horse uses sweat glands to help cool itself, releases up to 20% of its body heat through the air it breathes and transports heat through the tissue(conduction). This ingenious mechanism enables the horse to adapt optimally to changing conditions. A horse's comfort temperature is between -15 and +25 degrees Celsius, with the optimum being around 5 degrees Celsius - a temperature that often seems too cold for us humans.

Shearing horses: Advantages and Disadvantages

Clipping horses has both advantages and disadvantages. We have summarized the disadvantages and advantages in this table. This will help you personally decide whether clipping your horse makes sense for you or whether you could perhaps find a different solution.

Advantages of horse clipping	Disadvantages of horse clipping
A shorn coat dries faster, reduces the risk of colds and promotes the horse's health.	The natural protection of the winter coat is lost, which leads to impaired thermoregulation. The horse must be covered.
Short coats are easier to care for and save the rider time.	The lack of natural protection makes the horse more sensitive and susceptible to chafing or fungal diseases.
The horse sweats less, which leads to greater willingness to perform.	Nervous or anxious animals can experience shearing as a stressful situation.
Faster drying after training reduces the risk of hypothermia and therefore the risk of catching a cold.	In the event of temperature fluctuations, different blankets must be available to compensate for the disturbed thermoregulation.
Reduced perspiration reduces the risk of skin irritation.	Without fur, the skin is more sensitive, which can lead to hair breakage and pressure marks.

When should horses be sheared?

Shearing horses in winter

Horse owners are often faced with the question of whether clipping is advisable in winter. As a general rule, horses that are only moved lightly, such as during a leisurely ride or light dressage, usually do not need to be clipped in winter. A little sweating is normal, and the coat often remains dry at the hairline, while only the tips are damp.

The situation is different for horses that are not in good condition or that are working intensively. They can sweat a lot and often need more than 30 minutes to dry off with a sweat rug or under the solarium. This can be risky: a horse that goes back into the box wet can develop back pain, colds or even colic.

Practical example of horse clipping

💡 Practical example: An open stable horse in training

A few years ago, I worked in a training stable that trained horses. At the end of summer, beginning of fall, a new riding horse named Max arrived - a big, 1.70 m tall teddy bear from northern Germany who, at the age of 7, had been standing outside in all weathers. At first, Max remained unshorn and was slowly introduced to training. The work was increased over several weeks and Max built up his stamina.

After about eight weeks of training, he was fit enough for his first course jumps. One Saturday in November, Max was the first horse to jump and was sweating profusely after an intensive round. Bridle off, saddle off and off to the solarium - after two hours and several sweat blankets, it was back to the box. But even at 6 p.m. Max was still wet, and it wasn't until around 10 p.m. that he was finally dry enough to take the blankets off.

However, as it is not always possible to wait 4-8 hours for a horse to dry, Max was clipped the following week. This not only made the work easier for the rider, but also for Max himself, who now dried faster and didn't have to stand in the box for hours with a wet coat - a more pleasant and healthier procedure for the horse.

Shearing horses in summer

In principle, clipping is not necessary in summer. However, there are exceptions for

Older horses or horses with health restrictions: Especially those that have difficulties with shedding. For them, clipping is a good measure to support thermoregulation, as the main aim in summer is to keep the body temperature constant. A thick coat can hinder cooling through sweating.
Nordic breeds such as Icelanders: These horses often have a particularly thick coat and can sweat a lot in summer. A slight thinning of the coat (along the direction of growth) can help without completely losing the coat's protective function.

There are a few points to bear in mind: Is it already May/June and the horse still has the thick winter coat? Is the horse sweating even with minimal exercise? Does it show signs of lethargy without a clinical cause? If so, a vet may recommend shearing to change the coat.

Shearing horses in spring and fall

Shearing may be necessary in spring as some horses have difficulty shedding their thick winter coats, especially:

Older or hormonally impaired horses (such as those with Cushing's syndrome): These horses often need support during the coat change in order to cope better with rising temperatures.
Athletically active horses: clipping in spring helps to cool the horse better during intensive work.

Shearing is also sometimes useful in the fall to delay the formation of the thick winter coat when the horse is exercised intensively and often sweats heavily. This facilitates thermoregulation and ensures that the coat does not grow in too much.

Shearing techniques and patterns

Overview of different clipping patterns for horses, showing typical styles such as full clipping, partial clipping, blanket clipping and strip clipping. The illustrations highlight which areas of the horse's body are clipped and which remain unshorn

Horse owners can choose from different clipping techniques to adapt the clipping to the needs and attitude of their horse. Each clipping pattern offers specific advantages and disadvantages and is suitable for certain areas of use, such as open stabling or intensive training. Here is an overview of the most common patterns:

The Bib Clip (Bib Shearing)

A picture of a horse with a bib clip clipping, here a part of the neck and a small part of the chest of the horse is clipped. This is why this clipping is also called bib clip clipping. This type of clipping is suitable for horses in open stables and does not necessarily have to be covered.

Use: For horses that spend a lot of time in the pasture and only do light work.

Pattern: Only the front of the neck, the chest and possibly a small part of the girth area are clipped.

Advantage: Allows the horse to sweat efficiently without losing too much body heat. The main areas where the horse sweats heavily are free, while the rest of the coat remains as thermal protection.

The Stripe Shearing: Lower Neck and Belly

Strip clipping is a popular clipping pattern for open stable horses or horses that are not worked much. Here the neck and belly are clipped. This clipping is a preliminary stage to iris clipping

Use: Horses with light exercise or kept in open stables.

Pattern: Similar to the Bib shearing, but additionally shorn on the underside of the neck and on the belly.

Advantage: More sweat areas are free, so less heat is trapped, while the back and legs are still protected.

The Irish Shearing: Irish Clip

Irish shearing involves clipping part of the head, neck and belly. The front legs are often clipped as well. This type of clipping is suitable for horses that work moderately and are kept in an open stable with a blanket

Use: Practical for horses that are moderately trained and spend a lot of time outdoors.

Pattern: The neck, chest and flanks are shorn to just below the belly, while the back and kidney area remain covered.

Advantage: Good compromise between sweat reduction and thermal protection, especially for horses that go out to pasture in cold temperatures.

Low Trace or Rally Shearing for Horses

Make the right choice with the low-trace shearing: Ideal solution to keep muscles warm and provide your horse with sufficient protection outside. Perfect for horses in open stables or in the pasture!

Use: Suitable for light to moderate working horses that are often out in the pasture/paddock.

Pattern: The lower neck area, the elbow area and a narrow strip on the belly are shorn.

Advantage: The upper neck muscles and the back remain warm, which is particularly beneficial for horses that are out in the pasture in cold weather.

The Chaser Shearing: A Popular Blanket Cut

The Chaser cut is ideal for horses that are moved moderately often and do not sweat daily. The dense winter coat remains on the back and kidneys to provide thermal insulation.

Use: For horses with moderate exercise that sweat regularly.

Pattern: The back, kidney area and upper neck remain unshorn, while the heavily perspiring areas are exposed.

Advantage: Efficient clipping for horses that require better heat regulation during moderate training.

The Normal Blanket Shearing

The blanket shearing is the ideal choice for horses that are moderately exercised but still come out into the paddock during the day. It prevents excessive sweating and provides protection for sensitive parts of the body. Ideal for the winter!

Blanket clipping is a clipping technique that leaves the coat on the back, kidneys and legs intact. It is often used on horses that are intensively trainedbut also spend a lot of time outdoors. The horse is usually covered with a light horse blanket.

Use: Horses that are frequently exercised and trained but spend a lot of time outdoors.

Pattern: Sides of the body shorn in a strip, back, legs and head remain unshorn.

Advantage: Optimum balance between protection and sweat reduction, good for moderately active horses.

The Hunter shearing (hunting cut)

The hunting cut, also known as the hunter cut, is ideal for horses undergoing intensive training. It protects the area under the saddle and the legs from chafing and skin irritation. A saddle pad helps to achieve an even cut. After clipping, it is important to keep the horse warm and use an appropriate rug.

Hunting clipping is very popular as it allows the majority of the coat to be clipped while keeping the area under the saddle and the legs warm. This is important to prevent skin irritation caused by sweat in the saddle area, especially in horses that undergo intensive training.

Use: For hard-working horses that are regularly and intensively trained.

Pattern: Almost complete shearing, only the legs and the area under the saddle remain unshorn.

Advantage: Reduces perspiration during intensive work, but protects the legs and saddle area from pressure points.

The Full Shearing with Saddle Layer

The perfect solution for sport horses: full clipping with preservation of the saddle area. Protect the sensitive skin from irritation and chafing in competition sport.

The full clipping with preservation of the saddle area allows a combination of both, but here the saddle area is left in place to avoid skin irritation or chafing in the sensitive saddle area. This type of clipping is often seen on sport horses in national and international competitions.

The Full Shearing

Everything you need to know about full shearing for high-performance horses: Better regulation of body temperature, but also increased care requirements. Find out more here!

Use: High-performance horses that undergo intensive training and require continuous protection from the cold in the form of blankets.

Pattern: The entire body is shorn, including the head and legs, only certain areas such as the ears remain unshorn.

Advantage: Ideal for heavily used horses that require complete temperature regulation through blankets.

Full shearing is particularly suitable for sport horses, as it enables better regulation of body temperature during training by preventing overheating due to excess coat. Nevertheless, full shearing requires more care, as the horse is more susceptible to skin irritations and injuries without its coat. It is therefore important to check the horse regularly and, if necessary, use additional blankets to protect it from the cold and wind.

Clipping horses for the first time: How do I get my horse used to the clipper?

Horses react differently to the clipper, especially when clipping for the first time. While some horses remain relaxed and enjoy the clipping process, others develop a fear of the noise and vibrations of the clippers on their skin. But don't worry: with a little training, this fear can be reduced. Leave the clipper running in the background or hold it in your hand while grooming, even if it is switched off. This will gradually get your horse used to the machine - similar to desensitization with spray bottles.

➡ Video tip: Dr. Vivian Gabor shows you step by step how to get your horse used to "scary" objects such as clippers.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Clipping Horses

Before you start: Make sure that the horse is not clipped directly after work or with a wet, sticky coat. A dry and clean coat is important so that the clipper glides easily through the coat and the clipper blades do not become blunt. Below you will find detailed step-by-step instructions to make clipping a complete success:

Thoroughly groom your horse
Thoroughly remove dirt, sweat and sand from the coat. This is the only way to ensure a clean, even clipping.
Determine clipping pattern and cut
Select the desired clipping pattern (e.g. bib clip, blanket clipping). If necessary, draw the pattern with chalk for dark horses or with charcoal for light-colored horses.
Put the mane up in plaits
If the clipping pattern requires it, put the mane up in plaits. This avoids accidentally shaving off the mane.
Preparing the clipper
Switch on the clipper and apply oil to the clipper blades and the holes provided for this purpose (see operating instructions). Allow the oil to soak in for a few seconds.
Clipping against the direction of growth
Always start against the direction of growth of the coat and start at a point furthest away from the horse's head. This will ensure an even clipping.
Brush and clean after clipping
After clipping, remove loose hair by brushing and brushing. Also go over areas that appear uneven again to achieve a clean result.
Cleaning the clipper
Clean the clipper thoroughly to protect the clipper blades and prepare them for the next use.

Additional tips

Allow the horse to roll after clipping: Some horses enjoy rolling around without a blanket after clipping to get rid of the tickling hairs.
Wash the horse (optional): If possible, wash the horse after clipping with a derma shampoo (e.g. from Cavalor or Bense & Eicke). The shampoo soothes the skin and protects your horse from infections. Wiping the horse with a cloth and an iodine solution can also help if washing is not an option.

Tips for sensitive areas of the body when clipping

Some parts of the body require special care when clipping, as many horses are sensitive there, especially on the legs, chest and girth area. These tips will make clipping in sensitive areas easier and more comfortable for your horse.

Shearing the legs

Front legs: As many horses are particularly ticklish on their legs, it can help to have a second person lift the opposite leg. For example: If you want to clip the right front leg, have a second person lift the left front leg so that the right one remains steady. This allows you to shear the leg safely and stress-free.
Hind legs: Here you can let the other hind leg pass under the belly and hold it with one hand while you shear the other leg. This technique requires some practice with the clippers and can be a little difficult at first.

Shearing of the chest and girth position

Chest: The chest can be a challenge due to skin folds. Stretch the skin slightly by pulling the skin fold in the direction you want to shear. This allows the fur to be removed more evenly.
Girth area: Here too, an assistant can take the horse's front leg forward to tighten the skin in the girth area. This prevents skin folds from forming and makes clipping this sensitive area easier.

With these techniques, even difficult and sensitive areas can be sheared safely and evenly.

Costs for accessories and clippers

Clipping a horse yourself is cheaper in the long run. A good clipper is available from around €120. If you prefer a more convenient solution, you can also opt for battery-powered models, which are available from €190. There are also small machines that are specially designed for clipping heads and legs.

If you don't have your own clipper, you can sometimes borrow one from a stable colleague or from an equestrian store. The rental costs are usually 30-50 € depending on the model.

Typical costs for accessories:

Clipper: 120-400 €
Shearing machine oil: 4-20 €
Shear blades per piece: 20-50 €
Have clipper blades sharpened: 10-20 €
Protective suit for shearing: from € 2

Costs for professional shearing

Many professional clippers or grooms offer a mobile clipping service. This can be useful if you want to learn how to clip or are unsure. For inexperienced horses who may be afraid of clippers, clipping by an experienced person can also be beneficial.

Prices for shearing services vary depending on the region and the amount of work involved. Here is an overview of the average costs for different clipping patterns:

Travel: As a rule, a flat rate per kilometer is charged.
Bib-Clip shearing: 15-20 €
Strip shearing: 20-25 €
Irish shearing: 30-40 €
Rally strip clipping: 40-50 €
Ceiling cut without legs: 50-60 €
Ceiling cut with legs: 70-85 €
Hunter shearing: 70-80 €
Full shearing: 90-95 €
Head clipping (depending on service): 10 € surcharge
Patterns (e.g. decorative cuts): 10-35 € depending on effort

Shearing horses: Summarized

Clipping a horse is an individual decision that depends heavily on the needs and health of the animal. While thermoregulation is a natural protective mechanism, clipping can be a problem for horses that are intensively trained or have health problems such as Cushing's syndrome have significant benefits. The numerous shearing patterns make it possible to adapt to different types of husbandry and training levels and can provide targeted thermal protection and sweat reduction.

A well-chosen clipping pattern improves the horse's well-being and health by controlling sweating and speeding up drying, which is particularly important in the cold season. At the same time, clipping requires additional care: clipped horses often need an adapted blanket strategy to compensate for natural heat loss and protect them from colds.

In summary, clipping is useful for horses that work regularly, but also for older animals or those that have difficulty changing their coat. For leisure horses that are lightly trained, clipping is usually not necessary as they are well protected from the cold by their winter coat. The decision as to whether and how to shear should therefore be individually tailored to the horse's needs and - if necessary - discussed with a vet or experienced shearing professional.

Shearing horses: The most important questions and answers

At what temperatures should you shear a horse?

‍Itis advisable to shear horses when temperatures drop in the fall or winter, especially if they sweat a lot during regular work. In most cases, the ideal temperature for shorn horses is below 10 °C, as they can then be well protected by suitable blankets.

How much does it cost to have a horse clipped?

‍Thecost of a professional clipping service varies depending on the clipping pattern and region. They start at around €15 for a bib clip and can go up to €95 for a full clipping. Patterns or additional services such as head clipping usually cost extra.

How many millimeters should the horse be clipped?

‍Asstandard, the coat is shortened to 3-4 mm during clipping. Sport horses are sometimes clipped to 1-2 mm in order to achieve optimum ventilation.

When does it make sense to shear a horse?

‍Itmakes sense to clip horses when they are in training and sweat regularly, as this dries them out more quickly and reduces the risk of colds. Older or sick horses that have problems with shedding also often benefit from clipping.

What are the different ways of clipping a horse?

‍Thereare different clipping patterns such as bib clip, strip clipping, Irish clipping, blanket clipping, hunter clipping and full clipping. Each pattern has its advantages and disadvantages and adapts to the individual needs of the horse.

How often do you have to shear a horse?

‍Itis usually sufficient to shear horses once a season. However, some horses, especially high-performance horses, are clipped several times a winter as the coat grows back quickly.

Can a horse also be clipped in summer?

‍Yes, especially in older horses or those with hormonal disorders such as Cushing's syndrome a summer shearing can help to prevent overheating and improve well-being.

How can patterns be applied when clipping a horse?

Patterns are often used as decorative elements during shearing. They can be applied with templates or freehand and require a steady hand and a precise clipper.

When is the best time to shear a horse?

‍Thebest time to shear is in the fall, when the winter coat has developed, and in early spring, before the temperatures rise. This ensures that the horse is optimally prepared for the winter and gets through the coat change better in spring.

When was the last time you should shear a horse?

‍The last shearing should ideally take place in late winter or early spring so that the horse is ready for the natural coat change in spring.

When should a horse with Cushing's be clipped?

‍Inhorses with Cushing's syndrome clipping in spring and summer can be useful, as these horses often have problems with the change of coat and sweat a lot.

Why should you shear a horse?

‍Shearingallows horses that are heavily exercised to sweat more efficiently and dry faster. This reduces the risk of colds and skin problems and keeps the horse performing well.

Author

Nele Schimmelpfennig Clinics More FROM CMH.TV