As temperatures drop and winter approaches, horse owners often face the recurring question: Should I blanket my horse—and if so, how? While blanketing can play a vital role in keeping your horse comfortable during colder months, doing it incorrectly can lead to discomfort, health issues, and even injury. This guide covers the essential dos and don’ts of horse blanketing, helping you avoid common mistakes and protect your horse all winter long.
Do: Choose the Correct Blanket Size and Fit
One of the most common blanketing mistakes is selecting the wrong blanket size. A blanket that’s too small can restrict your horse’s movement, cause rubbing, and even create pressure sores on the withers and shoulders. Conversely, a too-large blanket can slip, shift, and pose a safety risk.
How to Get It Right
To measure your horse accurately, run a tape measure from the center of the chest to the edge of the tail. When trying on a blanket:
• You should be able to slide a hand comfortably between the blanket and the withers.
• Straps should be snug enough to hold the blanket in place but never tight enough to pinch or cause pressure spots.
A properly fitted blanket stays balanced, secure, and comfortable throughout the day.
Don’t: Use the Wrong Blanket Type for the Weather
Not all horse blankets are interchangeable. The two main categories—stable blankets and turnout blankets—are designed for very different environments.
• Stable blankets: Designed for indoor use; not waterproof.
• Turnout blankets: Waterproof and durable, ideal for outdoor turnout in rain, snow, or wind.
Using a stable blanket outdoors can result in a soaked, heavy blanket that chills your horse rather than warms them.
How to Get It Right
• Use turnout blankets for any horse going outside in wet, snowy, or windy conditions.
• Reserve stable blankets for indoor, dry environments.
Do: Consider Your Horse’s Individual Needs
Blanketing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your horse’s age, breed, coat density, metabolic health, and clipped/ unclipped status all influence how much blanketing they require.
For example:
• Clipped horses usually need heavier blankets.
• Senior horses or hard keepers may require more warmth earlier in the season.
• Healthy, younger horses with full winter coats may only need a light blanket—or none at all.
How to Get It Right
Regularly assess your horse rather than relying solely on temperature charts. To check warmth, place a hand under the blanket behind the withers:
• Sweaty or damp? They’re over-blanketed.
• Cool to the touch? They may need more insulation.
Don’t: Over-Blanket Your Horse
Many owners accidentally over-blanket, assuming “colder weather = heavier blanket.” This leads to overheating, sweating, and moisture buildup—conditions that can create chills, discomfort, and skin problems.
How to Get It Right
• Monitor forecasts and daily temperature changes.
• Have a variety of blanket weights (light, medium, heavy) ready to rotate.
• When in doubt, remember: most horses tolerate being slightly cool better than being too warm.
Do: Perform Daily Blanket Checks
Daily blanket checks are essential for maintaining your horse’s comfort and preventing injuries.
Blankets can shift, rub, or hide developing skin issues. Removing the blanket each day allows you to:
• Check for rubbing or irritation
• Assess body condition
• Groom your horse
• Confirm the blanket still fits properly
How to Get It Right
Incorporate daily blanket removal into your grooming routine to identify and address issues early.
Don’t: Blanket a Wet Horse
Blanketing a wet horse traps moisture against the skin, preventing proper drying and increasing the risk of chills and skin infections.
How to Get It Right
Allow your horse to dry fully before blanketing. Using a cooler can help wick moisture and speed drying time safely.
Conclusion
By following these blanketing dos and don’ts, you can ensure your horse stays warm, dry, and comfortable throughout the winter. Blanket thoughtfully, monitor your horse daily, and adjust based on individual needs rather than assumptions. When done correctly, blanketing becomes an invaluable tool for supporting your horse’s health during cold weather.