Different horse owners have different tastes regarding grooming products. From brushes to combs, from hoof picks to bath products, there are plenty of options on the market. Indeed, horses may respond better to some grooming products than others, depending on the way they are built and the sensitivity of their skin.
This is why it pays to try multiple grooming products on horses to determine which works the best. However, when just starting out, go with what the professionals use.
Curry Combs
One of the first grooming products needed for horses is the curry comb, which is used to loosen stiff dirt and dust from the horse's coat. These combs are used on the neck, trunk and upper legs of the horse, but are generally too rough for the underbelly and lower legs.
The best curry combs are made of a rubber and plastic material. The spikes are too soft to damage the horse's skin, but stiff enough to do the job. There are also hard plastic and metal curry combs available, but horse owners must be very careful not to hurt the horse while using them.
Rubber curries are available in all colors, shapes and sizes. Look for curry combs that have circular teeth so you can rub in a rounded motion over the horse.
Brushes
Some horses require more brush grooming products than others. A stiff brush is essential for horses with normal skin because it will brush away the dirt and debris loosened by the curry comb. If the horse has sensitive skin, however, a medium brush is more practical and won't cause irritation. Generic brushes found at tack and feed stores will suffice.
The soft brush, on the other hand, is used to smooth the coat, and is generally more pleasurable for horses. Many horse owners are inclined to spend more on high-quality soft brushes for this very reason. Some are made with goat hair and have bristles designed specifically for glossing and polishing the coat.
Look for brush grooming products that have the word "premium" in their names, or ones from specialty tack stores. PVC bristles are often just as soft as goat hair, and don't cost as much. Grooma, in particular, is a popular brand.
Mane & Tail Combs
A mane and tail comb is used to straighten and detangle the mane and tail. These come in a variety of shapes, most of which are elongated with thick plastic teeth. There are also mental versions available, but these are more likely to break hairs if the mane or tail is severely tangled. For horses with very thin hair, a Grooma rake might be preferable as it will separate thinner hairs.
Hook Picks
This is one of the most important grooming products a horse owner can purchase, and should be used even if time doesn't allow for a full grooming. The hoof pick allows horse owners to remove caked mud, dirt, rocks and other debris from the frog of the hoof, preventing lamenesses while riding or exercising.
A hoof pick should come with a brush on one end and the pick on the other for maximum effectiveness. A plastic handle is easier to hold and therefore less likely to hurt the hand. Look for hoof picks that have blunt edges and a stiff-bristled brush.
Choosing Grooming Products
Once you have a selection of grooming products assembled, watch the horse's reaction. Does he seem content with his grooming, or does he move away from the bristles of the brush. If the horse seems agitated by a particular tool, try something else to see if you get a better reaction.
Laura Thompson - Laura Thompson is a horseback riding instructor and freelance writer living in Houston, Texas. She is proud to be the feature writer for ...
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