How do I choose the correct rug size for my horse?

How do I choose the correct rug size for my horse? 

As the weather gets colder, we are starting to think about putting a few more layers on our horses to protect them from the cold, wind and rain.  Having a correct fitting rug is important, there is nothing worse than going out in the morning to find your horse standing there with his rug in all sorts. Having a correct fitting rug is not just for the comfort of your horse, but also safety and your wallet. There is nothing worse than finding the brand-new rug you only just purchased torn or ripped because it didn’t fit properly.  

Measure your horse 

• Take measurement from the centre of the chest (where the chest strap would sit) past the shoulder and around the side to the furthest point of your horse at the back.  

• Alternatively, you could measure a rug that already fits your horse well – just remember it may have shrunk or stretched from use so it may not be exact. 

• If you have a heavier set horse as apposed to narrow farmed horse, you may want to add a little extra when measuring as a heavier horse will fill out the rug more. 

Check how the rug fits your horse when you get home to be sure its correct  

• Try the new rug on, be considerate if you do think you may return the rug. When trying it on put a light clean rug on your horse first so as not to get dirt or hair over the rug until you are sure it’s a good fit.  

• The rug should sit in front of the whither approximately 3inches, if it’s too big or sits right on the whither, you run the risk of it rubbing and causing pressure sores.  

• It should sit firmly around the neck and chest but with plenty of room to move. If it’s too small or tight around the neck it may restrict your horses movement and rub the shoulders and chest area.   

• Leg straps should be loose enough to prevent chaffing or rubs but not hang to low that they are loose and not effective. The legs straps should be of the same even length. 

• If your rug has a surcingle or belly straps, they should hang about a hands width below your horse’s tummy, to allow movement but not too low that they can become a problem. 

• The seam of the rug where the tail flap starts should sit on top of where the tail starts.  

Why fit is so important?  

• Comfort for your horse so the rug isn’t falling to one side or slipping forward or back. 

• Allow freedom of movement and not restrict your horse in anyway 

• Prevent rubs and chaffing  

• Prevent injury, Surcingles or belly straps that are too big can allow a horse to get their leg through the strap if it is having a roll. A rug that slips off to one side can get tangled around your horses’ legs leaving them open to tripping or getting a strap caught around a leg. 

Correctly fitting your horse’s rug will not only keep your horse comfortable and warm in winter, but it will also hopefully save you some dollars as you won’t be finding your new rug torn up in the mud!