How do I measure my horse for a blanket?

To measure your horse for a blanket, use a flexible tape measure starting from the center of the chest, running horizontally along the side of the body to the edge of the tail. This measurement in inches corresponds directly to your horse's standard blanket size.

The Step-by-Step Measurement Process

Getting an accurate measurement requires your horse to stand square on a flat, level surface. It is highly recommended to have a helper hold the horse's head so they remain still and straight during the process, as any bending, turning, or lowering of the head will skew your final numbers. If you do not have a flexible fabric tape measure, you can use a long piece of non-stretch twine or lead rope, mark the lengths, and then measure the twine against a standard metal tape measure.

• Start at the chest: Place the beginning of your tape measure at the center of the horse's chest, right where the breastbone meets the base of the neck.
• Run along the side: Pull the tape measure horizontally across the widest part of the shoulder, along the barrel, and over the hip.
• Finish at the tail: Stop measuring at the point of the buttock, which is the outermost edge of the hindquarters, roughly ten to twelve inches to the side of the tail.

Keep the tape measure taut and parallel to the ground throughout the process. If your horse measures on an odd number, such as seventy-five inches, it is generally best to round up to the next even size, which would be a seventy-six. For young horses, sizing can be trickier due to rapid growth. In these cases, using a specialized option like the "Weaver Leather Foal Blanket 420D — Adjustable Warmth for Stalls" allows you to adjust the fit as the foal grows, keeping them safe from loose, dangling straps that could cause entanglement.

Evaluating the Fit on Your Horse

Once your blanket arrives, place it on your horse over a clean sheet to keep it clean in case you need to return it. Check the fit in three key areas: the shoulders, the wither, and the rump. You should easily be able to slide your hand down the neck of the blanket and flat against your horse's shoulder; if it is too tight, it will cause painful rubs and restrict their natural movement. The blanket should cover the horse's barrel completely without hanging down past the knees or hocks, which can cause tripping.

If the blanket slips back behind the wither, it is too large and can put dangerous pressure on the chest. For horses requiring full winter protection, you can attach a neck piece. The "Shires Tempest Original 200 Neck Cover - Maroon, 200g Medium Weight Fill" is an excellent choice to add warmth, but always ensure the neck cover fits loosely enough for the horse to lower its head to graze comfortably without pulling on the shoulders.

An ill-fitting blanket can lead to hair loss, deep sores, or restricted circulation. If your horse develops open sores, severe rubs, or signs of skin infection from a blanket, remove it immediately and consult your veterinarian for proper wound care and treatment.