12/10/2026
Why do we clip horses? It's a fair question, especially from others in countries where clipping isn't a routine part of equine care.
There are many reasons a horse may be clipped, and for many it's no longer only a winter job. Here in the UK, our damp, changeable climate means clipping is mostly about helping horses regulate their temperature. It can help to:
Prevent chills from a damp coat that takes hours to dry after work
Reduce the risk of colic and dehydration from heavy sweating
Let air reach the skin, helping to manage conditions such as CPL, rain scald, mud fever and lice
Keep horses with Cushing's disease (PPID) comfortable when their coats grow long and don't shed properly
The decision to clip should always put welfare first, but when a clip benefits a horse, there's nothing wrong with wanting a smart, even finish too. Not every horse needs clipping, and the right clip depends on the horse and its workload. Our blog explains how clipping fits into UK horse care - find the link in the comments
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