Our Guide To Styling & Accessorising A Horse Rug

Our Guide To Styling & Accessorising A Horse Rug

Rugging your horse can make a world of difference. Not only will it keep them clean when outside and in the stable, but it will protect them from any harsh elements. No matter your breed of horse, there will be a good quality rug out there. Shetland pony rugs are widely available too, so you can always have a happy horse no matter the breed. However, it can be hard to decide how to style their rug, so we’ve put together a handy guide to help you. Keep reading to find out more!

• Neck Hoods

Using a neck hood can save you a lot of grooming time as they protect your horse from any rain or mud they’re exposed to throughout their day. When looking for a neck hood, there are two types on offer: a full neck and headcover or just a neck cover. The type you choose depends on your horse and how much protection they need. Full neck and head hoods are breathable and can be easily stretched over your horse’s head. Whereas a neck hood just covers part of their neck. An important thing to watch out for with these is rubbing. If your horse’s mane becomes greasy, it will make the neck cover more likely to rub. So, to avoid this, keep their mane and the hood clean. Wearing a neck hood all the time can also cause potential hair loss, so be mindful when adding these to your horse’s rug collection.

• Horse Bibs

Sometimes a rug can start to rub on their front, so adding a horse bib can help to prevent this. They’re waterproof and will absorb any dampness, stopping the rug from causing friction against their skin.

• Chest Extenders

If you find that no matter what brand of rug you buy, your horse is in between sizes and nothing seems to fit them comfortably, you should consider a chest extender. When fitting their rug, if it’s a little too small, adding a chest extender can help it fit correctly. It’s fastened under the rug on either side of the chest and allows your horse to comfortably wear their rug without any restriction on its movement.

• Spare Parts

It’s easy to lose parts of their rugs such as the surcingles or the buckles on the straps, so stocking up on a few extras will ensure you’re never caught out and can always fit their rug correctly.

• Tail Bags

If you find that your horse’s tail is often caked in mud at the end of the day, you might want to consider adding a one to their rug. Tail bags create a barrier and stop their tail from getting tangled and dirty. Plus, they can also promote hair growth and prevent breakage.

• Colours

Don’t be afraid to add a little colour to their rug collection. There are lots of different colours and even patterns out there to choose from. You could have a simple, black turnout rug and hood, but accessorise it with a colourful tail bag. Alternatively, you could go all out and have a whole collection in the same floral pattern. Give their rugs a little bit of your personality and you’ll find getting them ready for their day even more fun.

When you’re looking into different accessories for your horse rug, it’s a good idea to think about what your horse will actually need. There’s no point getting a tail bag and making them wear it if in general, their tail stays pretty clean. Accessorising should add to their comfort, not detract from it. Providing your horse with all their rugging needs is a sure way to keep them content and calm so why not look at expanding your collection today?

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