Use body clippers for larger areas and smaller trimmers for detail work. Match the clip style and blade to the coat and workload, follow the exact clipper’s compatibility instructions, and keep blades sharp, oiled and cool. Introduce sound and vibration gradually and monitor the horse.
Clipping helps working horses cool off and dry faster in winter. The right clipper makes the job quicker and calmer.
Types
Compare corded and cordless horse clippers by your clipping job, power access and runtime.
| Type | Use |
|---|---|
| Body clippers | Large areas, thick winter coats |
| Detachable-blade clippers | Versatile, blades swap quickly |
| Trimmers | Faces, ears, legs, bridle path |
Clip styles
| Clip | Coat removed | Suits |
|---|---|---|
| Bib | Throat and chest | Light work |
| Trace | Lower body and neck | Moderate work |
| Blanket | Neck and lower body | Regular work, blanketed |
| Hunter | All except legs and saddle patch | Hard work, blanketed |
| Full | All coat | Hard work, blanketed |
Blades
Blade numbers indicate cut length; higher numbers cut closer. A #10 is a common general blade; finer blades are used for detail work. Large body-clipper blades have their own fine, medium and coarse grades. Follow the maker’s chart.
Technique and care
- Clip a clean, dry coat.
- Keep blades sharp, oiled and cool; stop often.
- Introduce sound and vibration gradually; pause and reassess if the horse shows distress, and use an experienced handler.
- Clean and oil blades after use.
Blanket clipped horses to the weather; see blanket weights. Browse horse clothing and care.
Common questions
What clip should I give my horse?
It depends on work and housing. A bib or trace clip suits light work; hunter and full clips suit horses in hard work who are blanketed.
Which blade should I use for a body clip?
Follow the exact clipper maker’s blade chart; detachable and large body-clipper blades can use different numbering systems.
Why do clipper blades get hot?
Friction. Stop often, use blade coolant and oil, and check heat against your wrist.
Do clipped horses need blankets?
Usually yes in cold weather, matched to how much coat was removed. See the blanket guide.