Grooming your horse isn’t just about looking good—it’s how you build a bond, check their health, and prepare for riding. For beginners, learning to groom correctly is one of the first (and most enjoyable) ways to connect with a horse.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a complete, safe, and beginner-friendly grooming routine—step by step.
🧽 What You’ll Need
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Curry comb
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Hard (dandy) brush
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Soft brush
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Hoof pick
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Mane comb or brush
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Optional: grooming mitt, fly spray, grooming tote
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A tied or safely held horse
✋ Step-by-Step Grooming Routine
1. Secure the Horse
Tie your horse with a quick-release knot or have a helper hold them calmly.
2. Curry Comb (Loosen Dirt)
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Start at the left shoulder
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Use circular motions on fleshy areas
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Avoid bony parts like the legs and face
📝 This wakes up the skin and brings dirt to the surface.
3. Hard Brush (Remove Debris)
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Use short flicking motions in the direction of hair
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Follow where you curried
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Clean the brush often
4. Soft Brush (Delicate Areas)
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Use on the face, legs, and belly
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Always brush with the hair
5. Mane & Tail
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Start from the bottom up
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Use your fingers or a comb gently
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Hold small sections to avoid pulling
6. Hoof Care
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Stand at the shoulder facing back
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Run your hand down the leg
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Squeeze the fetlock and gently ask for the hoof
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Clean from heel to toe, avoiding the frog
💡 Tips for Success
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Talk to your horse as you groom—it builds trust.
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Always watch body language: tail swishing, ear pinning = back off.
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Be gentle but thorough. Don’t rush!
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Groom both sides evenly.
🎯 Student Challenge
Can you groom your horse in under 10 minutes while checking for cuts, swelling, or heat? Try to spot one detail you didn’t notice yesterday.
📥 Bonus Resource
Download our Grooming Checklist Poster from The Digital Stable for a visual guide you can hang in your barn or share with students.
