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Grooming isn’t just about keeping your horse clean — it’s about building a bond, desensitizing young horses, and creating that jaw-dropping, glossy coat you see in the show ring. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps for achieving a show-quality groom, just like we do with Fandango, our four-year-old colt and future reining prospect.
Whether you're preparing for competition or simply want your horse looking and feeling its best, follow these professional grooming tips to elevate your horse care routine.
Why Grooming Is More Than Skin Deep
Many people assume that a show horse’s shine is a last-minute makeover. The truth? That dazzling coat takes consistent daily care over weeks or months. Grooming isn’t just surface-level — it’s a vital part of training, relationship building, and health maintenance.
✅ Pro Tip: Think of grooming as groundwork. Every brush stroke is an opportunity for desensitization and connection.
Step 1: Start with the Curry Comb
The grooming journey begins with a simple curry comb. Use a circular motion and apply some elbow grease to loosen dead hair, dandruff, and dirt. This is your opportunity to get your horse comfortable with being handled all over.
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Focus on the coat’s surface
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Switch hands as you move from front to back to stay in a safe brushing position
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Pay close attention to sensitive areas like the cheeks, forehead, and nasal cavities where dirt and fungus often accumulate
Step 2: Stiff Brush for Training the Coat
After currying, follow up with a medium- to stiff-bristle brush to begin training the hair to lie flat in its natural direction. A smooth, flat coat reflects light — and that’s what creates the sought-after show ring sheen.
💡 Grooming Technique: Always brush in the direction the hair naturally lays. Brush under the belly, behind the legs, and up to the withers using the hand closest to the horse’s body for better control and safety.
Step 3: Apply Coat Conditioner for Shine and Protection
Once you’ve brushed the coat, spray a generous layer of Laser Sheen (or your preferred coat polish) to add a protective barrier against dirt and dust. This step also boosts shine and repels debris, keeping your horse cleaner between rides.
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Apply evenly across the body
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Brush again to spread the product
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Don’t forget the face and flanks
Step 4: Grooming the Mane and Tail — The Finishing Touches
When it comes to grooming the mane and tail, the right products matter. While Laser Sheen works well, Michael prefers an olive oil spray from the ethnic haircare aisle of your local store — a budget-friendly, effective alternative.
💸 Cost-Saving Tip: If the bottle doesn’t say “for horses,” it’s probably cheaper — and just as good!
Tail Grooming Tips:
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Never brush a dry tail — spray first to avoid breakage
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Always start brushing from the bottom and work your way up
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Bring the tail up to you instead of bending under the horse
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If your horse is young or sensitive, work hip to hip for safety
Check for any buildup or dandruff along the tailbone and remove shavings or hay as needed.
Step 5: Braid and Bungee for Tail Protection
A horse’s tail is a statement — and keeping it clean and full takes a little prep.
Michael recommends braiding and banding the tail before every ride (except show day):
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Divide the tail into three parts and create a simple braid.
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Fold the tail into thirds.
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Secure with a bungee cord (available near the tarp section in hardware stores).
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Tuck and fasten the tail to prevent snagging on obstacles, trailers, or tack.
🚛 Trailering Tip: Horses often lose tail hairs backing out of trailers — braiding and banding helps prevent that damage.
Why These 5 Extra Minutes Matter
Taking five extra minutes to groom thoroughly isn't wasted time — it’s an investment in your horse’s comfort, beauty, and behavior. Horses who feel clean, cared for, and connected are more responsive and less reactive under saddle.
Plus, this daily care contributes to that show-quality glow we all strive for — the one that turns heads and reflects the strong bond between horse and rider.
Final Thoughts: Make Grooming a Habit
Whether you're preparing for a big competition or just want to show off your horse’s shine to friends, these grooming techniques will help you get there.
