Horse Shampoo: Thoroughly Clean and Gentle on Skin and Coat

Horse Shampoo: clean, cared for and shiny

A horse shampoo is adapted to the horse's skin, which reacts differently from human skin. It dissolves dirt, sweat and grease without drying the skin out unnecessarily. Before a show, after a roll in the mud or when greys have yellow stains, a wash with shampoo makes the coat gleam again. Many shampoos contain conditioning ingredients such as wheat proteins, rice milk or herbal extracts and have a pleasantly fresh scent.

The right shampoo for your horse

For a normal wash, a mild conditioning shampoo is enough. For greys and light-coloured horses, special shampoos for white coats help to brighten droppings and urine stains. A concentrate can be diluted and goes a long way with a very dirty coat. Stain soap is good for individual areas without having to wash the whole horse. For ponies and children there are foam baths that make washing playful. Shampoos for irritated skin or skin affected by mites provide care alongside veterinary treatment.

Washing properly

First wet the coat with lukewarm water, starting at the legs. Dilute the shampoo as directed and massage it in with a sponge or wash mitt in the direction of hair growth. Leave out the eyes, ears and nostrils. Then rinse very thoroughly until the water runs clear, because residues can itch. Draw the water off with a sweat scraper and let your horse dry in a warm, sheltered spot.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use ordinary human shampoo on my horse?
This is usually not recommended, because a horse's skin is structured differently from ours. Human shampoo can dry it out and encourage scurf. A horse shampoo is adapted to it and is easier to rinse out.

From what temperature can I wash my horse?
It is best to wash your horse on warm, still days so that it dries quickly. In winter, a full wash only makes sense if you have a heated wash bay or a solarium. Otherwise, wash only individual areas.

How do I wash the tail properly?
Dip the tail into a bucket of lukewarm water with a little shampoo and massage it in well, especially at the dock. Then rinse thoroughly. A mane spray after drying makes brushing it through easier.