Where to start clipping your horse
It is normally recommended that you start clipping from the shoulder and work your way up the neck and across the body, however, if you are new to clipping, you may want to start in an inconspicuous area like under the belly, just in case you do a couple of bad runs!
Some horses don’t like their head being clipped and this is where the smaller set of 30w, 35w or 45w clippers come in handy, as they are much quieter, lighter and easier to use.
Always clip in long continuous strokes and overlap each run to avoid tram lines. You can tidy up any straight lines by clipping at a 90 degree angle with short strokes. You can also turn the clippers side on so that the blades will cut neatly along the jagged edge. Again, if you have a set of light or medium duty horse clippers, these are ideal for neatening up or finishing off any untidy areas.
When you come to an awkward part, like under the elbow, it really does help to have a friend to hand, as they can pull the front legs forward so the skin is taught, to avoid any nicking in that very sensitive area.
When clipping the head, work from the groove under the chin up towards the throat, against the grain of the hair and then proceed up and over the cheek and up the face.
The face is very sensitive and great care must be taken whilst clipping your horse around the ears, eyes and nose. If possible, try to use a 30w, 35w or 45w clipper around these areas.