Bathing Your Horse - Step by Step

4. Untangle the mane and tail by brushing or combing from the ends, working your way to the base. Use your fingers to undo stubborn tangles.

5. Bathe your horse in an area with a tree, post or other object to tie him to. Be sure you aren't in an area that will turn to mud! Grass, gravel, a driveway or rubber mat is good.

6. Use a hose with a spray nozzle and warm water and never spray your horse in the face.

7. A horse who has never been bathed will probably be afraid. Be prepared for a quick release. Whenever your horse shows signs of fear, return to an area of the body with the water that he previously accepted. Start moving toward the area he didn't like very slowly. Praise him and talk sweet the whole time. Repeat this as necessary.

• Spray front legs first.
• Next, the chest, shoulders, neck. Use a gentle spray - turn the water pressure down some if needed.
• Do barrel, back and butt.
• Soak your horse completely.

Always keep the spray directed toward the rear of your horse

8. Time to shampoo. Always follow label directions. Apply shampoo to be used full strength to a wet sponge, then to the horse. If directions call for diluting the shampoo, use a bucket of warm water.