Probably a very stupid question but

[_daisy_]

When showing, whether it be in hand or ridden, should the horses tail be pulled of plaited? Now im not talking about welshies or M&M as they are an exception. Im really more intersted in the hunter classes.

Just that I read a book by Lynn Russell, that said if you plait a tail then it shows you are an amateur to the professionals. But then read a book by Glanda Spooner who said either is acceptable and a tail should never be pulled if the horse lives out 24/7.

Also would you plait or pull a yearlings tail?

 

[rema]

Hunters and cobs should be pulled.With leaving unpulled for horses that live out 24/7 i think it dosent apply so much these days as most rugs have tail flaps to keep that area warm.

 

[sherlocksgirls]

I show my horse in hunter and coloured classes, we also do dressage and hunt. His tail is always pulled or clipped as he rubs it so much and it is really thick. I have never had any comments to say he should be plaited.

 

[_daisy_]

Well that was what got me thinking. Id love my horses tails to be pulled but dont know whether I should pull Chantins as she has a very thin tail at the bottom (dont know why as it used to lovely and thick) and then there is Willow the yearling. Im debating whether to pull hers or not?

oh I dont know what to do.

 

[_daisy_]

would you pull a yearlings tail?

 

[rema]

Have you thought about a false tail?.

 

[TURBOBERT]

Clipped - never but never clip a tail. If they dont like it pulled there are several gadgets on the market to help including thinning scissors

 

[squirtlysmum]

I showed my mare at county level as a large riding horse and she was always plaited, but I personally would pull a boys tail. I also showed in hand and never pulled a youngsters tail until they were under saddle, then you have the joys of plaiting a wriggly baby!!
And its NOT a stupid question!