Spring is one of the most demanding times of the year for a horse. Changes in temperature, shedding, the first training sessions after winter, more time in the paddock – all this requires proper preparation.
Check out our complete 2026 spring checklist, to ensure your horse enters the season in great shape.
1. Shedding – time for intensive grooming
Spring shedding is a big strain on a horse's body. During this period:
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brush daily (preferably with a curry comb and winter coat brush),
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remove dead hair to avoid irritation,
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observe the skin for dandruff and abrasions.
💡 It's worth introducing supplements that support skin and coat health (biotin, zinc,
vitamin E), especially if shedding is slow or uneven.
Recommended products for post-winter horse care:
Excellent Horse Grooming Brush L Black – Large grooming brush for horses
The brush not only removes dust, dirt, and dead hair, but also massages the skin, stimulating circulation and improving coat condition.
Excellent Horse Biozin hoof, coat, and skin health
Biozin is a complementary feed (dietary feed) for horses that supports the regeneration of hooves, coat, and skin. It has an apple flavor, making it very palatable and readily consumed by horses.
2. General tidying in the stable and equipment
Spring is the ideal time to inspect:
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saddle and bridle (cleaning and leather care),
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winter rugs (washing and storage),
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boots and saddle pads,
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headcollars and ropes.
👉 Check for cracks, chafing, or weakened seams on your equipment. This is also a good time to replace worn-out elements.
Recommended products for post-winter equipment care:
Excellent Horse - Leather & Saddle Balm – Natural leather balm 150ml
Natural balm for the maintenance and care of leather products. Excellent Leather & Saddle Balm effectively cleans, nourishes, and protects leather, restoring its elasticity and natural shine. It contains beeswax and lanolin, which deeply moisturize and protect the leather from cracking and drying out.
3. Return to regular training
After a winter break, a horse may experience:
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reduced stamina,
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muscle stiffness,
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a drop in fitness.
Therefore:
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increase training intensity gradually,
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start with lunging and hand walking,
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introduce stretching and exercises that build the back muscles.
💡 It's worth considering electrolytes and joint support supplements for increased exertion.
Recommended supplements for horses in training after winter:
Excellent Horse Electrolyte granules 1 kg to compensate for electrolyte loss in horses after intense physical exertion
Complementary feed mixture (dietary feed) intended for horses, aimed at compensating for electrolyte loss during heavy sweating. Contains essential salts, vitamins, and minerals that help restore moisture balance in horses when electrolytes are lost (e.g., during intense exercise, competitions, or on hot days).
4. Insect protection – start early
Insect season is starting earlier and earlier. Don't wait until the first heatwave.
Checklist:
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fly mask,
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repellent spray,
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fly sheet,
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itching relief products.
Prevention is much more effective than treating irritations.
Recommended products for fly protection:
Covalliero Zebra Fly and Eczema Rug with Neck Cut-out
Light and comfortable rug providing effective protection against flies and biting insects. Made of soft polyester with a zebra pattern that further deters insects. Features an integrated neck part with velcro fastening, chest padding, elastic leg straps, and a belly flap with an elastic band.
Covalliero Zebra Fly and Insect Protection Mask
5. Spring health check-up
The start of the season is a good time for:
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hoof check (farrier),
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dental examination,
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veterinary consultation,
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vaccination updates.
Observe:
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appetite,
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coat quality,
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energy level,
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reaction to training.
Any change in behavior can be a sign of the body being overwhelmed after winter.
6. Caution with fresh grass
The first turnout onto lush pasture should be gradual.
Too rapid a transition to green forage can lead to:
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colic,
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diarrhea,
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laminitis.
👉 Start with 20-30 minutes a day and gradually extend the time.
Quick spring checklist (to save)
✔ Daily brushing during shedding
✔ Supplementation supporting coat and immunity
✔ Equipment inspection and cleaning
✔ Gradual increase in training
✔ Insect protection
✔ Hoof and dental check
✔ Gradual introduction to pasture
Well-planned preparation of your horse for spring means:
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fewer health problems,
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better condition,
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a smoother start to the competition or training season,
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greater comfort for both horse and rider.