Measuring Your Horse’s Height

When describing your horse, accurate height measurements are important. Here’s a step-by-step guide to measuring your horse’s height with a standard tape measure.

Understanding Horse Height Measurements

Horses are measured in “hands,” with one hand equaling 4 inches. The height is measured from the ground to the highest point of the withers - the ridge between the horse’s shoulder blades.

What You’ll Need

• A flat, level surface for your horse to stand on.
• A standard measuring tape.
• A helper to hold the horse still, if necessary.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Horse: Place your horse on a flat, solid surface. Ensure it’s standing squarely with weight evenly distributed on all four legs.
2. Find the Withers: The withers are the highest point of the shoulders, where the neck meets the back. This is the reference point for measuring height.
3. Use the Measuring Tape: Using a measuring tape, hold one end at the ground and stretch it up to the withers, keeping it as straight as possible.
4. Record the Measurement: Note the height in inches. If the height doesn’t divide evenly into hands, convert the remaining inches into fractions of a hand.
5. Example 1: A horse that measures 58 inches high would be 14½ hands (58/4 = 14.5), but because two is half of four, it is expressed as 14.2 hh.
6. Example 2: A horse that measures 57 inches, is 14.1 hh, 59 inches is 14.3 hh, and 60 inches is 15 hh.

Tips for Accurate Measurements

• Always measure on a flat, level surface to avoid errors.
• Consider having a helper keep your horse calm and still during the process.
• Repeat the measurement a few times to ensure accuracy.

Accurate measurements help potential buyers know your horse’s size. A well-described horse not only builds trust with buyers but also increases your chances of a successful sale.