Need More Tail? Try An Extension!

PC: Brianna at Flickr

It’s unfortunate, but not every horse has a full, lush tail. Once you begin showing in bigger breed shows not having a thick tail can really put a damper on your score. That’s why horse owners and trainers often turn to tail extensions. They can add a lot of volume to skimpy natural hair.

Extensions are not for everyone though. Depending on your horse’s breed, they may not even be allowed. Morgans and Arabians must be shown with natural tails. However, Quarter Horses, Paints, and Saddlebreds are frequently showed with them. You must also consider the type of show and circuit. Many western pleasure and showmanship horses may sport the look.

A good tail extension will match your horse’s natural color. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to hundreds, depending on the weight, color, and quality. Basic colors, such as chestnut and black, will be cheaper than your whites and tri-colored ones. Big tails are favored in the stock horse industry. These extensions are called weighted tails and can be as heavy as two pounds. They are designed to lay flat against the horse’s hind.

Most are applied through braided ties or horsehair loops. Based on their placement, they can swing or stay rather still. Extensions are only designed to be used for shows, and never overnight. They can be cared for like your horse’s regular hair, since they are 100% real. Special bags house the tails, until the next usage.

While tail extensions are not for your everyday rider, they can make a big difference in the presentation of your horse in the show ring. They have been a popular trend for years now. If your horse has a thin tail and you want to improve your scores, it might be time to consider one!