There are several ways to measure your horse's height and weight. Two common methods is using a horse height measuring stick or tape. The horse height measuring tape can also be used to estimate your horse's weight using some simple calculations.

Tips for Measuring Horse Height & Weight

Using a Horse Height Measuring Stick:

The true classic method, and ensures accurate measurements!

Stand your horse on level ground, and make sure all four hooves are planted firmly on the ground and their head is held in a natural position. Stand beside your horse's shoulder, facing towards its hindquarters, with the Tough 1 Horse Height Measuring Stick in hand. Hold the measuring stick upright, with the bottom end firmly planted on the ground beside the horse's hoof. Extend the measuring stick upwards until the top end reaches the highest point of the horse's withers. The measuring stick should be parallel to your horse's body to obtain an accurate measurement in hands.

Horse Height is Measured in Hands

A "hand" is a unit of measurement commonly used to express the height of horses. One hand is equivalent to 4 inches or approximately 10.16 centimeters. 

When referring to a horse's height, it's typical to hear it described in terms of hands rather than inches or feet. For example, a horse that measures 15.2 hands is 15 hands plus an additional 2 inches, making it 62 inches tall at the withers (15 hands * 4 inches per hand + 2 inches = 62 inches).

Measuring Horse Height & Weight with a Tape:

A horse measuring tape like Tough 1’s Sure Measure Height & Weight Tape will measure a horse height and weight. There are several steps to follow:

When Measuring Height 

Step 1: Always make sure your horse is standing squarely on a flat, level surface with its head in a natural position, neither raised nor lowered.

Step 2: Stand beside the horse's shoulder, facing towards its hindquarters. Place the zero end of the measuring tape on the ground beside the horse's hoof. The tape should run vertically along the side of the horse, following the contour of its body, and extend up to the highest point of the withers.

Step 3: Extend the tape until it reaches the highest point of the horse's withers. Make sure the tape is straight and not angled. The measurement where the tape meets the withers indicates the horse's height in hands.

When Measuring Weight

Step 1: Make sure your horse is standing on a level surface with all four feet planted on the ground. 

Step 2: Stand beside the horse's shoulder, facing towards its hindquarters. Place the zero end at the lowest point of your horse’s withers, while the slack falls to the other side of your horse (usually the right side). 

Step 3: While holding on to the zero maker with your left hand, slide your right hand under your horse and bring the tape around the horse’s girth passing behind the elbows. Pull the tap up to meet the zero. Take note of the measurement indicated on the weight tape where it overlaps. This measurement is usually given in pounds or kilograms and provides an estimate of the horse's weight.

Please keep in mind that while weight tapes can provide a rough estimate of a horse's weight, they may not be as accurate as using a scale. For precise measurements, especially in situations where accurate weight is critical, it's best to use a scale if one is available.

Estimating Horse Weight

One method is to use the Heart Girth Formula. 

Weight (in pounds) = (Heart girth X Heart girth X Length) / 330

- Measure the Heart Girth : Use a flexible measuring tape to measure the circumference of the horse's girth. (Follow Step 2 Under When Measuring Weight) Record this measurement in inches.

- Measure the Length : Measure the length of the horse from the point of the shoulder to the point of the buttock (the "point of the hip" or "tuber coxae"). This measurement is typically taken along the horse's body, following the contour of its ribs. Record this measurement in inches.

- Square the Heart Girth : Square the heart girth measurement by multiplying it by itself (Heart Girth X Heart Girth). This accounts for the horse's body depth. 

- Multiply by Length and Divide by 330: Multiply the squared heart girth by the length of the horse, and then divide the result by 330.

- Convert to Weight: The final number you get is an estimation of the horse's weight in pounds.

Remember that while the heart girth formula is commonly used and can provide a reasonable estimate of a horse's weight, it may not be as accurate as weighing the horse on a scale. Additionally, different formulas may be used, depending on the horse's body shape and breed. Consulting with a veterinarian or equine professional can provide further guidance on estimating and managing a horse's weight.

Using a Horse Stock Scale 

Using a weight scale setup like Priefert’s Horse Stock Scale Platform makes recording weight measurements 100% accurate and takes the guesswork out of the equation; literally. Using a system like this requires careful handling to ensure accurate measurements and the safety of both you and your horse. Here's a step-by-step guide to using it properly:

Introduce Your Horse to the Stock: Lead your horse calmly and confidently into the stock. Encourage them with gentle commands and reassurance. This might take time, especially if your horse has never been in a stock. 

Secure Your Horse: This may include cross ties or head restraints to prevent the horse from moving around excessively during the weighing process. Ensure that the cross ties are not too tight, allowing the horse to stand comfortably.

Position the Horse on the Platform: Ensure that their weight is evenly distributed across all four hooves and that they are standing still. Any movement during the weighing process can affect the accuracy of the measurement.

Activate the Scale: Depending on the model of the Priefert Horse Stock, there may be a lever, button, or electronic interface to activate the scale. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to initiate the weighing process. Typically, the weight will be displayed on a digital readout or dial indicator.

Release your Horse: After obtaining the weight measurement, release the cross ties and allow your horse to exit the stock calmly and safely either from the front or back exit. Provide positive reinforcement and rewards for their cooperation during the process.

Note that you’ll also need the Priefert Tru-Test EziWeigh 5I Indicator with MP600 Load Bars for your Horse Stock Scale Platform to perform weighing applications. We suggest getting the full package with the Preifert Horse Stock! With adjustable front and rear doors and emergency side exits, Priefert’s Horse Stock easily fits most horses and mules for safe restraint. This versatile and affordable stock includes a Tie Bar and is ideal for vet work, for use as a wash rack, or anytime you want your horse to stand in a secured place.

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Accurate measurements are essential for proper nutrition, health monitoring, and equipment fitting. With the tips outlined in this guide, you'll never have to wonder about your horse's height or weight again. And if you're looking for the ultimate in accuracy, consider investing in a Priefert Horse Stock Scale Platform.

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