— and how to support them naturally through it
As the days grow longer and the sun climbs higher in the sky, horse owners everywhere begin to notice something familiar: hair. On the tack, in the trailer, and clinging to your clothes (& mouth!) like Velcro. Welcome to shedding season.
But did you know your horse’s shedding pattern offers more than just a signal that spring is coming? It can also be a valuable window into their overall health.
The Natural Rhythm of Shedding
Shedding is triggered by photoperiod—how much daylight your horse is exposed to—not by temperature. As daylight increases, the pineal gland signals the body to shift out of winter mode. In healthy horses, this means a steady release of the winter coat and the gradual reveal of a sleeker, summer-ready shine.
Most horses begin shedding in late winter to early spring. While breed, age, and living conditions can all affect the rate and amount of shedding, a consistent, full shed typically indicates that your horse’s metabolism, endocrine system, and overall vitality are in balance.
🚩 When Shedding Signals Trouble
On the flip side, an unusual coat—whether it's delayed shedding, patchy molting, or dull, dry hair—can hint at underlying issues. Keep an eye out for:
-
Slow or incomplete shedding — could signal hormonal imbalances, such as Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID; equine Cushing’s disease) or other metabolic concerns such as Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS).
-
Patchy hair loss — might point to parasites, skin infections, or nutritional deficiencies.
-
Persistent dull coat — often tied to poor digestion, liver congestion, or mineral imbalances.
These signs aren't just cosmetic—they’re your horse’s way of saying something’s off internally.
Supporting the Shedding Process Naturally
This seasonal shift is a prime time to give your horse a little extra support—especially when it comes to their nervous system, immune function, and skin health. Here’s how:
1. Mineral Rebalancing
-
Winter hay diets can lack key trace minerals that influence coat condition and hormone balance. Work with your vet or equine nutritionist to assess whether your horse might benefit from targeted mineral support—especially magnesium, zinc, and copper.
👉 Tip: Keep a log of shedding patterns and coat condition each spring—it can reveal subtle shifts in your horse’s nutrient needs over time.
2. Fuel the Coat from Within
-
A healthy, shiny coat starts on the inside. As your horse sheds out their winter coat and begins growing new hair, they need optimal levels of amino acids, essential fatty acids, and supportive vitamins to keep the process smooth.
Omega-3s, like those found in flax, wheat germ oil, or algae-based DHA, can help reduce inflammation and boost shine. Meanwhile, amino acids—especially lysine and methionine—are key for producing keratin, the protein that makes up the coat, skin, and hooves. Biotin, zinc, and copper also help strengthen the skin barrier and support healthy regrowth.
Consistent, balanced nutrition year-round helps prevent sluggish shedding, skin sensitivity, and brittle coats when spring rolls around.
👉 Tip: Rotate in omega-rich oils or amino acid supplements during coat transitions to give your horse’s skin and hair follicles the support they need to thrive.
3. Regular Grooming = Circulation Boost
-
Besides bonding time, daily grooming helps boost circulation to the skin and coat. Use a curry comb or shedding blade in rhythmic strokes—it’s like a natural massage to move lymph and loosen hair.
👉 Tip: Groom during the warmest part of the day to help loosen hair more easily and create a soothing, spa-like experience for your horse.
4. Soothe the Nervous System
-
Spring’s energetic shifts can leave some horses feeling a little... edgy. And stress plays a big role in overall health—including the skin and coat. Try Dr. Garber’s Equine Calm & Happy bioformula to support emotional balance, ease nervous tension, and help your horse feel more grounded during this transition.
👉 Tip: Offer during grooming time to create a calm, positive daily ritual that supports nervous system regulation.
5. Support Skin & Immune Health
-
The skin is the body’s largest detox organ, and during shedding season, it’s working overtime. Dr. Garber’s Equine Skin & Allergy bioformula supports healthy skin function, soothes irritation, and helps modulate immune responses—especially helpful for horses prone to itchy spring flare-ups or dull, flaky coats.
👉 Tip: Start supporting the skin early in the season to help prevent discomfort before it starts.
🐎 Remember: Shedding Is a Mirror
At its core, shedding season is your horse’s way of syncing with nature—and telling you how well their internal systems are functioning. A smooth, even shed usually signals robust health, while irregularities are worth a closer look.
By supporting your horse’s detox organs, feeding the right nutrients, and paying attention to their coat's condition, you’re not just helping them look good—you’re helping them feel good from the inside out.
Need help choosing the right formulas for your horse?
👉 Dr. Garber’s equine bioformulas are formulated with organic, ethically sourced ingredients and designed to work in harmony with the body—supporting your horse gently, effectively, and naturally through every season.
