Over-rugging of horses is a widespread welfare concern that compromises thermoregulation, natural behaviour, and skin health.
Over-rugging prevents horses from thermoregulating naturally, causing overheating and thermal stress even in mild weather. Rugged horses are denied the natural behaviour of rolling freely and engaging in social grooming. Heavy rugs restrict movement and may mask condition loss by preventing owners from monitoring body condition. Constant rugging without removal for adequate periods can cause skin conditions, pressure sores, and muscle restriction. Evidence increasingly supports that most horses in temperate climates need significantly less rugging than currently provided.