Horse Saddlery and Back Welfare | Animal Welfare Hub

How saddle fit affects horse back health, pain, and performance, and the welfare importance of regular assessment.

Key Facts

Ill-fitting saddles are among the most common causes of back pain and poor performance in ridden horses
Pressure from a poorly fitting saddle can cause muscle atrophy, nerve damage, and behavioral changes
Horses rarely vocalise back pain and may only show subtle behavioral resistance
Qualified saddle fitters assess both static and dynamic fit, including the horse under load
Saddles should be refitted when horses gain or lose muscle, change age, or begin new work
Behavioral changes such as girthiness, reluctance to be ridden, and rearing can signal saddle pain

Welfare Considerations

Saddle fit is a welfare issue that is frequently overlooked because its consequences manifest gradually and subtly. A horse experiencing back pain from a poorly fitting saddle may work for months or years with chronic discomfort, showing signs that are misinterpreted as training problems rather than physical pain. Routine saddle fitting by a qualified practitioner — particularly when horses change condition or workload — is one of the most direct ways riders can protect their horse's welfare. The welfare case for regular saddle assessment is compelling and straightforward.

What You Can Do

Have your saddle assessed by a qualified saddle fitter at least annually and when horses change condition
Learn to recognize behavioral signs of back pain in ridden horses including reluctance to go forward
Request a veterinary back examination for any horse showing persistent performance or behavioral problems
Never assume behavioral issues in ridden horses are training problems without ruling out physical causes
Support research into saddle fit measurement technologies that provide objective welfare data