Companion Animals

Horse Tack Fit and Welfare Assessment

Poorly fitting tack including saddles, bridles, and bits causes chronic pain that significantly impairs horse welfare and performance.

Key Facts

A survey found over 70% of saddles in use were not optimally fitted to the horse
Bit-induced pain is a common cause of ridden behaviour problems including head shaking and bolting
Noseband tightness that prevents mouth movement causes significant welfare harm
Horse back pain from saddle fit issues takes months to develop, masking the cause
Regular saddle fit assessment every 6 months or after significant weight change is recommended

Welfare Considerations

Tack-induced pain is insidious because horses adapt their movement and behaviour to accommodate it rather than stopping work. Pain from poorly fitting equipment is chronic and cumulative, causing significant welfare harm that is often attributed to training problems rather than physical causes.

What You Can Do

Have saddles checked by a qualified saddle fitter at least annually
Assess noseband tightness using the two-finger rule as a minimum
Consult an equine dentist and vet before changing bit type for behaviour problems
Learn about ridden behaviour indicators of tack discomfort