Clipping a Horse: Our Gypsy Vanner Glow-Ups at BLeaves Farms
Here at BLeaves Farms, we’re honored to share our lives with some truly magical animals like our Gypsy Vanner horses. Known for their stunning long coats, flowing manes, and iconic feathered legs, these horses are truly living fairy tales. But under all that hair? They have even more beauty just waiting to be revealed!
Whether for show season, health reasons, comfort in warmer weather, bonding time, learning a new skill, or curiosity, body clipping is an essential skill for horse owners…especially in sunny Arizona. Today we’re sharing our experience learning to clip our own Gypsy Vanners, what tools and tips helped us the most, and why we’re loving the results!
Why Clip a Gypsy Vanner?
Gypsy Vanners grow long, thick coats that protect them during cold winters. We typically let our horses stay fluffy through the chillier months so they stay naturally insulated and avoid the need for blanketing. But when the sun returns, or we’ve got exercise or events planned, that extra fluff can turn into a sweat trap.
Clipping helps them cool down faster, reduces risk of skin issues from dampness, and lets their true coloring shine through. Some Gypsies look like entirely different horses once clipped! It’s also standard for showing, where that sleek, polished look really turns heads. And yes, we always leave the feathers, because they’re iconic. Unless there is a health issue that may necessitate trimming them off.
Our Favorite Clipper: Andis AGC Super 2-Speed with T-84 Blade
The Andis® AGC Super 2-Speed™ Clipper with T-84 Blade is hands-down our favorite. It’s a tried and true clipper used by professionals. These clippers are incredibly powerful, quiet, and hold up well to thick coats. The T-84 blade it comes with is perfect for tackling body hair on even the fluffiest Gypsy Vanner.
Want a slightly finer finish and to prevent lines? The T-10 Blade is another great option for body clipping, and is what we opted for this go around. We could not have been more pleased! If you’re doing delicate areas like the face, some people prefer a #30 or #40 blade, which offer a much finer cut. We found that the T-10 was just right for our needs. It gave us a close clip without being too harsh and worked on both body and face alike.
Clipping Essentials You’ll Need
Besides the clippers, here’s what we always keep on hand:
- Long Outdoor Extension Cord: You’ll want freedom to move around.
- Andis Blade Oil: Keeps your blades running smoothly.
- Cooling Spray & Cleaner: Essential for safety and comfort.
- Soft Rag or Towel: For wiping off loose hair and cleaning clippers.
Keeping Blades Sharp & Safe
Over time, clipper blades dull. If you’re clipping several horses a year, it’s worth having them sharpened by a professional. Look for a local blade sharpening service. Many farm supply stores or farriers know someone reliable. For average use, sharpen at least once per year, or more if you notice tugging or uneven cuts. Or, you can buy a replacement blade like the T-10 we mentioned above.
Blades also heat up during use. To avoid burning your horse, use cooling spray on the blades often, and take breaks during long clips. Turn off the clippers and place the metal blade against your wrist. If it’s too hot to you, it’s too hot for them! Check every few minutes.
Desensitizing Your Horse to Clippers
Not every horse takes to clippers right away, especially if they’re green. Our Gypsy hadn’t been clipped before, so we took time to desensitize her following these steps:
- Start with the clippers off.
While your horse is on a lead rope, allow them to sniff and inspect the clippers. Let them see it’s nothing to be afraid of. - Use approach and retreat.
Slowly move the clippers toward your horse, then pull them back. Repeat this motion several times until your horse begins to show curiosity or signs of acceptance. - Encourage them to walk toward the clippers.
Let your horse approach the clippers on their own. Walk away from your horse, gently encouraging them to follow using the lead rope. This builds confidence and reinforces that the clippers aren’t a threat. - Introduce the sound.
Turn the clippers on but keep them away from your horse. Let them get used to the sound before any physical contact is made. - Touch them with the clippers off.
Rub the clippers gently on a non-sensitive area like the shoulder or side while they’re still turned off. This gets your horse used to the feel. - Gradually turn the clippers on during contact.
Once your horse is comfortable with the clippers touching them while off, turn them on and gently touch the same area. Keep your movements calm and slow. - Reward calm behavior.
Offer soothing praise or a scratch in their favorite spot when they remain relaxed. Positive reinforcement is key. - Be patient and consistent.
If your horse reacts nervously, do not turn the clippers off or pull them away immediately. Wait for them to calm down, then remove the clippers. This teaches them that relaxing ends the experience, not reacting.
It took us a few tries, but eventually she stood like a pro and even seemed to enjoy the experience!
Clipping Technique: Tips from the Barn
- Start with a clean, dry horse. Bathe, brush, and fully dry before you begin.
- Work against the grain of the hair for the cleanest cut.
- Start on the shoulder. It’s a less sensitive area and builds confidence.
- Take breaks. Both you and your horse will appreciate it!
- Watch the sun. Natural light is great, but plan ahead. It goes down fast!
Our first attempt took hours (and left us sore!), but it was peaceful, empowering, and actually kind of meditative. It’s like hairdressing for your dream horse, and when your horse stands like a queen for it, it’s incredibly rewarding.
Let’s Connect!
We share all our animal adventures, from grooming sessions to garden updates and rescue stories, on social media. Come follow along:
We’d love to see your clips (pun intended) or answer any questions you have. Let’s keep learning and growing together.
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