by Brenda Nelson

Created on: January 19, 2012   Last Updated: January 23, 2012

Horses do not often need weighing, but sometimes this is required for administration of medicine, to work out a feeding program, or to monitor growth rate and condition of the horse. There are several methods of weighing a horse, some more accurate than others.

-A Scale-

If a horse owner is located near an auction market used for cattle they could try to arrange a time to have their horse weighed. The horse simply has to walk onto the scale and its weight is recorded instantly. Some equine veterinary specialists also have scales for accurately weighing a horse but overall it is unlikely to find one that does. Other methods of calculating a horse's weight are really calculated estimates.

-Heart Girth and Length for Weight in Pounds-

Two measurements are taken in inches. First measure the heart girth; this is done by measuring from the base of the horse's withers to just behind the front legs, under the belly and up to the same point behind the withers. Another measurement is taken from the point of shoulder to the point of rump, in other words the full length of the horse's body. To get the weight: Heart Girth x Heart Girth x Length divide by 330 = approximate weight in pounds.

If you have a pony or young horse, use 300 rather than 330 for the division part.

-Heart Girth and Length for Weight in Kilograms-

Take the same measurements as above, but in centimeters and apply the following mathematics.

Heart Girth x Heart Girth x Length divide by 11,900 = approximate weight in kilograms.

If you have a pony or young horse, use 10,800 for the division part, rather than 11,900.

-Weight Tape-

Most livestock feed stores or saddlery shops sell a tape measure marked for the purpose of determining the weight of a horse. Generally the heart girth measurement is taken and used, in addition to the height of horse to determine weight.

-Tips and Considerations for Weighing a Horse-

The estimates are less accurate for underweight, overweight, the overall condition of the horse should be considered. Weight for pregnant mares will also be off.

Keep in mind that muscle weights more than fat, a fit trim horse may actually weigh the same as a slightly fatter horse.

The horse should be stood square on level ground for measuring.

If possible a second person can be used to assist in holding the measuring tape.

Remember only a scale is accurate, the other measurements are estimates.

Horse owners will want to write their horse's weight down and keep it someplace they can find it, as well as notes on the horse's general condition. This way they may not have to measure over and over again, as weight is easily forgotten.

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