How to Groom Your Horse for a Local Show or Pony Club Day

Horse grooming kit laid out in a stable with a clean black English saddle on a wooden rack, sponges, brushes, hoof picks, and a neatly folded saddle pad ready for show preparation.

How to Groom Your Pony for a Local Show or Pony Club Day

There’s something special about show mornings. The mix of excitement, nerves, and anticipation makes every Pony Club rally or local show feel like a big event—even if you’re just entering the in-hand class or taking part in a fun ride. And it all starts with turning your horse out beautifully.

Grooming your horse properly before a show is about much more than looking good (although that’s definitely part of it). A well-groomed horse shows that you care, that you’re prepared, and that you respect the occasion. Plus, it’s a great bonding time between you and your horse.

Let’s go through the steps to get your horse looking their absolute best—without the stress.

🧼 Start the Night Before

Trying to do everything on the morning of the show is a recipe for panic. The best show grooming starts the day before.

Give your horse a proper groom from top to tail. Use your curry comb or rubber mitt to bring dirt to the surface, then your dandy brush to flick it all away.
Pick out the hooves and check for stones or anything unusual.
Detangle the mane and tail gently with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb. A small spray of detangler helps avoid breaking hairs.
Trim whiskers and feathers if your discipline or class allows. Use scissors carefully or electric trimmers if your horse is used to them.

💡 If your horse is grey or light-coloured, consider giving them a full bath the evening before. That way, they’ll be dry by morning and less likely to roll immediately.

🛁 Show Day: Quick Wash or Touch-Up?

On the morning of your event, assess what needs doing. A quick sponge down may be all that’s needed, or you might want to wash specific areas like legs, tails, or manes.

Focus on:

Face and muzzle — wipe with a damp cloth to remove hay or food
Legs and pasterns — especially if there’s any mud or stable stains
Tail — if it’s dusty or dull, rinse with water or dry shampoo
Hooves — pick out and brush clean

Use a clean towel to give your horse a quick polish all over, especially on the neck, shoulders, and back.

✨ Final Grooming Touches Before You Leave

This is the fun part—where everything comes together!

1. Coat shine spray

A light mist over the coat (not on the saddle area) adds shine and helps dust slide off. Use a soft brush to smooth it over.

2. Mane and tail

Use a soft brush to neaten both. You might braid or plait depending on your class—check your discipline’s turnout rules. Even just neatening the mane and tail makes a huge difference.

3. Hoof oil or polish

This gives a tidy finish and shows attention to detail. Avoid if it’ll make your horse slip on wet or uneven ground.

4. Tidy up your horse’s face

Use a soft brush or damp sponge around the eyes and nostrils. A little baby oil on a cloth can add shine to the muzzle and around the eyes—just don’t overdo it!

🧽 Don’t Forget the Tack

Even the best grooming job can be let down by muddy boots or dusty reins. Give your tack a once-over the night before and again in the morning.

Wipe down saddle and bridle with a damp cloth
Polish any metalwork
Clean your numnah or saddle pad
Check everything is in good repair—no frayed stitching or loose buckles

If you’re using coloured accessories (like a matching browband or saddle pad), make sure they’re clean and fit well.

👒 What About You?

You don’t need to be in full competition turnout, but you should aim to look neat and show-ready too.

Clothes: Check the Pony Club or event guidelines for dress codes. Jodhpurs, a clean shirt, and a tidy jumper or jacket are usually fine.
Boots: Polish them or give them a wipe. Clean boots show you’ve made the effort.
Hair: Tie it back neatly. A hairnet or tidy plait is ideal.

First impressions count—for you and your horse!

🐴 Danielle Tip:

If your horse is the type to roll in muck the second you turn your back, keep a lightweight stable rug or show sheet on them while you get dressed or load the trailer. It won’t stop everything, but it’s a lifesaver for keeping their back and sides clean just before you leave.

💡 Things to Pack for Last-Minute Touch Ups

Don’t forget your grooming kit at home! Here’s what’s worth bringing:

Soft brush or body brush
Cloth or towel
Hoof pick and hoof oil
Mane comb and spray
Coat shine or dry shampoo
Spare sponge and water in a bottle
Baby wipes (they’re magic for everything)

Pack it all in a small bucket or grooming bag so it’s easy to carry and keeps you organised.

🌟 You’re Ready to Shine

Grooming your horse for a local show or Pony Club day is about more than brushing and polishing—it’s part of the pride and joy of riding. You don’t need fancy gear or hours of time. Just a good plan, the right tools, and a bit of confidence.

You’ve already done the hard work in your daily care—this is just your chance to show it off. And remember: judges notice attitude and effort just as much as spotless coats.

So groom with care, ride with pride, and enjoy every moment of your special day.

👉 Looking for more helpful horse care tips? Click here to browse all our How To Guides.