Saddle fitting, use and maintenance
Advice on saddle fitting and maintenance by the Animal Health Trust in collaboration with World Horse Welfare.
Advice on saddle fitting and maintenance by the Animal Health Trust in collaboration with World Horse Welfare.
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Did you know a poorly fitting or maintained saddle can cause injury and welfare problems for your horse?
The former Animal Health Trust in collaboration with World Horse Welfare compiled some simple advice for fitting, using and maintaining your saddle. Our research has highlighted key areas that should be carefully considered when fitting a new saddle, which will help to maintain and develop the horse’s top line and reduce the likelihood of back pain.
It is also important to remember to maintain your saddle properly and to make sure it fits both yourself and your horse throughout the year.
Saddlery leaflet
The guide outlines:
- Types of saddles available
- Considerations when fitting saddles to horses
- Recognising issues with saddle fit
- Saddle use and maintenance
Last updated: 23/6/2026. Advice collated by the World Horse Welfare research and education team and externally reviewed by Dr Sye Dyson, MA Vet MB PhD
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