HOW TO: Take Bodyweight Measurements

Understanding both your horse's present weight AND ideal weight is essential for achieving nutritional success! Although most horse owners do not have access to livestock scales, researchers have devised reliable methods to estimate your horse's weight based on body measurements.

The Carroll & Huntington (1988) equation uses 2 measurements to predict a horse's body weight. Though simple, it’s been reported to be an accurate formula (~1% error), and thus can be helpful for the horse owner who does not have access to a livestock scale.

Ensure your horse is standing square, on a flat surface. Then, take the following measurements. 

• Measurement 1 - Body Length: Measure from the point of shoulder to the point of buttocks. Record this measurement. 

  
  

• Measurement 2 - Heart Girth: Starting 1 inch behind the highest point of the withers, measure around their heart girth. 

  
  

• Note: We recommend keeping records of these measurements to track changes over time!

If using centimeters, these measurements can be used in the following equation to estimate body weight in kilograms (kg): 

BW (kg) = (hg x hg x l) ÷ 11877

If using inches, these measurements can be used in the following equation to estimate bodyweight in pounds (lbs): 

BW (lbs) = (hg x hg x l) ÷ 330

We will ask for these measurements during virtual nutrition consults to help us predict and model your horse's individual nutritional requirements. We collect these measurements, as well as other body assessments, during our on-site appointments, to gain complete accurate picture of how we can best support your horse with nutrition!

Have a question about estimating your horse's body weight? We can help!

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HOW TO Take Bodyweight Measurements .pdf

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