Healthy skin is the foundation of a gorgeous, dappled coat — and a comfortable, happy horse. Yet between sweat, bugs, weather changes, and training, horses often face irritating skin problems that can lead to dull coats and discomfort.
At Dapple Up, we’re passionate about gentle, plant-based horse shampoo that supports skin health naturally. Here’s a guide to some of the most common horse skin issues and how to help prevent and manage them.
🐎 1. Rain Rot (Dermatophilosis)
What it looks like: Small raised bumps that turn into scabby, flaky patches along the back, croup, or rump — especially after wet weather.
Why it happens: Bacteria thrive in damp, sweaty conditions under blankets or tack.
How to help:
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Keep your horse clean and dry after rain or workouts.
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Curry out scabs gently and wash with a natural horse shampoo that won’t strip essential oils.
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Give the area plenty of sunlight and airflow.
🐴 2. Sweet Itch (Insect Bite Sensitivity)
What it looks like: Intense itching and hair loss along the mane, tail, and belly.
Why it happens: An allergic reaction to biting midges (Culicoides). Warm, buggy seasons make it worse.
How to help:
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Bathe with shampoos containing insect-repelling essential oils like lemongrass and peppermint (both featured in Dapple Up).
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Use fly sheets and masks during peak bug times.
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Keep paddocks clean to reduce insect breeding grounds.
🐎 3. Dandruff & Dry, Flaky Skin
What it looks like: Flakes that show up under the saddle or on the mane and neck.
Why it happens: Harsh detergents, cold weather, or poor nutrition can dry the skin.
How to help:
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Skip chemical-heavy shampoos that strip moisture.
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Use a moisturizing, coconut-based horse shampoo (like Dapple Up) to cleanse while protecting the skin barrier.
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Regular brushing helps spread natural oils for a glossy coat.
🐴 4. Hives (Urticaria)
What it looks like: Sudden raised bumps or welts that appear overnight.
Why it happens: Allergic reaction to bugs, bedding, feed changes, or certain grooming products.
How to help:
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Rinse allergens off with a gentle, plant-based shampoo.
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Switch to hypoallergenic grooming products.
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Contact your vet if hives persist or your horse seems uncomfortable.
🐎 5. Scratches / Mud Fever (Pastern Dermatitis)
What it looks like: Crusty scabs, irritation, or swelling on the back of the pasterns.
Why it happens: Wet, muddy conditions weaken the skin barrier, allowing bacteria or fungus to take hold.
How to help:
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Keep legs clean and dry after turnout.
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Use a soothing natural shampoo to cleanse without over-scrubbing.
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Trim feathers if your horse is prone to scratches.
✨ Why Dapple Up Works for Sensitive Skin
We created Dapple Up Healthy Equine Shampoo with a coconut-based surfactant blend — powerful enough to clean sweat and grime, yet gentle on sensitive skin. Our proprietary formula includes peppermint and lemongrass essential oils to help soothe irritation, promote coat shine, and naturally repel pests — all while staying Kentucky Proud and free from harsh chemicals.
Healthy skin = a shiny, happy, high-performing horse. 🌟🐎
💜 Grooming Tips for Skin Health
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Rinse sweat and dirt after heavy rides or turnout.
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Avoid harsh detergents — choose natural horse shampoo for sensitive skin.
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Check problem areas (mane, tail, pasterns, under saddle) regularly.
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Consult your veterinarian for persistent or severe issues.
At Dapple Up, we believe every horse deserves a healthy coat, soothed skin, and products made with love — for the horse, for the rider, for the community. 💜
