Chin RubsUpdated 9 months ago

If your horse has developed a sore spot on their chin, we definitely want to address it. An adjustment can prevent this, or if you can size up one size, that can also be helpful. First, ensure that your muzzle is facing the correct direction with the raised logo in front as they are narrower side to side, and depending on which size you have, the front and back may be shaped a little differently. If you have not done so already, send us a photo of everything on them directly from the side with their head up so we can see how everything is fitting. If they are developing a sore, typically, the best thing to do is to make the backside of the muzzle a flat, smooth surface so the chin slips across it rather than rubbing over the open holes. There are photos and video links below, as well as one way that you can make the muzzle a little larger if you already have our largest size (currently horse size) or aren't able to exchange the one you have because you're outside of the 30-day return window. 

Cover the Holes:

Our Protector sticker or a smooth tape like Gorilla tape are great options. We don't typically recommend adding extra padding as that reduces the amount of space in the muzzle, and most material ends up holding moisture, gets dirty, and becomes abrasive over time. That said, we have had good luck adding something flat that won't hold moisture, like a thin piece of plastic cut from a flexible plastic cutting board or plastic folder, to lay over the holes before covering it with smooth tape/stickers. This can provide a flatter surface than just the tape/stickers alone (see photo below). Add some ointment like Vaseline or triple antibiotic to lubricate the chin and protect the skin from excess moisture while it heals.

Tape method- Make sure the tape is very smooth. If there's any texture to it, especially in the center where their chin moves across it, that will add to the rubs. Ensure that the tape edges do not cross the center where their chin touches the most, as even that can create enough texture to irritate the chin. My favorite tape is the extra wide gorilla tape because it ends up much smoother than most duct tape and typically lasts longer because it's very thick. The wide tape allows it to have fewer edges as well. Add or replace the tape when it looks like it may be wearing through. 

Here's a video tutorial for the Gorilla Tape Method.

Adjust the Straps:

Sometimes, the culprit can also be the strap that connects the chin side of the muzzle to the halter. A different adjustment can often fix this. If you think this may be the issue or if the rubs are higher up on the face, more in the jaw/noseband area, we have different options in this video.

Modify:

We can modify the muzzle to make it larger if you are willing to be a little handy. Here is a video tutorial on how to do that. Materials needed are a leather hole punch, zip ties, and a strap to punch a hole through. The photo shows Biothane, but strips of leather like an old stirrup leather/set of reins could also be a great option.