Does your horse have a habit of “cribbing”? It’s when a horse bites onto something, like a fence or stall door, and sucks in air. This can be a real problem for horse owners! It can damage fences, and some horses even lose weight because they swallow air instead of food. Finding the right cribbing collar can feel like a puzzle. There are so many different kinds, and it’s hard to know which one will actually work for your horse and be comfortable for them.
But don’t worry! This blog post is here to help you sort through all the options. We’ll break down what makes a good cribbing collar and what to look for. You’ll learn how to choose a collar that fits your horse well and helps stop the cribbing without causing them any discomfort. By the end of this guide, you’ll feel much more confident about picking the perfect cribbing collar for your equine friend. Let’s dive in and discover how to make your horse’s life (and yours!) a little easier.
Our Top 5 Cribbing Collars For Horses Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cribbing Collars For Horses Detailed Reviews
1. Professional’s Choice The Dare Cribbing Control Collar
Rating: 8.7/10
The Professional’s Choice The Dare Cribbing Control Collar in Burgundy offers a reliable solution for horses that crib. This collar aims to correct cribbing behavior effectively while keeping your horse comfortable. It’s designed for durability and ease of use, making it a practical choice for horse owners and trainers.
What We Like:
- The patented 3D throat piece is designed for effective cribbing control, even in tough cases. It discourages cribbing without putting too much pressure on your horse’s neck.
- The single, wide strap stays securely in place. It provides comfort because you don’t need to overtighten it.
- It’s fully reversible with roller buckles on both sides. This makes it easy to put on and adjust from either side of your horse.
- The collar is made from high-quality leather. This means it’s built to last through daily use and years of training.
- The adjustable fit works for most horses. You can even add more holes for a perfect fit. The removable fleece cover adds extra comfort, especially for sensitive horses or for all-day wear.
What Could Be Improved:
- While designed for effectiveness, some horses might require a period of adjustment to the collar.
- The burgundy color, while attractive, might show dirt more easily in certain barn environments.
Overall, the Dare Cribbing Control Collar is a well-made and thoughtfully designed tool for managing cribbing. It balances effectiveness with horse comfort, making it a strong contender for your barn.
2. Professional’s Choice The Dare Cribbing Control Collar
Rating: 9.2/10
Dealing with a horse that cribs can be frustrating, but the Professional’s Choice The Dare Cribbing Control Collar offers a smart solution. This collar is designed to help stop cribbing without causing your horse discomfort. It’s made from tough leather and has a special design that works even for horses that crib a lot. You can adjust it easily to fit your horse perfectly, and it even has a soft fleece cover for extra comfort.
What We Like:
- The patented throat piece is very effective at stopping cribbing.
- It stays put without needing to be too tight, making it comfortable for your horse.
- You can put it on from either side, which makes it super easy to use every day.
- The strong leather means it will last a long time.
- It’s adjustable for a great fit, and the removable fleece adds comfort for all-day wear.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it fits most horses, some might need extra holes punched for a perfect fit.
This collar is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable way to manage cribbing. It’s built to last and designed with your horse’s well-being in mind.
3. Tough 1 Synthetic Poly Crib Be Gone Comfort Collar
Rating: 8.7/10
Tired of your horse’s cribbing habit? The Tough 1 Synthetic Poly Crib Be Gone Comfort Collar offers a simple solution. This collar is designed to gently discourage cribbing, helping to protect your horse’s teeth and improve their overall well-being. It’s made with comfortable synthetic material and comes in a classic brown color, size medium, to fit many horses.
What We Like:
- It immediately stops cribbing behaviors.
- The collar has a smart design that fits comfortably around your horse’s jaw.
- Straps go over the crown and forehead, keeping the collar secure.
- It only applies pressure when your horse tries to crib.
- Your horse can wear it all day without it bothering them while they eat or graze.
- The synthetic material is durable and easy to clean.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some horses might need a short adjustment period to get used to wearing it.
- While it comes in a medium size, other size options would be beneficial for a perfect fit on all horses.
This collar is a practical tool for horse owners seeking to manage cribbing. Its clever design ensures comfort and effectiveness, making it a valuable addition to your horse care routine.
4. Weaver Leather Nylon and Aluminum Cribbing Strap
Rating: 9.0/10
Keep your horse comfortable and safe with the Weaver Leather Nylon and Aluminum Cribbing Strap. This strap is designed to gently discourage cribbing, a habit that can harm your horse’s teeth and overall health. It’s made with quality materials and thoughtful design.
What We Like:
- The 1-inch wide brown nylon strap is strong and comfortable for your horse.
- The lightweight aluminum cribbing bar is effective without being too heavy.
- Nickel-plated hardware adds a touch of durability and a nice finish.
- It’s made by Weaver Leather, a trusted name in quality equine products from Mt. Hope, Ohio.
- The simple design makes it easy to put on and take off.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a wider range of color options beyond brown.
- While effective, the aluminum bar might show wear over extended, heavy use.
This Weaver Leather cribbing strap offers a practical solution for managing cribbing. It’s a reliable and well-made accessory for any horse owner.
5. Weaver Leather Miracle Collar Havana
Rating: 9.1/10
The Weaver Leather Miracle Collar in Havana, size Large, offers a comfortable and effective solution for your canine companion. Crafted from durable harness leather, this collar is designed to be gentle on your dog’s coat, preventing irritation and breakage. Its smart design ensures the collar stays securely in place, maximizing its intended benefits during walks or training sessions. You can trust the quality, as it’s proudly made by Weaver Leather in Mt. Hope, Ohio.
What We Like:
- The harness leather feels soft and won’t rub your dog’s fur.
- It’s built to last with strong stainless steel hardware.
- The collar stays put, so it works the way it’s supposed to.
- You know you’re getting a quality product from a reputable maker.
What Could Be Improved:
- For some, the “miracle” aspect might be a bit of an overpromise, as effectiveness can vary by dog.
- While durable, the leather might require occasional conditioning to maintain its suppleness over time.
This collar provides a reliable and comfortable experience for your dog. It’s a solid choice for owners seeking durability and thoughtful design.
Choosing the Right Cribbing Collar for Your Horse
Horses are amazing creatures, but sometimes they develop habits like cribbing. Cribbing is when a horse bites onto a solid object, like a fence or stall door, and sucks in air. This can be bad for their teeth and can even cause them to swallow air, leading to digestive problems. Cribbing collars are a popular tool to help stop this behavior. This guide will help you pick the best one for your equine friend.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a cribbing collar, keep these important features in mind.
- Adjustability: A good collar fits your horse snugly but not too tight. Look for collars with adjustable straps. This lets you get the perfect fit for your horse’s neck.
- Comfort Padding: The collar should have soft padding where it touches your horse’s neck. This stops the collar from rubbing and causing sores. Neoprene or fleece padding is usually good.
- Durability: You want a collar that lasts. Strong stitching and tough materials are signs of a well-made collar.
- Ease of Use: The collar should be easy to put on and take off your horse. Simple buckle or Velcro closures make this much easier.
- Effectiveness: The main goal is to stop cribbing. The collar should apply gentle pressure that discourages the horse from grabbing.
Important Materials
The materials used in a cribbing collar affect its comfort, durability, and how well it works.
- Nylon: This is a very common material for cribbing collars. It’s strong, lightweight, and easy to clean. Many collars use a strong nylon webbing.
- Leather: High-quality leather can be very durable and comfortable. It often looks good too. However, leather can be more expensive and needs regular care to keep it in good shape.
- Neoprene: This is a type of synthetic rubber. It’s often used for padding. Neoprene is soft, flexible, and waterproof. It provides a comfortable cushion against your horse’s skin.
- Fleece: Similar to neoprene, fleece lining adds extra comfort. It’s soft and breathable, preventing irritation.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a cribbing collar better or worse.
Quality Enhancers:
- Reinforced Stitching: Strong, double stitching means the collar is less likely to break.
- High-Quality Hardware: Sturdy buckles and D-rings made from strong metal last longer and are more reliable.
- Ergonomic Design: A collar shaped to fit the natural curves of a horse’s neck offers better comfort and effectiveness.
- Breathable Padding: Materials that allow air to circulate help prevent sweating and skin irritation.
Quality Reducers:
- Cheap Plastic Buckles: These can break easily.
- Thin, Flimsy Material: A collar made from weak fabric won’t last long.
- Poor Stitching: Loose or uneven stitches are a sign of low quality.
- Irritating Materials: Rough or non-breathable materials can cause discomfort and sores.
User Experience and Use Cases
Most horse owners use cribbing collars to help their horses stop cribbing.
- Preventing Cribbing: The primary use is to discourage the horse from grabbing objects and sucking air. The collar applies pressure when the horse tries to crib.
- Improving Horse Health: By stopping cribbing, the collar helps prevent dental wear and digestive issues.
- Protecting Property: It can also save fences, stall doors, and other equipment from damage.
- Training Aid: Some trainers use cribbing collars as part of a larger training program to correct the behavior.
It’s important to remember that a cribbing collar is a tool. It works best when used correctly and as part of a plan to address the root cause of the cribbing behavior. Always consult with a veterinarian or experienced horse trainer if you have concerns about your horse’s behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cribbing Collars
Q: What is cribbing?
A: Cribbing is when a horse bites onto something solid, like a stall door, and sucks in air. It’s a habit that can harm their teeth and digestion.
Q: How does a cribbing collar work?
A: A cribbing collar applies gentle pressure to the horse’s throat when they try to crib. This pressure discourages them from biting and sucking air.
Q: Are cribbing collars safe for my horse?
A: When fitted correctly and used as intended, cribbing collars are generally safe. They should not be so tight that they restrict breathing. Always check for rubbing or sores.
Q: How tight should a cribbing collar be?
A: The collar should be snug enough to apply pressure when the horse tries to crib, but not so tight that it restricts breathing or causes discomfort. You should be able to slip two fingers between the collar and your horse’s neck.
Q: How often should I check my horse’s cribbing collar?
A: You should check the collar daily. Look for any signs of rubbing, irritation, or damage to the collar itself.
Q: Can I leave a cribbing collar on my horse all the time?
A: It’s usually best to only use the collar when you can supervise your horse, or during times when cribbing is most likely to occur. Leaving it on constantly can lead to skin irritation or the horse getting used to the pressure.
Q: What is the best material for a cribbing collar?
A: Nylon is a popular choice because it’s strong and easy to clean. Leather can also be good if it’s high quality. Look for soft padding like neoprene or fleece for comfort.
Q: How do I clean a cribbing collar?
A: Most nylon collars can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Leather collars need special leather cleaner and conditioner.
Q: Will a cribbing collar completely stop my horse from cribbing?
A: A cribbing collar can greatly reduce or stop the behavior, but it doesn’t always cure it completely. It’s a helpful tool, but sometimes other training methods are needed.
Q: Where is the best place to buy a cribbing collar?
A: You can find cribbing collars at most tack shops, feed stores, and online retailers that sell equestrian supplies.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.