Flaking skin on horses is common—but many riders don’t know exactly what causes it. Amid stable gossip and half-truths, there are plenty of misconceptions. It’s time to debunk the biggest myths.

Myth 1: Dandruff is just a cosmetic problem

Wrong – Flakes can be a sign of dry skin, parasites, or even infections. If you ignore them, you run the risk of minor irritations developing into serious skin problems.

Myth 2: Washing frequently improves the skin

On the contrary: Washing too often with harsh shampoos strips the skin of its natural oils. This causes the skin to dry out, leading to even more flaking. So, in this case, less is more.

Did you know?Your horse’s skin makes up as much as 12% of its body weight. It’s not just a protective layer, but also an important part of the immune system. When the skin becomes weakened, problems often quickly manifest as flaking or itching.

Myth 3: Only horses with a winter coat get dandruff

Horses can develop flaky skin even in the summer—for example, due to insects, allergies, or fungal infections. So the season is certainly not the only factor.

Myth 4: Flakes go away on their own

Sometimes, yes—for example, after molting. But often the problem persists if the underlying cause isn't addressed. That's why it's important to observe carefully.

Myth 5: Skincare products are all the same

Not every ointment or shampoo is suitable for a horse's sensitive skin. Some products can even make skin problems worse.

What can you actually do?

If your horse has flaky skin, three things in particular can help:

• Regular care: Daily brushing stimulates blood circulation and removes loose flakes.

• Gentle products: Make sure that shampoos and creams are horse-friendly and do not contain harsh ingredients.

• Environmental factors: Dust, dry barn air, or wet bedding can cause additional skin irritation.

If the dandruff persists despite proper care, or if it gets worse, it’s a good idea to consult a veterinarian to determine the cause.

Doderm – gentle support for healthy skin

Doderm contains natural antibodies derived from milk that specifically neutralize harmful bacteria while supporting the skin microbiome. This strengthens the skin barrier, soothes irritation, and stimulates the healing process—gently, effectively, and without unnecessary additives.