Horse owners need to know basic stats for proper care for their horse or pony. Knowing your horse's height and weight will assist in assessing nutrient needs, equipment and horsewear sizing and correct fit for the rider.

Horses and ponies are measured from the ground to the top of their withers. In the United States, horses are measured in "hands," which equals four inches. Anything measuring 14.2 hands (58 inches) and under is considered a pony. 

Using a measuring stick, such as Tough1's SureMeasure, here’s how you can calculate your horse/pony’s height:

1. Find a level location to set up your horse/pony (preferably a concrete pad like a wash rack or in the barn aisle).
2. Utilize a helper to hold the horse. Allow the horse to see the SureMeasure stick so he's not spooked.
3. Stand the horse/pony square (legs straight and forming a rectangle) so he’s balanced.
4. Moving slowly, place the SureMeasure square on the ground at the shoulder, as close to the horse's side as possible. Extend the arm over the withers, keeping the bottom of the SureMeasure flat on the ground. Slowly lower the arm until it touches the top of the withers.
5. Use the leveling device to ensure the stick is perfectly level: the bubble should be between the two lines in the middle of the window.
6. Note where the mark is for the height. The Tough1 SureMeasure offers measurements in centimeters on one side and inches on the other.

Once you have the final measurement, you can divide the total inches by four to convert to hands. For example, 60 inches equals 15 hands, 58 inches is 14.2 hands, 72 inches is 18 hands, etc.

Height Classifications
There are four sizing categories for horses/ponies:

                  38 inches & under – Miniature Horses

                  38 – 56 inches – Ponies

                  57 – 63 inches – Horses

                  64 inches & above – Draft Horses