Horse Weight Calculator
Estimate a horse's weight from two tape measurements.
Updated · How we check our maths
- Estimated weight
- 1,095 lb (497 kg)
- Daily forage at 1.5–2.5% of body weight
- 16.4 – 27.4 lb
- Typical accuracy
- ±3–10% for adult horses
- Note
- Not accurate for foals, ponies, drafts or pregnant mares — use a weighbridge where possible
Quick answer
Use the tape formula weight (lb) = heart girth² × body length ÷ 330 with measurements in inches (or girth² × length ÷ 11,880 for kg from centimetres). A horse with a 74 in girth and 66 in body length weighs about 1,095 lb.
What the Horse Weight Calculator does
Measure the heart girth and body length with a soft tape and enter them here. The formula is a well-known estimate for adult light-breed horses that is usually within about 3–10% of weighbridge weight — accurate enough for feed rations and tracking changes over time.
Measure the same way each time, with the horse standing square on level ground.
The formula
Weight (lb) = girth² × length ÷ 330 (inches); weight (kg) = girth² × length ÷ 11,880 (cm).
Worked example
Girth 180 cm, length 160 cm: 180² × 160 ÷ 11,880 = 436 kg.
How to use the Horse Weight Calculator
- Measure heart girth just behind the elbow.
- Measure body length from the point of shoulder to the point of buttock.
- Choose units and read the estimate.
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is a weight tape?
Typically within 3–10% for adult horses — useful for tracking, less so for exact dosing.
How much hay does a horse need per day?
About 1.5–2.5% of body weight in forage, adjusted for work and condition.
Does this work for ponies?
Ponies, drafts and foals need different formulas; this one is for adult light horses.
Results are estimates for planning and learning. Check important figures with a qualified professional. How we build and check our calculators.