Cob Horse health issues
Cobs are known for being pretty robust, but can be prone to a few health issues. Here are the 10 most commonly claimed for health conditions by Cob owners*:
Laminitis
Laminitis is inflammation in their hooves that causes severe pain.
Pelvic limb issue
Issues affecting their hindquarters or hind legs
Osteoarthritis
(degenerative joint disease) Wear-and-tear on joints that leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced flexibility.
Thoracic limb issue
Problems affecting their front legs.
Osteoarthritis (hock)
Joint degeneration specifically in their hock (ankle joint).
Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS)
Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) is a disorder that can make horses prone to weight gain and laminitis.
Colic
Colic is abdominal pain (can range from mild to serious).
Equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS)
Painful ulcers along their stomach lining.
Lameness
A clinical sign of pain or abnormal movement that can come from joints, muscles, tendons, or hooves.
Sarcoid
A common type of skin growth or tumour in horses.
For more information, read our guide to the most common horse health conditions claimed on pet insurance.
Insure your Cob Horse with The UK's Most Trusted Pet Insurer*
*Based on Agria Pet Insurance's number 1 Trustpilot ranking in the category Pet Insurance, correct as of July 2026.
Our guide to a Cob Horse
The versatile Cob combines strength, kindness, and a steady nature, making them favourites for riders of all ages and abilities. Find out all about the breed here.
Cob Horse breed overview
- Weight: 360-600kg
- Height: 13.1 to 16 hands (135 to 163 cm)
- Colours: Common ones include piebald, skewbald, bay, black, grey
- Health issues: Laminitis, pelvic limb issues, osteoarthritis, colic
- Life expectancy: 25-30+ years
- Origin: British Isles
Cob Horse breed history
Technically, the Cob isn’t a single breed but a type of horse that developed across Britain and Ireland. Traditionally used as strong, dependable riding and driving horses, Cobs were valued by farmers, travellers, and tradespeople for their ability to pull heavy loads and carry riders.
Variations include the Traditional Gypsy Cob, Irish Cob, and Welsh Cob (aka “Welsh Section D”). Cobs can also be a mix of breeds. Today, whatever the type, Cobs are celebrated not just for their strength and stamina but for their calm, generous nature, making them one of the most popular types of horse in the UK.
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Cob Horse size & appearance
Height
They typically stand between 13 and 15 hands high (a hand = 4 inches), although some modern show "Maxi Cobs" can grow up to 16 hands.
Body
They have compact, muscular bodies with deep chests, strong short backs, broad powerful hindquarters and dense, sturdy hooves.
Weight
Their sturdy, muscular build makes them a strong and powerful type of horse, although weight can vary depending on their height and build.
Coat
Traditional Cobs often have feathering around the legs and full manes and tails. Coat colours vary widely, with piebald and skewbald patterns being particularly iconic.
Cob Horse temperament & behaviour
Cobs are famous for being kind, patient, and willing. Their steady nature makes them reliable partners for beginners, families, and nervous riders, but they usually still have enough energy to be fun for experienced riders too.
They’re intelligent, sociable horses that enjoy routine, turnout, and a working schedule that uses their strength and stamina. Though generally calm, they can become cheeky or stubborn if they’re bored or under-stimulated.
Cob Horse care, management & exercise
Like all horses, Cobs need care and management to stay healthy and happy. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Cob Horse diet & nutrition
Cobs are sturdy, easy-keeping horses that benefit from a carefully managed diet to maintain a healthy weight and overall wellbeing. They do best on plenty of good-quality hay, with forage making up the majority of their diet. A vitamin or mineral supplement can help ensure they receive all the nutrients they need. Here are a few handy feeding tips:
- 1
Feed them a forage-based diet
Good-quality hay and other forage should make up most of a Cob’s diet to support their health and digestive system. - 2
Add a vitamin or mineral supplement
A supplement can help provide any nutrients that may be missing from forage alone. - 3
Avoid weight gain
Cobs are often good doers, so it’s important to monitor their weight and adjust feeding accordingly. - 4
Keep grazing under control
If your Cob gains weight easily, limiting access to grazing can help prevent excess weight gain. - 5
Choose lower-calorie options and encourage exercise
Soaked hay, low-calorie feeds, and regular exercise can help maintain a healthy body condition.
Cob Horse grooming
Their thick manes, tails, and feathered legs are pretty easy to manage with routine care. Here are a few things to consider:
- Brushing: Removes dust and keeps the coat healthy.
- Feather care: Regular cleaning, checking for mites, and ensuring feathers stay dry.
- Mane/tail: Traditional Cobs often have long, thick hair needing detangling.
- Hoof care: Regular checks; Cobs often have strong, healthy hooves.
- Bathing: Useful in summer or when feathers need deep cleaning.
- Tack check: A good fit is especially important for broad-backed horses.
Cob Horse owner experience level
Cobs are generally suitable for all levels, from confident beginners to experienced riders.
Their forgiving nature makes them ideal for learning, while their strength and versatility also appeal to seasoned horse owners.
Why choose a Cob Horse?
Four things to consider when deciding if a Cob Horse is the right breed for you:
Steady temperament
Cobs are typically known for their calm, sensible nature, although every horse has its own individual personality.
Versatile and practical
Suitable for a range of activities including hacking, showing, family riding and driving, depending on their training and experience.
Weight and health management
Consider their weight history and any health conditions, such as laminitis or Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS), which may require ongoing management.
Conformation and training
Look at the horse's conformation, movement, age and training level, and consider arranging a pre-purchase veterinary examination.