Cold Back

[Helby]

Could well be that the saddles do not fit the horses and are cuasing them discomfort, especially if they are nippy and do not want you to put their girth on.
If the horses really are cold backed, they will probably dip their back when first mounted. It is cause for some concern. There is usually a reason for this like spinal, muscular or even kidney defects. They should be checked out, as more harm could be being done to them than good.

[Maria]

What a super site this is. Well done Mike for starting this up.

At the stables where I have been learning to ride a few of the horses are said to have a 'Cold Back'. When their sadles are put on them they can be a little nippy. One of the horses in particular does not like having his girth tightened and has even reared in the winter. What does the term 'Cold Back' mean. Surely it is not as it sounds and that the horse has a back that is cold??

Thanks in advance for any answers.