Brushes

The brushes you use should be of good quality, and should be used correctly.
A dandy brush is a tough brush used to remove dried mud from the body. Be very gentle with it on the legs, and never use it on the face.
A body brush is a softer brush used on the body to remove dust and dirt.
A rubber curry comb is a rubber brush with rubber pieces sticking out of a rubber base; this is used in circular motions to massage the horse and to loosen up dirt and mud.
A metal curry comb is used on the brushes, to clean them. NEVER USE ON THE HORSE.
A hoof pick is used on the hooves, to remove the stones and mud. This is very essential, as a horse's hooves not only need to be cleaned out to be rid of stones that could cause them to go lame, but they also need to be cleaned out to allow air to circulate around the frog and clefts.
A face brush is used on the face.
A soft body brush is a very soft brush that is the size of a body brush, but can be used anywhere.
A mane & tail comb are used to brush out the mane & tail.
Sponges are used for cleaning the nose, eyes, and dock area.

To brush a horse:

Use the dandy brush to remove the dried mud. Then, going in a small circular motion, brush with the rubber curry comb. Use everywhere, except for the face. Be very gentle on the legs. Use the body brush to smooth down the hair and to be rid of dust and dirt particles. Use the soft body brush in the same areas. Brush the face with the face brush, then with the soft body brush. Brush the mane and tail with the body brush, to help loosen the tangles, then brush them with the mane & tail comb. Do not forget the forelock. Large tangles will need to be loosened with your fingers. Now use the hoof pick. Starting from the frog and going downwards, remove all the dirt and stones from the horse's hoof. In order to clean a hoof, you must face your horse's hindquarters, run your hand down the leg, and pick it up, squeezing at the front of the fetlock and the tendon and pulling up at the same time. Hold the hoof with one hand, and never squat--if the horse makes a sudden move while you are squatting, you may not be able to get away in time. If the horse fights to have his hoof pick up, fight him back. For every ounce of effort he gives, give the same amount back. Don't let him get away with that. Lastly, but not least, use a damp sponge to clean out the corners of the eyes and the nostrils, and use a separate sponge to clean the dock area.
Brushing builds a relationship, because it is much like wild horses do when grooming one another. Do not be surprised if your horse turns his head and starts nibbling you--he is grooming you, too!!!