Hoof Care
Horse hoof care — the basics for every owner
Picking hooves daily, a dry stable, regular farrier visits and the right nutrition. With these basics you can prevent 80% of hoof problems.
Published: 3/10/2026
EquiSight Editorial
Redactie · EquiSight · SaFleu Equestrian Centre BV
Daily: picking out
Before and after work, after turnout and at least once a day. Pick from heel to toe and watch for bad smells (thrush) or foreign objects.
Weekly: visual check
- Cracks in the hoof wall
- Clean, well-defined white line
- Symmetrical hooves
- Smooth, closed sole
- No heat or pulsing digital arteries
Every 6–8 weeks: farrier
Don't wait longer than necessary. Hooves that are too long lead to imbalance, tendon strain and injuries elsewhere (e.g. back, shoulder).
Nutrition and environment
Good hoof quality starts in the digestive tract. Biotin and zinc in the diet can help, but the most important thing is a healthy foundation: sufficient roughage, low stress and regular exercise.