Hoofcare for horses — the basics for every owner

Daily: picking hooves

Before and after work, after turnout and at least once per day. Pick from heel to toe and watch for odours (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 visit

Don't wait longer than necessary. Overgrown hooves lead to imbalance, tendon strain and injuries elsewhere (e.g. back, shoulder).

Nutrition and environment

Good hoof quality starts in the digestive system. Biotin and zinc in the feed can help, but the most important thing is a solid foundation: plenty of roughage, low stress and regular movement.