Horseshoeing

Horseshoeing is the practice of fitting and shaping horseshoes to a horse's hooves to protect the hoof wall, support movement, and address limb or gait issues. It is performed by a farrier, a professional who combines skilled metalworking with hoof care and veterinary knowledge. Shoeing can be used to increase traction, correct balance, redistribute weight, or protect the hoof on hard or rocky surfaces.

Hoof care begins with trimming and balancing the hoof, followed by selecting an appropriate shoe and determining whether it should be nailed on or attached by adhesive. Shoes are made from steel, aluminum, or synthetic materials and may be plain, clipped, or feature extensions such as bar shoes, heart bars, or toe clips. Nails penetrate the hoof wall and are clinched to secure the shoe; glue-on and epoxy-bonded systems are alternatives for some horses.

Fitting typically occurs every four to eight weeks, depending on hoof growth, the horse's workload, and environment. Some horses go barefoot with regular trimming and specialist trims; others wear different fittings for lameness management or performance needs. Proper shoeing requires accurate diagnosis of hoof conformation and gait and careful monitoring for signs of discomfort.

Historically, horseshoes have been used since antiquity; modern horseshoeing combines metalworking with farriery and veterinary science. Welfare considerations emphasize appropriate fit and routine evaluation to prevent injury to the horse.