10/04/2026
🐴 Important Considerations for Maintaining a Horse Barefoot
Keeping a horse barefoot should be an intentional hoof-care decision—not simply the absence of shoes. Every horse must be evaluated as an individual.
Important factors include:
• Hoof quality and conformation
• Sole depth and sensitivity
• Workload and discipline
• Terrain and living conditions
• Diet and metabolic health
• Regular, properly timed trimming
• The amount of wear compared with hoof growth
Some horses thrive barefoot, while others require additional protection or support to remain comfortable and perform their job. Hoof boots, composite shoes, or traditional shoes may become necessary if wear exceeds growth or the horse develops soreness.
The goal should never be “barefoot at all costs.” The goal is a comfortable, sound horse with a hoof-care plan that supports its individual needs.
Soundness Starts from the Ground Up.
