Keep a barefoot horse sound with regular balanced trimming, plenty of correct movement to condition the hoof, a good diet for strong horn, and hoof boots for protection on hard or stony ground.
Get the trimming right
Barefoot success depends on a skilled, regular trim that keeps the hoof balanced and encourages a strong, healthy shape. Work with a farrier or barefoot trimmer experienced in barefoot horses, and keep a consistent cycle so the feet never grow out of balance.
Condition the hooves with movement
Hooves toughen and adapt to the surfaces they work on. Regular movement over varied ground gradually conditions the feet, so build up work slowly rather than expecting a newly bare horse to cope with stony tracks straight away. Turnout and mileage build strong feet.
Protect when needed
Even a well-conditioned barefoot horse may need protection on hard, stony or long rides. Hoof boots give that protection without permanent shoes, and can be used just for riding while the horse goes bare the rest of the time.
Feed for strong horn
Healthy horn grows from good nutrition. A balanced diet with adequate protein and minerals such as biotin, zinc and copper supports strong feet, and a hoof conditioner helps brittle or cracked horn. Because hooves grow slowly, give any change months to show.
Manage moisture and be patient
Constant wet softens bare feet and dry ground can crack them, so manage footing and keep hooves clean and picked out. The transition from shoes to barefoot takes time and can include a footy phase, so be patient, use boots to keep the horse comfortable, and build soundness gradually.
