Comprehensive Guide to Having Your Horse Shod

Many ridden horses in the UK are shod, but if you are new to horse ownership, understanding shoeing is crucial for your horse’s health and performance.

This comprehensive guide explains farriery basics, when shoeing is necessary, methods used, and how to maintain your horse's hoof health responsibly.

1. Should My Horse or Pony Be Shod?

If your horse regularly rides or walks on hard surfaces like tarmac or brick, shoeing is generally beneficial to protect the hooves from wear and soreness. Hooves evolved for soft terrain like grass, so constant hard-surface exposure can cause damage without shoes.

Occasional rides on hard surfaces or mostly soft terrain might mean shoes aren't essential, but regular trimming and professional advice from a farrier are still vital to ensure your horse’s wellbeing.

Consider finding a horse that suits your riding terrain and needs.

2. Understanding Farriery and Shoeing

Farriery is the art of trimming and balancing the horse’s hoof, then fitting appropriately sized horseshoes made typically from steel or aluminium.

The farrier carefully shapes the shoe to the hoof—never the other way around—and nails it in place. They then smooth and finish the shoe’s edges to prevent discomfort.

Shoes protect hooves from excessive wear, provide traction, and help prevent joint or muscle strain by promoting proper footfall.

3. Hot Shoeing vs. Cold Shoeing: What’s the Difference?

In the UK, hot shoeing is the most common method. It involves heating the shoe in a forge until red-hot, then shaping it directly on the horse’s hoof. This provides a precise fit and strong bond.

Cold shoeing bends the shoe without heating, limiting how closely it can conform to the hoof shape. Usually, it’s reserved for horses sensitive to heat, flame, or sounds of the forge.

4. When and Where to Have Your Horse Shod

Typically, horses need re-shoeing or hoof maintenance every 4 to 6 weeks, but horses working hard on tough terrain may require visits every 4 weeks. Regular farrier visits help prevent loose nails, ill-fitting shoes, and related hoof problems.

Farriers generally shoe horses on-site, so you’ll need to provide a flat, firm surface with adequate lighting and access for their van and equipment.

5. Working with Your Farrier: Communication and Care

Farriers undergo at least five years’ training and have expert knowledge of equine foot anatomy and health. They might collaborate with vets for remedial shoeing when needed.

Discuss your horse’s workload, terrain, health, and behaviour with your farrier openly. If your horse resists shoeing, informing your farrier helps them plan for a safe, efficient process.

Farriers can guide you on suitable shoe types, frequency, and detect early problems so you can keep your horse comfortable and sound.

Happy riding and responsible care help ensure your horse’s hooves stay healthy and strong!