The foot of the horse is a very unique structure that undergoes a tremendous amount of strain and stress. The foot is the foundation of the horse and a structure is only as strong and stable as its foundation. Hence, the old adage “No Foot, No Horse.” The foot is the most common area of forelimb lameness because of the amount of stress to which the equine foot is exposed. Thus it is necessary to have knowledge of the foot, clinical conditions associated with the foot and ways to avoid and treat the more common foot problems.

Common factors influencing the quality of the hoof are genetics, environment, farriery and nutrition. The horse’s hoof is made up of or affected by all components of the equine diet, including protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Since there is no one nutritional panacea for hoof health, balancing these components (based on the horse’s age and lifestyle) is important for the overall health of the horse and its hooves.

It is also important to review the research that has been conducted on how different nutrients may affect the growth of the hoof. And, to understand how nutrition can help or hinder the hoof, it is essential to understand how the horse digests and absorbs different components of its diet.

There may be no other routine procedure performed on a horse that has more influence on soundness than hoof preparation and shoeing. The goal should be to promote a healthy, functional foot, restore and maintain biomechanical efficiency, and prevent lameness. Each horse should be evaluated individually, the optimal trimming and shoeing approach for that horse being dependent on the horse's size, hoof and limb conformation, movement patterns, and athletic use. While methods may vary, the basic objectives when trimming and shoeing are to facilitate breakover, protect the sole, and provide adequate heel support.

A general overview of the parts of the horses hoof.

As the old saying goes, "no hoof, no horse". Knowledge of the parts of the horses hoof and reasonable management of the hoof will help to ensure that your horse will stay productive.