Parts of a Horse's Hooves and Their Functions

hoof, and where to set in the nails for horseshoes.

The wall is similar in composition and function to our fingernails and is constantly growing. The wall of the hoof can be very thin, or very thick depending on the type of horse, its nutrition and environment. Wild horses wear down hoof growth naturally, but domestic horses require regular trimming by a farrier.

The color of the hoof is influenced by the color of the skin above it. If a horse has white markings directly above the hoof, the hoof wall may carry down the same pigmentation. Many people believe that hooves with black walls are stronger than hooves with white walls. This is not true.1

Hooves' Natural Protection

The very outside of the wall is protected by the periople. This layer protects the moisture within the hoof. The coronary band runs around the very top of the hoof. This is a blood-rich band from which the hoof grows, somewhat similar to the

 cuticle on our fingernail. Severe damage to this band can cause deformities of the hoof wall.

On the underside of the hoof is the sole. This is a concave, thick but flexible padding of hard tissue that protects the sensitive sole directly beneath the bones of 

the foot.

In the middle of the sole sits the V-shaped frog. The frog contacts the ground surface as the horse travels and helps the blood circulate in the foot. The cleft of the frog runs down the middle of the frog and aids in flexion and grip. The bars of the foot run on either side of the frog, and they provide stable suspension for the walls and frog as the horse’s foot impacts the ground.

Basic Care for Horses' Hooves

Domestic horses require daily foot care to stay healthy. It is important to clean dirt and manure from the underside of the hooves as well as remove any lodged rocks, sticks or even pine cones that can cause discomfort and bruising.

As you visually check your whole horse, look for any swelling or cuts around the foot. If your farrier recommends it, coat your horse’s hooves with a moisturizing dressing when grooming. If your horse has weak hoof walls consider trying one of the many feed supplements that claim to benefit hoof growth.

About every six weeks, a farrier should trim down growth, help correct any hoof problems and suggest proper care depending on your horse’s use and environment.