How to Paint Hooves

Many people paint their horses' hooves for showing or entering parades as it gives the horse a more professional-looking turn out. Painting your horses' hooves does not have to be stressful even if you are painting the hooves on a white horse. With some simple tips, you can have your horses' hooves painted in no time and have a professional-looking finish that will not chip or wear off while you are showing or participating in a parade.

Things You'll Need

  • Black hoof polish
  • 120 grit sanding paper or block
  • Towel
  • Large-tipped black felt marker
  • Hair spray
  • Bucket of soapy water
  • Rubber mat (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the horse's hooves using a towel and a bucket of soapy water.

    • 2

      Sand each hoof (while still wet) with 120 grit sanding paper or sanding block. Wipe the dust off with a damp towel.

    • 3

      Apply the black marker at the top of each hoof, following the contour of each hoof. This will keep you from having to paint the black hoof polish all the way to the top where it may get mixed in the horse's hair.

    • 4

      Use the hoof polish applicator to apply the hoof polish to the first hoof. Most hoof paint or polish comes with a sponge-brush applicator; press the sponge onto the hoof to release the polish onto the hoof and use broad strokes to cover the hoof completely. Do not paint back over areas already painted or it will smudge.

    • 5

      Spray the painted hoof with hair spray to speed the drying time.

    • 6

      Continue to paint each hoof, and immediately spray with hair spray, until all four hooves are painted.