How to Balance Horseshoe Nails

Balancing the placement of nails in a horseshoe greatly reduces the chance of your horse going lame or experiencing other difficulties with his hooves, such as hoof crack. Proper hoof trimming and shoe fitting is vital. This enables the horse to land its feet on the ground in a level fashion, making the horse more comfortable and helping his performance. Proper shoeing techniques help the limbs absorb shock equally.

Things You'll Need

  • Hammer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Position the nail placement so that it is even with the ground. Never position them uphill, downhill or in an uneven fashion.

    • 2

      Insert the nails approximately one third of the way up the hoof -- about three-quarters of an inch -- measuring from the ground surface.

    • 3

      Place the nails up to the widest part of the hoof, but never farther back.