How to Trim the Overlaid Bars on a Hoof

Every horse owner at one time or another has heard the saying, "No hoof, no horse." Providing proper hoof care ensures soundness and long-term usability of your horse. The ability to identify and treat various aspects of the hoof is a skill learned over time, but one which will serve you and your horse well. By being able to identify hoof anatomy as well as potential hoof problems you can head off major problems before they become disasters.

Things You'll Need

  • Hoof pick with brush on back
  • Sharp hoof knife
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Instructions

    • 1

      Secure a halter and lead rope on your horse and lead it to a quiet, safe area for work. Having a knowledgeable handler at the head of your horse is an added safety measure for both you and your horse.

    • 2

      Lift the hoof and use the hoof pick to clean away all material packed in the sole. Clean the collateral grooves alongside the frog. Use the brush on the back of the hoof pick to clear away small bits of dirt and sand, as these will dull the blade of your hoof knife quickly.

    • 3

      Examine and identify the bar material that can be safely removed. The bars will extend from the rear portion of the hoof, by the heel bulbs, alongside the frog and collateral grooves, towards the apex of (or pointed tip) of the frog. Overlaid bars will migrate out over the sole and around the apex of the frog.

    • 4

      Place the blade of your knife at the end of the bar nearest the apex of the frog. Keep the blade flat in order to avoid digging into and damaging the sole of the hoof.

    • 5

      Pull the knife towards the heel. The knife will slide under the overlaid bar material, removing small portions of it in one steady stroke.

    • 6

      Remove only small amounts of material at a time. By taking only what the foot is willing to give, you will prevent damage to the sole.

    • 7

      Place the knife blade on the opposite side of where you have cleared material, towards the heel. Again, keep the knife blade flat on the sole of the hoof.

    • 8

      Push carefully down towards the toe of the hoof. Repeat as necessary, removing only small amounts of bar material at a time.

    • 9

      Remove only enough bar tissue to bring the bars to the level of the existing sole. If you remove more material than that, you risk weakening the hoof structure. You will also lame the horse significantly.