Natural Ways to Strengthen Horse Hooves

Weak or crumbly hooves are a source of discomfort for the horse and frustration and expense for a horse's owner. Whether the horse is used for pleasure or competition, strong hooves are essential for equine comfort and well-being. Natural remedies for some unhealthy hooves are a safe and less expensive alternative to chemical strengtheners or specialty shoeing. With consistent care, treatment and regular visits from a professional farrier, your horse's hooves will be strong and able to withstand even the most rigorous terrain.

  1. Supplements and Herbs

    • Feeding your horse a supplement that contains biotin will strengthen the hooves from the inside out. Biotin is found in carrots, which your horse will enjoy eating as a treat or as part of his feeding regimen. Echinacea is a very popular herb to boost the immune system, but it also serves as a healing tool for a horse prone to abscesses or bruises from hooves that are weak and brittle. You may add up to a half cup of Echinacea leaf to your horse's feed daily for a period of 3 weeks.

    Topical Treatments

    • Aloe vera adds moisture to dry hooves.

      Mink oil and aloe vera gel are two natural ingredients that work hand-in-hand to achieve a stronger hoof. Mink oil protects the hoof and adds a waterproof covering, and aloe vera retains moisture essential for healthy growth. Lavender and rosemary improve circulation and stimulate hoof growth. Dilute lavender or rosemary essential oils with water, and brush onto the coronet band of the hoof. Place your horse's hoof in a bucket of lukewarm water before applying essential oils for several minutes to increase the absorption of topical oils and strengtheners. You can even walk your horse through wet grass to moisturize the hooves before applying a topical remedy.

    Barefoot Care

    • Have your horse's shoes pulled and allow his hoof to make contact with different types of terrain. This will strengthen the hoof over time. Making the transition from shod to unshod hooves takes time while increased blood flow rebuilds internal fibers in the hoof that were weakened by shoeing. Your horse's hooves may be slightly sore on hard ground or over rocky terrain. Use hoof boots for riding over difficult terrain for short periods of time until his soles harden.

    Environment

    • In ancient Greece, horses were turned out in grass pastures and rotated into smaller paddock areas with small pebbles to harden the sole and strengthen the hoof for battle. Consider changing the turnout area for your horse. If his turnout is soft and moist, try moving him to an area with firmer, smooth ground for several weeks. If his turnout area is tough and filled with rocks, move him to a softer area to encourage healthy hoof growth. Rotating the surface your horse treads upon will ensure he can adapt to different types of terrain.