Protection:
* Hard ground: Horseshoes protect the hooves from wear and tear on hard surfaces like pavement, gravel, and rocky trails. Without shoes, their hooves would wear down too quickly.
* Injuries: Horseshoes can help prevent injuries like punctures or bruising from sharp objects.
* Medical conditions: Horses with certain hoof conditions, like laminitis or abscesses, might need shoes to help manage their condition.
Performance:
* Grip: Shoes with studs or other traction devices can provide better grip on slippery surfaces like mud or ice. This is important for athletic horses, especially in competition.
* Balance: Some horses might need shoes to help correct imbalances or gait problems.
* Support: Shoes can provide additional support to the hoof, which can be helpful for horses with weak hooves or certain hoof deformities.
However, not all horses need shoes.
* Horses living on soft ground: Horses that live in natural environments with soft ground, like fields and forests, don't typically need shoes.
* Horses with healthy hooves: Horses with healthy hooves that are naturally strong and wear down at a good rate might not need shoes.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to shoe a horse is best made by a veterinarian or farrier in consultation with the horse's owner. They will take into account the horse's individual needs, lifestyle, and environment.