A crack in your horse’s hoof is more than just a blemish; it’s a message. It’s the hoof’s way of telling you that something is out of balance, whether it’s in their diet, their environment, or their trimming schedule. Learning to read these signs is like becoming a detective for your horse’s health. By identifying the type of crack and understanding its potential cause, you can move beyond a temporary fix and address the root of the problem. This guide will teach you how to investigate the clues your horse’s hooves are giving you, helping you connect the dots and find the most effective horse hoof crack remedy for long-term soundness and health.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize consistent, professional care: Your farrier is your most important partner in preventing cracks. Sticking to a regular trimming schedule ensures proper hoof balance, which is the best defense against stress-related splits and fissures.
- Build strong hooves from the inside out: A balanced diet is the foundation of hoof health. Ensure your horse receives key nutrients like biotin, zinc, and copper to grow a resilient hoof wall that can withstand daily wear and environmental challenges.
- Know the difference between minor and serious cracks: While you can manage small, superficial cracks with daily cleaning, you must call a professional for any crack that causes lameness, bleeds, shows signs of infection, or starts at the coronary band.
Identifying Common Hoof Cracks
Noticing a crack in your horse’s hoof can be alarming, but don’t panic just yet. Not all cracks are created equal. Some are just superficial blemishes, while others can signal a deeper issue that needs attention. Learning to tell the difference is the first step in providing the right care and is a key part of your horse's overall health management. Think of it as the first step in your horse health and first aid assessment. Let's walk through the most common types of hoof cracks, so you can feel confident in spotting them and knowing what they mean for your horse.
Vertical Cracks
Vertical cracks are probably what first come to mind when you think of a hoof crack. These lines run up and down the hoof wall, parallel to the horn tubules. They can start from the ground up or begin at the coronary band (the hairline at the top of the hoof) and travel down. A shallow vertical crack might just be a cosmetic issue, but a deeper one can penetrate sensitive tissues, causing pain, instability, and lameness. It’s important to monitor these cracks closely. If you can slide a piece of paper into the crack or if your horse shows any soreness, it’s time to get your farrier involved to prevent it from getting worse.
Horizontal Cracks
Horizontal cracks, sometimes called "blowouts," run sideways across the hoof wall. Unlike vertical cracks, they are almost always the result of a past event. Usually, this means a direct injury to the coronary band or a hoof abscess that finally burst out through the hoof wall. The good news is that these cracks typically don't cause lameness themselves because they are moving down the hoof with its natural growth. As your horse's hoof grows, the crack will simply grow out with it. While they look dramatic, they are often less of a concern than other types of cracks. Just keep the area clean and watch for any signs of new infection as it grows down.
Quarter Cracks
Quarter cracks are vertical cracks located on the side, or "quarter," of the hoof. These are often considered more serious because this part of the hoof bears a lot of weight and flexes during movement. They frequently start at the coronary band and extend downward, sometimes all the way to the ground. Quarter cracks can be caused by poor hoof balance, conformation faults, or direct trauma. Because of their location, they are very likely to cause soreness and lameness. These are not a "wait and see" type of crack; they require immediate attention from your farrier and possibly your veterinarian to stabilize the hoof and prevent further damage.
Toe Cracks
As the name suggests, toe cracks appear on the front, central part of the hoof. They are most common on the front feet, which handle the majority of the horse's weight and propulsion. Often, a toe crack is a sign that the toe has become too long, creating excess leverage that stresses the front of the hoof wall. This can happen if the time between farrier visits is too long or if the horse has a conformation that predisposes them to a long toe. While some toe cracks are superficial, deep ones can lead to soreness. Proper and regular trimming is the best way to prevent them from forming in the first place.
Heel Cracks
Heel cracks are found at the back of the hoof, on one or both heels. These can be caused by a few different issues. Sometimes, it’s due to the hoof being too dry and brittle, causing the heel to contract and then crack under pressure. Other times, it can be from improperly fitting shoes that put uneven pressure on the heels. A horse that overreaches, meaning its hind foot strikes the heel of its front foot, can also cause this type of trauma. Like other cracks, they can range from superficial to deep and painful, so it’s important to identify the underlying cause with your farrier to resolve the issue.
What Causes Hoof Cracks?
Seeing a crack in your horse’s hoof can be alarming, but it’s often the hoof’s way of telling you something is off. These fissures don’t just appear out of nowhere. They are usually the result of underlying stress, and figuring out the source is the first step toward healthy, resilient hooves. The causes can be surprisingly varied, ranging from the care your horse receives from a farrier to the nutrients in their feed bucket and the ground they walk on every day.
Understanding what causes hoof cracks helps you move from simply reacting to them to proactively preventing them. Think of it as detective work. By looking at your horse’s routine, environment, and diet, you can pinpoint the stress factors that are compromising their hoof integrity. Whether it’s an imbalance that needs correcting, a nutritional gap that needs filling, or an environmental challenge that needs managing, identifying the root cause is key. Below, we’ll walk through the most common culprits behind hoof cracks so you can keep your horse’s hooves in top condition.
Improper Trimming or Shoeing
One of the most frequent causes of hoof cracks is an unbalanced hoof. A healthy hoof distributes weight evenly with every step, but if it’s not balanced from side to side or front to back, certain areas of the hoof wall will take on excessive stress. This pressure can easily lead to cracks.
This is where your farrier comes in. Improper trimming, or waiting too long between appointments, is a primary contributor to hoof imbalance. A skilled farrier will not only trim the hoof to the correct length and angle but also ensure it remains balanced. A regular schedule is crucial because as the hoof grows, its balance can shift, creating new pressure points. Sticking to a consistent trimming cycle is one of the best things you can do to prevent these stress-induced cracks from forming.
Nutritional Gaps
Strong, healthy hooves are built from the inside out. If your horse’s diet is missing key nutrients, their body won’t have the building blocks it needs to grow a resilient hoof wall. A poor diet can result in weak, brittle hooves that are much more susceptible to chipping and cracking under normal daily wear and tear.
Biotin is probably the most well-known nutrient for hoof health, but it’s not the only one. Zinc, copper, and certain amino acids also play vital roles in forming strong hoof structures. If you suspect nutrition might be the issue, start by evaluating your horse’s core diet of forage and feed. Sometimes, adding a quality hoof supplement can provide the targeted support needed to fill any nutritional gaps and encourage stronger growth.
Extreme Weather Conditions
The environment plays a huge role in hoof health, especially when it comes to moisture levels. Constant, rapid shifts between very wet and very dry conditions are a classic recipe for hoof cracks. When a horse stands in mud or a wet pasture, their hooves absorb moisture and expand. Later, when they are in a dry stall or arena, that moisture evaporates and the hoof contracts.
This cycle of expanding and contracting puts a tremendous amount of strain on the hoof wall, much like a piece of wood that swells and shrinks until it splits. This is why you might notice more cracks appearing during seasons with heavy rain followed by dry spells. Using hoof conditioners can help create a moisture barrier to protect the hoof from these dramatic environmental swings.
Trauma or Injury
Sometimes, a crack is simply the result of a direct physical injury to the hoof. A single, hard impact, like stepping on a sharp rock or getting kicked by another horse, can be enough to cause a fracture in the hoof wall. Repetitive trauma can also be a factor. For example, a horse that habitually kicks its stall door or paws at a fence is repeatedly stressing the same area of the hoof, which can eventually lead to a crack.
Even the ground your horse works on can contribute to trauma-induced cracks if it’s too hard or uneven. While some accidents are unavoidable, you can minimize the risk by ensuring your horse’s environment is as safe as possible and addressing any behavioral habits that put their hooves in harm’s way.
How to Spot a Hoof Crack
Catching hoof cracks early is one of the best ways to keep your horse sound, comfortable, and ready for your next ride. A problem that starts small can quickly become a major issue if it’s ignored. By making a quick hoof inspection part of your daily grooming routine, you can spot trouble before it sidelines your horse. It’s all about knowing what to look for. Pay attention to the hoof wall itself, how your horse is moving, and any signs of heat or sensitivity. These simple checks can make all the difference in your horse's long-term hoof health.
Look for Changes in the Hoof Wall
Hoof cracks are essentially breaks in the hoof wall. They can range from tiny, superficial lines that are purely cosmetic to deep fissures that threaten the hoof's structural integrity. The first step in spotting them is getting to know your horse’s feet. When you pick out their hooves each day, run your hand over the entire hoof wall. Feel for any new lines, splits, or separated areas that weren’t there yesterday. Even a small, shallow crack can allow dirt and bacteria to get inside, so it’s important to monitor any changes you find, no matter how minor they seem.
Watch for Lameness or Hesitation
Sometimes, the first sign of a painful hoof crack isn’t on the hoof itself, but in the way your horse moves. If your horse suddenly seems "off" or is reluctant to walk, it could be due to hoof pain. Watch them travel on a firm, level surface. Do you notice a head bob at the walk or trot? Are they taking short, choppy steps or trying to avoid putting weight on a particular foot? According to hoof care experts, you should always call your vet or farrier if your horse is limping or if you see a crack near the coronary band.
Check for Heat, Pain, or Sensitivity
A deep or infected crack will often cause inflammation, which you can feel as heat. As you handle your horse’s feet, place the back of your hand against the hoof wall and coronary band. Compare the temperature to your horse's other feet; a noticeable difference in warmth is a red flag. You can also gently press on the hoof wall on either side of the crack. If your horse flinches or pulls their foot away, it’s a clear signal of pain. These signs indicate a serious crack that needs professional attention. Keeping a well-stocked horse health and first aid kit allows you to clean and protect the area while you wait for your vet.
Inspect for Bleeding or Discharge
Any bleeding or pus-like discharge coming from a hoof crack is a definite sign of trouble. This means the crack has gone through the hard outer wall and has reached the sensitive, living tissues inside. An opening this deep is a direct pathway for bacteria, putting your horse at high risk for a painful infection or abscess. This is not a "wait and see" situation. The hoof needs to be professionally evaluated so it can be thoroughly cleaned and treated to prevent infection and promote proper healing from the inside out.
How to Treat Minor Hoof Cracks at Home
Spotting a crack on your horse’s hoof can be alarming, but don’t panic. For small, superficial cracks that aren’t causing lameness or showing signs of infection, you can often provide supportive care at home to prevent them from getting worse. Think of it as first aid for hooves. These steps are designed to support hoof health and are a great addition to your regular care routine. However, always remember that for deep, bleeding, or painful cracks, your first call should be to your farrier or veterinarian.
Clean the Hoof Daily
Your hoof pick is your best friend. Daily cleaning is the most important and simplest thing you can do to manage a minor hoof crack. When you pick out your horse's hooves every day, you do more than just remove rocks and mud. You get a clear look at the hoof wall and sole, allowing you to catch small issues before they escalate. For a minor crack, cleaning out any packed-in debris is essential to prevent it from being forced deeper into the hoof wall. Making this a part of your daily horse grooming routine helps keep the area clean and reduces the risk of bacteria setting up shop. Use a stiff brush after picking to whisk away any remaining dirt for a thorough inspection.
Apply Hoof Conditioners and Topicals
When you see a dry crack, your first instinct might be to reach for hoof oil. While it gives a great shine, it may not be the solution you need. Some experienced horse owners find that for brittle, cracking hooves, a hoof hardener can be more effective at strengthening the hoof wall structure. The goal is to support the hoof’s integrity from the outside in. Instead of just coating the surface, look for a quality hoof conditioner or balm that is formulated to penetrate the hoof wall and provide nourishment. Choosing the right topical depends on your horse's specific needs and environment, so don't be afraid to ask your farrier for a recommendation.
Manage Moisture with Soaks and Proper Care
Hoof health is all about balance, and that’s especially true when it comes to moisture. Hooves that are too dry can become brittle and crack, while hooves that are too wet can become soft and weak. During dry spells, you can help your horse’s hooves stay flexible. As experts at FormaHoof recommend, try wetting the hooves with a hose for a few minutes and then applying a hoof balm or conditioner. This simple step helps lock in much-needed moisture. Conversely, if you live in a wet climate, ensure your horse has a dry area to stand, like a well-drained paddock or a clean, dry stall, to prevent their hooves from becoming waterlogged.
Address Hoof Imbalance Early
Often, the root cause of a hoof crack isn’t what happens to the hoof from the outside, but the forces acting on it from within. According to research from Mad Barn, a leading cause of hoof cracks is an unbalanced hoof. When a hoof isn't balanced correctly from side to side or front to back, it creates uneven pressure on the hoof wall with every step. Over time, this stress can cause the hoof wall to split. While you can’t correct hoof balance yourself, recognizing its importance is key. This is where a consistent schedule with a skilled farrier is non-negotiable. Regular, professional trims are the best way to maintain proper hoof balance and prevent these stress cracks from ever forming.
When to Call Your Farrier or Vet
While you can manage minor surface cracks at home, it’s crucial to know when to pick up the phone. Some hoof cracks are signs of deeper issues that require an expert eye. Trust your gut; if a crack looks serious or your horse seems uncomfortable, a call to your farrier or veterinarian is never the wrong choice. They are your partners in keeping your horse sound and healthy.
Signs a Crack Needs Professional Care
It's time to call a professional if you notice lameness, even if it's subtle. Any crack that is deep, bleeding, or oozing discharge needs immediate attention. A critical red flag is a crack that reaches the coronary band, the sensitive area at the top of the hoof where growth begins. Damage here can affect the hoof for life. Your vet or farrier can assess the severity and determine the best course of action, ensuring you have the right horse health and first aid supplies on hand for aftercare.
Professional Patching and Repair Techniques
For a significant crack, your farrier’s goal is to stabilize the hoof wall to allow it to grow out cleanly. They may need to clean and open the crack to remove any debris. To hold the hoof together, they might use specialized techniques like wiring or lacing the two sides of the crack together. Afterward, they often apply a strong acrylic or fiberglass patch over the area. This creates a rigid bridge that prevents the crack from shifting or worsening as the hoof grows, much like putting a cast on a broken bone.
Using Specialized Shoeing to Stabilize Cracks
Along with patching, your farrier may recommend therapeutic shoeing to support the hoof during healing. A common solution is a bar shoe, which has an extra piece of metal across the heel to provide more stability and distribute pressure more evenly across the hoof. They might also add a "rolled toe" or "rocker toe" to the shoe. This small modification helps the horse’s foot break over more easily when they walk, reducing the stress and leverage on the damaged hoof wall and giving the crack a better chance to heal.
How to Handle Infected Cracks
An infected crack is a veterinary emergency. Signs of infection include a foul odor, dark discharge or pus, significant heat in the hoof, and severe lameness. Do not try to treat this at home. Your veterinarian will need to thoroughly clean the area, which often involves opening the crack to allow it to drain completely. This process, called debridement, removes infected tissue and debris. Your horse will likely need a course of antibiotics and a careful aftercare plan to ensure the infection clears up and the hoof can heal properly.
Feeding for Stronger Hooves
Just like the old saying goes, "you are what you eat," and the same is true for your horse's hooves. Strong, healthy hooves are built from the inside out, making a balanced diet your first and most powerful tool for preventing cracks. While genetics and environment certainly play a part, nutrition is the one area where you have complete control. Providing the right building blocks is essential for growing a resilient hoof wall that can stand up to concussion, moisture changes, and daily wear. Before you reach for a topical solution, it’s worth taking a close look at what’s in your horse’s feed bucket. A diet rich in specific vitamins and minerals is the foundation for sound, crack-free hooves.
The Importance of Biotin
If you’ve ever looked into hoof health, you’ve probably heard about biotin. This B-vitamin plays a vital role in cell growth and is essential for producing keratin, the very protein that makes up the hoof wall. Think of it as one of the most important building blocks for strong, resilient hooves. Research suggests that feeding about 20 milligrams of biotin per day can significantly improve hoof growth and hardness over time. While many feeds contain some biotin, it’s often not enough to correct significant hoof issues. Adding a dedicated source can make a world of difference for horses with brittle, cracking feet, but remember that patience is key; it takes months for new, stronger hoof to grow down from the coronary band.
Key Minerals: Zinc, Copper, and Methionine
Biotin doesn't work in a vacuum. It needs a team of key minerals and amino acids to do its job effectively. Zinc, copper, and methionine are three of the most critical players. Zinc is essential for proper keratinization, the process that hardens the hoof wall. Copper helps form the strong, flexible bonds that give the hoof its structural integrity and elasticity. Methionine, an essential amino acid, provides the sulfur needed to create strong hoof protein. For these nutrients to be effective, they must be present in the right balance, as they work together to build a hoof that can withstand daily wear and tear.
Why Quality Forage is the Foundation
You can’t supplement your way out of a poor diet. The absolute cornerstone of any feeding program, especially one focused on hoof health, is high-quality forage. Whether it’s pasture or hay, forage should make up the bulk of your horse’s diet, providing essential fiber, energy, and a baseline of nutrients. A healthy digestive system, fueled by plenty of good forage, is better at absorbing all the key vitamins and minerals needed for hoof growth. If you’re dealing with persistent hoof problems, consider getting your hay analyzed to see if there are any major nutritional gaps. This simple step can provide valuable insights and help you tailor your horse’s diet more precisely.
Choosing the Right Hoof Supplement
If your horse is on a balanced diet with quality forage but still struggles with weak, cracking hooves, a targeted hoof supplement can be a fantastic tool. When comparing products, look for one that provides the key ingredients we’ve discussed: biotin, zinc, copper, and methionine. Check the label to ensure you’re getting therapeutic levels, especially the recommended 20 milligrams of biotin. A comprehensive formula will address hoof health from multiple angles. You can find a range of excellent options in our horse health essentials collection to support strong, healthy hoof growth from the inside out.
How Environment Impacts Hoof Health
A horse’s environment plays a massive role in the condition of their hooves. While we often focus on nutrition and farrier schedules, the ground they walk on and the cleanliness of their living space are just as critical. Paying close attention to your horse's surroundings is one of the most effective ways you can prevent cracks from forming in the first place. It’s all about creating a consistent, supportive environment that promotes strong, resilient hooves year-round. From the moisture levels in your pasture to the footing in the arena, every surface your horse encounters has an impact. By managing these factors, you can build a solid foundation for hoof health and reduce the risk of cracks, chips, and other common issues.
Managing Wet vs. Dry Ground
Extreme weather is tough on hooves. Constant exposure to wet, muddy pastures can over-saturate the hoof, softening the horn and making it pliable and weak. This is when you might see cracks appear, along with other moisture-related problems like thrush. On the flip side, very dry, arid conditions can strip the hoof of its natural moisture, leaving it brittle and prone to chipping. The most challenging situation is often the rapid shift between wet and dry. This cycle of expanding and contracting can weaken the hoof’s structure over time. To help, try to provide a dry area for your horse to stand in during wet seasons. You can also use hoof care products to either seal out excess moisture or add hydration in dry climates.
The Role of Footing, Turnout, and Exercise
Regular movement is essential for healthy hooves, as it stimulates blood flow and encourages strong growth. However, the surface your horse moves on matters. Consistently working on hard, concussive ground can lead to bruising and stress cracks, while soft, deep footing can strain soft tissues and fail to provide enough support. The ideal turnout offers a variety of firm but forgiving surfaces. Even with perfect footing, nothing replaces the need for consistent, professional trimming. A skilled farrier will ensure your horse’s hooves are balanced to handle the demands of their workload and environment. Whether your horse is shod or barefoot, sticking to a regular schedule, typically every 4 to 8 weeks, is non-negotiable for preventing imbalances that can lead to cracks.
Maintaining a Clean Stall
A clean stall is about more than just appearances; it’s a cornerstone of hoof health. When a horse stands for hours in a stall soiled with manure and urine, the ammonia and moisture create a toxic environment for their feet. This can quickly break down the protective structures of the hoof, softening the sole and frog and making the entire hoof capsule vulnerable to bacterial infections and cracks. Make it a habit to muck out stalls daily and provide fresh, dry bedding. Good drainage is also key to preventing moisture from pooling. This simple chore drastically reduces your horse’s exposure to harmful bacteria. Pair this with daily hoof picking using tools from our horse grooming collection to remove any packed-in debris and you’ll be taking a major step toward keeping hooves hard and healthy.
How to Prevent Hoof Cracks for Good
Prevention is always better than a cure, especially when it comes to your horse’s hooves. While treating cracks is important, establishing a proactive care routine can stop most of them from ever forming. By focusing on a few key areas of management, you can build strong, resilient hooves that are less prone to chipping, splitting, and cracking. It’s about creating a supportive foundation through consistent professional care, daily attention, and an awareness of how your horse’s environment affects their feet. These habits not only save you the stress of dealing with a serious hoof issue but also contribute to your horse's overall comfort and soundness for years to come. A little bit of foresight goes a long way in keeping your horse happy, healthy, and ready for your next ride.
Stick to a Regular Farrier Schedule
Your farrier is your number one partner in hoof health, so keeping a consistent schedule is essential. Regular trims maintain proper hoof balance, which distributes weight evenly and prevents undue stress on any one part of the hoof wall. For shod horses, this typically means a visit every 4 to 6 weeks. Barefoot horses might go a bit longer, usually between 4 and 10 weeks. Remember, these are just guidelines. Your horse’s individual needs, their workload, and even the season will influence the perfect schedule. A skilled farrier will help you find that sweet spot, ensuring your horse’s feet are always in the best possible shape to avoid cracks.
Build Daily Hoof Care Habits
A few minutes each day can make a world of difference. Making hoof picking a non-negotiable part of your daily horse grooming routine is the best way to stay ahead of problems. When you pick out your horse’s feet, you’re not just clearing out mud, rocks, and manure that can trap harmful moisture and bacteria. You’re also giving yourself a chance to do a quick inspection. Look over the hoof wall, sole, and frog. Catching a small sand crack or a bit of separation early gives you the chance to address it before it becomes a major, painful problem that sidelines your horse.
Monitor for Seasonal Changes
Hooves are incredibly dynamic and respond directly to their environment, especially moisture levels. The most challenging time for hoof integrity is often during seasonal transitions, like when wet, muddy spring pastures give way to hard, dry summer ground. This constant cycle of swelling (in the wet) and contracting (in the dry) can weaken the hoof wall and lead to cracks. During rainy seasons, try to give your horse a dry place to stand and consider a hoof sealant. In dry spells, a moisturizing hoof dressing can help maintain flexibility. Paying attention to the weather and adjusting your horse health routine accordingly is a simple way to support hoof strength.
Ensure Proper Shoe Fit and Manage Workload
If your horse wears shoes, the fit is everything. A shoe that is too small, applied incorrectly, or left on for too long can put immense pressure on the hoof wall, leading directly to cracks. It’s crucial that your farrier balances the hoof correctly before applying the shoe to ensure it provides support, not stress. Beyond shoeing, think about your horse’s job. Consistent work on hard or rocky ground can cause a lot of concussion, which can contribute to cracking over time. Whenever possible, vary the footing you ride on and make sure your horse has adequate rest to allow their hooves to recover and repair naturally.
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Frequently Asked Questions
My horse has a small hoof crack but isn't lame. Do I still need to call my farrier? Not necessarily for an emergency visit, but you should definitely point it out during your farrier's next scheduled appointment. A crack without lameness can seem minor, but it can be a sign of an underlying imbalance in the hoof that needs correcting. It also creates a pathway for dirt and bacteria to enter the hoof wall. Keep the area clean and dry, and monitor it daily for any changes in size or depth. If it gets worse or your horse shows any sensitivity, then it's time to make that call sooner.
How long does it take for a hoof crack to grow out? Patience is key when dealing with hoof growth. A horse's hoof typically grows from the coronary band down at a rate of about a quarter to a half-inch per month. The total time it takes for a crack to disappear depends entirely on its location and severity. A small crack near the bottom of the hoof might be gone after one or two trims, but a crack that starts at the very top could take a full year to grow out completely.
Can I still ride my horse if they have a hoof crack? This really depends on the crack. If it's a very shallow, superficial crack that isn't causing any pain or sensitivity, light work might be okay. However, if the crack is deep, located in a high-stress area like the quarter, or if your horse shows any sign of soreness, you should not ride them. The concussion from riding can easily make the crack worse and cause significant pain. This is a perfect question to ask your farrier or vet, as they can give you the safest answer based on your horse's specific situation.
My horse gets a good diet and a hoof supplement, but still gets cracks. What am I missing? Nutrition is a huge piece of the puzzle, but it's not the only one. If you're confident in your horse's diet, the next places to look are their environment and their trimming schedule. Hooves that constantly shift between wet and dry conditions are very prone to cracking. Likewise, a hoof that is even slightly out of balance will develop stress points that can lead to cracks. Working with your farrier to ensure your horse is on a consistent, appropriate trim cycle is just as important as what you put in their feed bucket.
What is the single most important thing I can do to prevent hoof cracks? If I had to pick just one thing, it would be creating consistent, daily habits. The most powerful preventative habit is picking your horse's hooves every single day. This simple five-minute task does more than just remove debris; it forces you to look at and handle your horse's feet, so you'll be the first to notice a tiny crack or any change. This daily check-in, combined with a strict, regular schedule with a qualified farrier, forms the foundation of excellent hoof health and will stop most cracks before they can even start. You can find all the essential tools for this in our horse grooming collection.
