Does my horse needs shoes?

I try to keep my client’s horses as barefoot as possible. I have quite a few horses that train and compete well barefoot, so it is certainly possible, but they need to be managed properly.

If the horse is being ridden more than 3 or 4 times a week for an hour or more at a time, front shoes and trimming the hinds may help them be more comfortable. Most of my school horses are setup this way and are very reliable.

Horses can get sore in the hind hooves as well, but mostly, shoes are added for performance or therapeutic reasons. From a performance aspect, a lot of support can be gained from adding hinds shoes. Done with good timing, this can make the horse advance tremendously. The best timing is after they have been introduced to using their hind end and worked with some engagement through the paces. Then consider putting some hind shoes on and PRESTO! You may have a new horse. One with a solid engine.

Read my Shoeing the Sport Horse article.