how often should you trim a horses hooves?

Answer 1

I really depends on how healthy and active the horse is. A young, healthy horses hooves will grow much faster than an older or an unhealthy horse. All of my horses get their hooves done every 7 weeks- I have 83 head but only 10 of them are shod. Most people have a time line of every 6-8 weeks though. Depending on if your horse needs a different shod or throws a shoe or another emergency like that- you may have the farrier out much sooner.

Answer 2

All depends on the horse. 6 - 8 weeks is the usual time span between a routine trim or being reshod. I have 3 broodmares that haven't had their feet don't in over 2 years and they look fantastic. On the other hand I have a shetland cross pony that needs trimming just about every month. But, as long as the hooves are staying symmetrical and there are no cracks appearing the average horse can go a good 3 months and stay sound. Also horses with navicular or have foundered need to be trimmed or just examined more often.

Answer 3

It really depends on the horse. If your horse has shoes, I usually recomend 6 weeks to have the shoes replaced and hoof trimed. If your horse is barefoot then it can vary. I am trying to get all of my horses barefoot so during the transition I'm having them trimed every 4-6 weeks, however after the hoof has regrown they will be on a 8-10 week schedule. It all depends on the horse, some horses hooves grow faster than others and will require more frequent triming. Also if the horse is being exercised more then the hoof growth will be affected. Then there are horses like miniatures that are only trimmed about 2-3 times a year. So I would check with your vet and farrier to see what is best for your horses.

Answer 4

Horses with shoes will need to be trimmed every 6 to 8 weeks. Barefoot horse that are active will wear their own feet down some and may be able to go as long as 12 weeks between trims. Of course if they just stand around, their hooves won't get worn down and they will need to be trimmed every 6 to 8 weeks too.

Answer 5

Usually 6-8 weeks through summer and 8-10 in winter but some certainly need more often. I had a few clients who won't set an appointment until their horse is lame so every 9-12 months.

Answer 6

every six weeks. and the horse should be the judge as to weather or not it needs shoes. Im a certified equine therapist and see so many horses improperly shod and even horses who do not need shoes. I agree that performance horses need them but back yard horses being ridden once or twice a week for 20 min dont necesarly need them. good luck and good for you being concerned about your horses well being. the world needs more people like you out there. They should be checked every 6 weeks atleast and left tot he discretion of the farrier as to weather or not they should be done not when the horse owner thinks it should be done. If you dont get them looked at then that is neglect!

Answer 7

Normally a farrier will be used to service a horses hooves when uneven growth effects the horses gait, and more often prematurely to accommodate shoeing.

Answer 8

I have a colt and his feet have to be done every 6 weeks like clockwork. My two older horses don't have to be done as often. Maybe every 8 to 10 weeks. It just depends on the individual horse.

Answer 9

trimmed every 4-6 weeks

Answer 10

you should have them trimmed every 6-8 weeks