What Natural Hoof Trimming Does

Proper Natural Hoof Trimming aims to:

• Encourage a tight laminar connection by dealing with flares to ensure the coffin bone is held strongly in the top of the hoof capsule
• Develop the tissues in the back of the foot to encourage a heel first landing. Thrush infections = pain in the back of the foot, you will not have a consistent heel first landing until you get rid of thrush. Movement is key to developing the digital cushion.
• Trim the bars so that they are straight and add support to the bottom of the horse’s hoof. The bars are an extension of the hoof wall and need to be maintained.
• Get the heels back into balance with the internal structures and landing in the back of the foot. Heels are trimmed to give the frog the stimulus it needs to be healthy. You want low heels that allow the entire foot to function optimally.
• Shorten the toe to bring it back to its natural breakover point. A long toe causes excessive leverage on the joints and doesn't allow for a quick breakover. Imagine walking around with swimming flippers on all the time...
• Bevel the outside wall to prevent splitting and chipping of the hoof wall. The angle helps to redirect the pressure from the ground from becoming a separational force. The inner wall, frog, sole and heels all play a role in weight bearing, and the function of the hoof.