It's essential that you support your horse's hooves. This can be through proper hoof care like picking them out and regular farrier visits, but also with nutrition and supplements. There are key minerals and vitamins that can encourage growth and hardness in their hooves.

Hoof Supplements

Most hoof supplements are designed to create strong hooves with regular growth. Their main ingredient is usually biotin, but other vitamins and minerals are also included. Each month your horse will grow roughly 1/4" of new hoof. Keep a close eye on the growth around the coronary band, as it should look healthy.

It takes upwards of 9 to 12 months for a horse to grow a new hoof. Growth may also be slower around the winter months. A supplement with support even growth year-round.

Some minerals you may find in a hoof supplement include:

  • Biotin
  • Zinc
  • Methionine
  • Fats like omega-3 fatty acid

Each plays an important role. For example, zinc supports a healthy hoof wall. Biotin allows the cells to stick together better and fats create a more pliable hoof.

When selecting a supplement, you'll need to evaluate your horse's diet and see what they may be missing or low in. An equine nutritionist can further assist. You can start by checking out Farrier's Formula® Double Strength and SmartHoof® Ultra Pellets.