When are crusty pasterns in a horse more than just dry skin?
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Overview
Crusty pasterns are more than just dry skin when the area becomes red, sore, itchy, scabby, swollen or starts to crack. That can happen with mallenders or sallenders, but there are also other common skin issues that can look similar, so it’s worth checking the area closely rather than assuming it’s only dryness.
Things To Check
1. Check whether it’s in the front or back of the leg, as that can help you describe the pattern clearly to a vet if needed.
2. Look for scabs, crusting, flaky skin, raw patches, cracked skin, discharge or an unpleasant smell.
3. Feel gently for heat, swelling or tenderness, and note whether your horse objects to touch.
4. See whether the horse is rubbing, stamping, biting at the legs or showing signs of irritation.
5. Check if the problem is worse after mud, turnout, clipping, washing or sweating.
6. Look at both legs to see whether it’s on one side or both, and whether the pattern is similar.
7. Check the skin for broken hair, small wounds, mud staining or signs that the area has been repeatedly wet or dirty.
8. Note how long it has been there and whether it’s staying the same, improving or getting worse.
Common Causes
The most common cause is simple dry, irritated skin, especially if the area has been washed often, exposed to mud, or left damp after exercise or turnout.
Mallenders and sallenders are another common possibility. These are usually linked to crusting and scaling in specific areas of the legs, often the back of the front legs or the front of the hocks, and can be ongoing rather than just a one-off dry patch.
It can also be caused by mild skin inflammation from friction, clipping, rubbing or sensitivity to environmental conditions.
Less commonly, crusty pasterns can be part of a more general skin problem, such as bacterial infection, mites or a condition that needs a closer veterinary look if it keeps returning or becomes sore.
What To Do
Keep the area clean and dry, but avoid over-washing or scrubbing, as that can make irritation worse.
Use a calm, consistent routine so you can spot changes early. Gentle grooming, regular checking after turnout and drying the legs well after washing can all help with day-to-day management.
If mud seems to be a trigger, try to reduce how long the legs stay wet or dirty and keep on top of stable and turnout hygiene where you can.
Don’t pick at scabs or crusts. That can make the skin more sore and harder to monitor.
If the area is not improving, is spreading, or keeps coming back, it’s sensible to ask your vet for advice so they can check whether there’s an underlying skin condition or infection.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the skin is cracked, painful, swollen, oozing or foul-smelling, or if your horse is very itchy, uncomfortable or becoming difficult to handle. It’s also worth getting advice if the problem keeps returning, spreads, or doesn’t improve with sensible basic care.
Products That May Help
If your horse’s pasterns are dry, flaky or prone to built-up debris, gentle washing as part of your routine may help keep the area cleaner and easier to monitor.
Related Questions
What does mallenders look like on a horse?
Why do my horse’s pasterns keep getting crusty after turnout?
Should I wash crusty pasterns or leave them alone?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.