When should I call the farrier for a hoof crack?
Share This Guide
Read time: 3 minutes
Overview
It’s sensible to call the farrier for a hoof crack if it’s new, getting bigger, reaching higher up the hoof, or seems to be affecting how your horse is moving. Some cracks are minor and only need monitoring, but others need the farrier to assess balance, trim, and whether the hoof is under uneven strain.
There can be several reasons for a crack, including dryness, wet-dry changes, trimming balance, hoof shape, or wear. You usually can’t tell the full cause just by looking at it, so early advice from your farrier is often the safest next step.
Things To Check
1. Note whether the crack is in the toe, quarter, heel, or higher up the hoof wall, as the location can affect how urgently it needs attention.
2. Check if the crack is shallow and stable, or if it is spreading, widening, or showing any sign of movement between checks.
3. Look for heat, swelling, soreness, or a change in stride, especially if the horse is uncomfortable on hard ground.
4. See whether there is any discharge, bleeding, a foul smell, or loose horn around the crack.
5. Think about recent changes such as very wet turnout, dry ground, a new exercise level, or a missed or delayed trim.
6. Check whether the crack reaches the coronary band or appears deep enough that it could be affecting the inner structures of the hoof.
7. Compare all four feet if you can, as similar cracks on more than one hoof may point to a broader management issue rather than a single damaged area.
Common Causes
The most common causes are dry or brittle horn, repeated wet and dry conditions, and trim or balance issues that leave part of the hoof carrying more strain than it should.
Cracks can also develop after bruising, knocks, or wear on hard or uneven ground. Less commonly, a deeper crack may be linked with infection, poor hoof quality, or an underlying hoof problem that needs professional assessment.
What To Do
Keep the hoof clean and check it regularly so you can spot any change early. Make a note of when the crack first appeared, whether it is growing, and whether your horse seems sore.
Arrange a farrier visit if the crack is changing, if the hoof is imbalanced, or if the horse is due a trim. Try to keep turnout and work sensible for the current hoof condition, and reduce unnecessary strain on hard or uneven surfaces until it has been assessed.
If the hoof is very dry, very wet, or repeatedly changing between the two, improving the horse’s general hoof environment may help support day-to-day management. Avoid picking at the crack or trimming it yourself unless you’ve been specifically shown what to do.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the crack is deep, reaches the coronary band, is bleeding, or the horse is clearly lame, because a hoof crack can sometimes involve more than the outer wall. You should also get veterinary advice if there is swelling, heat, discharge, or the horse seems much more painful than you’d expect from a simple surface crack.
Products That May Help
If your horse is dealing with muddy turnout, damp conditions or general hoof hygiene concerns alongside a crack, this collection may be useful for day-to-day care and stable management.
Related Questions
Can a hoof crack heal on its own?
How often should a farrier look at a cracked hoof?
What’s the difference between a superficial crack and a serious one?
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.