Why does my horse keep losing the same shoe? | arlo.® Atlas

Read time: 3 minutes

Overview

If your horse keeps losing the same shoe, it usually means something about that hoof, that shoe, or how the foot is being used is not quite right. Common causes include a loose fit, uneven wear, poor hoof balance, a weak wall, or the shoe being pulled off in mud, turnout or work.

It does not always mean there is a serious problem, but if it keeps happening, it is worth looking at the pattern carefully and speaking to your farrier.

Things To Check

1. Note when the shoe comes off. If it happens after turnout, after riding, or in muddy fields, that can point towards a management or traction issue.

2. Look closely at the hoof wall for chips, cracks, flare, or a shoe that seems to have been set too close to the edge.

3. Check whether the hoof is overgrowing between visits, as a long toe or uneven foot shape can put extra strain on the shoe.

4. Compare the shoeing on both sides. A shoe that keeps coming off the same foot may suggest that foot is moving differently or wearing differently from the others.

5. Look for signs of mud packing, trapped stones, or slipping in wet ground, especially if turnout conditions have changed.

6. Check for heat, sensitivity, swelling, or a changed way of going, which can suggest the hoof is uncomfortable.

7. Think about recent changes in workload, arena surface, turnout time, or field conditions, since these can all affect how long a shoe stays on.

Common Causes

The most common reason is a shoe that no longer fits the hoof as well as it should, often because the foot has changed shape or grown out since it was fitted.

Another common cause is imbalance in the hoof or limb, which can make one side of the shoe take more strain than the rest.

Wet, muddy or very uneven ground can also pull a shoe loose, especially if the horse is active in turnout.

Less commonly, a weak hoof wall, poor nail placement, or a toe clipping issue may be involved. In some horses, the way they move or work means one foot is simply more likely to lose shoes than the others.

What To Do

Keep a note of when and where the shoe is being lost. That pattern can help your farrier work out whether it is a fit issue, a turnout issue, or something else.

Check the foot regularly between appointments so you can spot chips, looseness or overgrowth early.

If the hoof is getting long before the next visit, ask your farrier whether the interval needs adjusting.

Try to reduce unnecessary strain on the foot by avoiding very deep mud or especially rough ground where possible until the next shoeing.

If the shoe comes off, keep the hoof clean and inspect it for any nail holes, tears or rubbing before the next farrier visit.

Products That May Help

If your horse is repeatedly losing the same shoe, keeping the hoof and surrounding area clean and dry between farrier visits can make routine management easier. This collection may be useful as part of that care.

Hoof, Leg & Mud Care

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