There are few things more frustrating to a horse owner than seeing their prized animal limping around the pasture. So many people find themselves thinking, “I wish I knew the best hoof supplements for horses to help them stay healthy and sound!” and this is understandable.
The good news is that many horse hoof supplements can help horses with problems ranging from anemia to colic to laminitis.
We’ve compiled a list of the nine best hoof supplements for horses, so you don’t have to worry anymore! These products have been tried and tested by horse owners just like you. You’ll be able to choose from nutritional or medical supplements depending on your horse’s specific needs.
So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the best hoof supplements for horses on the market today!
The Three Layers of the Horse Hoof
The hoof comprises three layers: The sole, the frog, and the bars.
The Sole
The sole is the bottom layer of the hoof and is made up of horny cells that make up the frog and the heel. Unlike the upper part of the hoof that is made up of keratin, the sole is primarily composed of collagen.
The sole helps horses with traction on slippery surfaces and allows them to walk more efficiently. This layer also acts as a shock absorber for horses during exercise. So when you hear about “solid” or “hard” hooves, this is what people refer to.
The Frog
The frog is a V-shaped piece of tissue located at the back of the hoof. It is composed of soft, spongy tissues and helps the horse distribute weight evenly when standing. This layer also helps the horse cool their hooves.
The Bars
The bars are the thin, horizontal pieces of tissue that run along the frog’s sides. They help to anchor the frog and keep it in place.
Components of a Good Hoof Care Supplement for Horses
Now that you know a bit more about the three layers of the horse’s hoof, let’s take a look at what makes a good horse hoof supplement.
A good hoof supplement will have the following components:
Biotin
Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin necessary for the growth of keratin. It is found in many foods, including eggs, legumes, and nuts. Biotin deficiencies can lead to problems with the hoof, such as cracks, thinning, and brittleness. This is why biotin is often a component of horse hoof supplements.
Biotin is also vital for the health of the hair and skin, hence why it is also referred to as vitamin H. Your horse can get biotin naturally in two ways: through its diet or the bacteria in its gut. If your horse’s diet is not providing enough biotin, then a biotin supplement may be a good idea.
When you give biotin as a supplement, there are certain requirements you need to meet for it to be effective. These include the following:
- The biotin supplement must be in an easily absorbable form, such as a pellet or a powder.
- The horse must consume a minimum of 15 mg (0.015 grams) of biotin per day.
- The horse’s diet must also include a good source of copper.
- If your horse is on antibiotics, it may not be able to process the biotin in its gut. If this is the case, your veterinarian should be able to recommend other supplements for your horse.
- If your horse is aged, pregnant, or nursing, it is essential to speak with your veterinarian before starting them on a biotin supplement.
- If your horse is recovering from a hoof injury, we recommend giving biotin with a mixture of other supplements until the injury has healed.
Calcium
Calcium is an essential mineral for horses and is necessary for different functions, including bone health, muscle contraction, and blood clotting. A calcium deficiency can lead to problems with the hoof, such as poor growth, weak hooves, and cracks.
Your horse can get calcium in many foods, including hay, grass, oats, and legumes.
Calcium can be toxic to horses in elevated doses, so they mustn’t consume too much. An average mature horse needs about 20 grams (0.02 kg) of calcium per day, depending on its diet and activity level.
Methionine
Methionine is an amino acid essential for your horse and helps build proteins. Problems with the hoof can be part of a methionine deficiency because this amino acid helps the horse make keratin.
Methionine is found in the seeds of plants, oats, peas, alfalfa hay, and soybeans.
Methionine is an integral part of a horse’s diet, but some horses may need extra methionine if they are recovering from a hoof injury. This is why it is often a component of horse hoof supplements.
Methionine is often combined with biotin in horse hoof supplements because these two nutrients work together to help the horse grow healthy hooves.
Zinc
Zinc is another mineral that is essential for horses. It helps with different functions, including the growth and repair of tissues, the absorption of nutrients, and the immune system’s health. A zinc deficiency can lead to problems with the hoof, such as cracks, thinning, and brittleness.
Zinc is found in different foods, including hay, oats, and legumes. Your horse can also get zinc from mineral licks.
Zinc is an important part of a horse’s diet, but some horses may need extra zinc to recover from a hoof injury. This is why it is one of the components of horse hoof supplements. Depending on its diet and activity level, an average mature horse requires 400-500 grams (0.4-0.5 kg) of zinc per day.
Copper
Copper is essential for your horses’ hooves because it is a part of the enzyme collagenase, which helps with keratinization. Therefore, a copper deficiency can lead to problems with the hoof, such as poor growth, weak hooves, and cracks.
Copper is found in different foods, including hay, grass, oats, and legumes.
Your horse can also get copper from mineral licks if the ones they are eating do not provide enough. Many horse hoof supplements contain both zinc and copper because these two nutrients work together to help the horse create a strong, healthy hoof.
An ideal amount of copper for your horse is 100-200 mg (0.1-0.2 kg) per day, depending on its level of activity.
The Best Horse Hoof Supplements: At a Glance
| Name Of Product | EQ Rating out of 10 | Best for Case |
| Farnam Horseshoer’s Secret Pelleted Hoof Supplement 11 Pounds 30 Days | 9.5 out of 10 | Best Overall |
| Farnam Horseshoer’s Secret Extra Strength 7.5 lbs 60 Day Supply | 8.8 out of 10 | Best Runner-Up |
| Horse Health Biotin Crumbles for Horses | 8.5 out of 10 | Best for All Horses |
| Manna Pro Sho-Hoof Supplement for Horses | Biotin and Zinc Methionine for Healthy Hooves | 5 Pounds | 8 out of 10 | Highly Palatable |
| Formula 707 Daily Fresh Packs Equine Supplements | 7.8 out of 10 | Best Pre-Measured Packs |
| Horse Health Joint Combo Hoof & Coat 3.75 pounds 30 day supply | 7.5 out of 10 | Value for Money |
| Farnam Horseshoer’s Secret Deep-Penetrating Hoof Conditioner, 32 fl oz | 7 out of 10 | Best Moisturizing |
| (2 Pack) Biotin Daily Hoof Care Supplement | 6.8 out of 10 | Easy to Digest |
| Tribute Tough As Nails 11lbs Pelleted Hoof Supplement | 6.5 out of 10 | Best for Extra Hoof Support |
9 Top Hoof Supplements for Horses
Best Overall; Farnam Horseshoer’s Secret Pelleted Hoof Supplement 11 Pounds 30 Days
List of Key Features
- Is the product veterinary-approved or not?: Recommended by vets
- Is the product breed specific?: No
- Form that the supplement comes in: Pellet
- Volume of the product: Available in 11 pounds (5 kg), 22 pounds (10 kg), and 38 pounds (17.2 kg)
- Does the product have any side effects: No
- Can the product be used with other supplements and medications or stand-alone?: Stand-alone
- Do you need a prescription for the product: No
- The dosage required and frequency thereof: 6-oz (226.8 g) serving per day
- How long does the product last?: 11 pounds (5 kg) takes 30 days, 22 pounds (10 kg) takes 60 days, and 38 pounds (17.2 kg) takes 100 days
- Guarantees and warranties where applicable: Not applicable
- Is the product aimed at prevention or maintenance or both?: Both
Farnam Horseshoer’s Secret is a pellet hoof supplement for horses that are designed to strengthen and improve the overall health of your horse’s hooves.
It contains several different ingredients, including biotin, methionine, lysine, omega 3 & 6 fatty acids, copper, and zinc.
The supplement helps improve the strength of the hoof wall by promoting keratin growth. It also helps horses recover from injuries and helps keep the hooves hydrated, which is essential for ensuring they grow correctly.
To use this horse hoof supplement, you should feed your stallion 6 ounces (312g) per day for 6-8 weeks. If you use it to help with a hoof injury, you should continue feeding it for 6-12 months.
Pros
- It contains several different nutrients that help improve the health of the hoof
- Can help horses recover from injuries
- Help keep the hooves hydrated
- Easy to feed, as it is a pelleted supplement
Cons
- It can be expensive if you are using it long-term
Best Runner-Up: Farnam Horseshoer’s Secret Extra Strength 7.5 lbs 60 Day Supply
List of Key Features
- Is the product veterinary-approved or not?: Recommended by vets
- Is the product breed specific?: No
- Form that the supplement comes in: Pellet
- Volume of the product: Available in 3.75 pounds (1.7 kg) and 7.5 pounds (3.4 kg)
- Does the product have any side effects: No
- Can the product be used with other supplements and medications or stand-alone?: Stand-alone
- Do you need a prescription for the product: No
- The dosage required and frequency thereof: 4 oz (151.2 g) per day for 6-8 months
- How long does the product last?: 3.75 pounds (1.7 kg) takes 30 days, 7.5 pounds (3.4 kg) takes 60 days
- Guarantees and warranties where applicable: Not applicable
- Is the product aimed at prevention or maintenance or both?: Maintenance
This supplement combines biotin, methionine, and lysine, which are critical for hoof health. It is also a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect the hoof from damage.
Horseshoer’s Secret Extra comes in a 7.5-pound (3.4 kg) tub and is designed to help horses needing a little extra support due to environmental factors, genetic predisposition, or performance demands.
Farnam is an extremely well-known and trusted brand in the horse industry, so you can be sure that this supplement is a quality product.
If you are looking for the best all-around horse hoof supplement to support cracked hooves, hoof dryness, and even healthy hooves, then Horseshoer’s Secret is a great choice. It can also be used as a support supplement for horses on a biotin supplement program.
Pros
- Great for hoof health as a stand-alone supplement or as a support
- Good all-around supplemental source of biotin, methionine, and lysine
- A trusted name in the horse industry
Cons
- Some horse owners didn’t like the smell
Best for All Horses: Horse Health Biotin Crumbles for Horses
Amazon Choice for Biotin for Horses
List of Key Features
- Is the product veterinary approved or not?: Recommended by vets
- Is the product breed specific?: No
- Form that the supplement comes in: Powder
- Volume of the product: Available in 3 pounds (1.4 kg) and 20 pounds (9.1 kg)
- Does the product have any side effects: No
- Can the product be used with other supplements and medications or stand-alone?: Stand-alone
- Do you need a prescription for the product: No
- How long does the product last?: 3 pounds (1.36 kg) 48 days, 20 pounds (9.07 kg) 640 days
- Guarantees and warranties where applicable: Not applicable
- Is the product aimed at prevention or maintenance or both?: Maintenance
Horses are often called “living machines” because they convert food into energy. This means that a horse’s health is closely related to how well it can digest its feed and extract nutrients from it.
One way to make sure your horse has enough digestive enzymes is by adding Horse Health Biotin Crumbles for Horses. It contains 0.00025 oz (6.25 mg) of biotin per ounce, making them one of the best biotin supplements for horses on the market!
These crumbles come in two different sizes: 40 days or 320 days, so whether you have just purchased a new horse or have been caring for one all year round, you will be able to find the right size supplement for your needs.
This supplement’s biotin helps create enzymes that break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in horse feed. This means that your horse will be able to extract more nutrients from the food it consumes, leading to better overall health and vitality.
The supplement supports strong hoof walls, healthy skin, and a shiny coat, making it an ideal choice for any horse owner.
Pros
- Helps to create enzymes for healthy digestion
- Contains 0.00025 oz (6.25 mg) of biotin per ounce
- Two different sizes to choose from
- Supports strong hoof walls, healthy skin, and a shiny coat
Cons
- N/A
Highly Palatable: Manna Pro Sho-Hoof Supplement for Horses | Biotin and Zinc Methionine for Healthy Hooves | 5 Pounds
Amazon’s Choice for Sho Hoof Supplement for Horses
List of Key Features
- Is the product veterinary-approved or not?: Recommended by vets
- Is the product breed specific?: No
- Form that the supplement comes in: Pellet
- Volume of the product: 5 pounds (2.3 kg)
- Does the product have any side effects: No
- Can the product be used with other supplements and medications or stand-alone?: Can be used with other supplements
- Do you need a prescription for the product: No
- How long does the product last?: 40 days
- Guarantees and warranties where applicable: Not applicable
- Is the product aimed at prevention or maintenance or both?: Both
When it comes to hoof supplements for horses, Manna Pro Sho-Hoof Supplement is one of the best choices you can make. It contains a blend of methionine, zinc, and biotin that work together to support healthy hooves.
Sho-Hoof is also fortified with omega 3 fatty acids and amino acids, which help keep your horse’s coat looking shiny and healthy. Plus, it comes in a convenient 5-pound (2.27 kg) size that is easy to store and use.
The scientific formulation offers advanced performance with other Manna Pro supplements like Sho-Flex and Sho-Glo for improved results. So, if you’re looking for a horse hoof supplement that can do it all, Manna Pro Sho-Hoof Supplement is a perfect choice.
The supplement is highly palatable and easy to feed, making it an excellent choice for even the fussiest of horses. And since healthy hooves are essential for your horse’s overall health, Manna Pro Sho-Hoof Supplement helps develop strong hooves that can withstand the challenges of everyday life.
Pros
- Scientifically formulated
- Highly palatable
- Omega 3 fatty acids and amino acids for a healthy coat
- Easy to feed
Cons
- None identified
Best Pre-Measured Packs: Formula 707 Daily Fresh Packs Equine Supplements
List of Key Features
- Is the product veterinary-approved or not?: Recommended by vets
- Is the product breed specific?: No
- Form that the supplement comes in: Pellet
- Volume of the product: 56 packs
- Does the product have any side effects: No
- Can the product be used with other supplements and medications or stand-alone?: Standalone
- Do you need a prescription for the product: No
- How long does the product last?: 56 days
- The dosage required and frequency thereof: 1 pack per day
- Guarantees and warranties where applicable: Not applicable
- Is the product aimed at prevention or maintenance or both?: Maintenance
Formula 707 Daily Fresh Packs Equine Supplements is a top choice for horse owners looking to keep their horse’s hooves in good shape. These packs contain D-Biotin, DL-Methionine, and L-Lysine, which help with the overall hoof quality of your horse.
The Proteinate minerals in the packs help to maximize bioavailability and absorption. In addition, the packs are accurate and pre-measured for your convenience, and they also come sealed to keep out oxygen, moisture, and sunlight. This helps to maintain the freshness of the supplements.
Formula 707 Daily Fresh Packs nourish and improve cracking, chipping, and splitting of hooves. They are easy to administer, and the pre-measured packs make it simple for anyone with no previous experience supplementing horses or simply those who don’t want to fuss with mixing ingredients together themselves.
Daily Fresh Packs also help improve hoof quality, which is essential for healthy, functional feet. This supplement is convenient for on-the-go horse owners and helpful for those who want an all-in-one solution to horse hoof health.
Pros
- Convenient pre-measured packs
- Improve hoof quality
- Great value
Cons
- Some find the packs hard to open
Value for Money: Horse Health Joint Combo Hoof & Coat 3.75 pounds 30 day supply
List of Key Features
- Is the product veterinary approved or not?: Recommended by vets
- Is the product breed specific?: No
- What does the product target?: Joint, hoof, coat
- Form that the supplement comes in: Pellet
- Volume of the product: 3.75 pounds (1.7 kg)
- Does the product have any side effects: No
- Can the product be used with other supplements and medications or stand-alone?: Standalone
- Do you need a prescription for the product: No
- How long does the product last?: 30 days
- The dosage required and frequency thereof: 2 oz. (58.54 ml) serving
- Guarantees and warranties where applicable: Not applicable
- Is the product aimed at prevention or maintenance or both?: Maintenance
Horses are often bred for racing, so they’re genetically predisposed to joint problems. That’s why it’s important to take good care of your horse’s joints with the right supplements.
Horse Health Joint Combo Hoof & Coat is a 3-in-1 horse hoof supplement that will keep your horse healthy by providing joint support, hoof health, and coat protection.
This supplement contains glucosamine HCl, vitamin C, Chondroitin Sulfate, Manganese, and MSM which work together to promote healthy joints, while Omega fatty acids provide necessary fats for the skin and mane/tail upkeep.
You can rest assured, knowing you are giving your horse what he needs thanks to this easy-to-administer supplement in convenient cinnamon apple-flavored pellets.
Pros
- Promotes joint health
- Helps keep a healthy coat and mane/tail
- Convenient, easy to feed pellets
- 30-day supply in each bag
- Cinnamon apple-flavored pellets
Cons
- Some owners complained that their horse would not eat the pellets
Best Moisturizing: Farnam Horseshoer’s Secret Deep-Penetrating Hoof Conditioner, 32 fl oz
Amazon’s Choice in Horse Skin, Coat & Hoof Supplements by Farnam
List of Key Features
- Is the product veterinary approved or not?: Recommended by vets
- Is the product breed specific?: No
- Form that the supplement comes in: Liquid
- Volume of the product: 32 fl oz (0.9 l)
- Does the product have any side effects: No
- Can the product be used with other supplements and medications or stand-alone?: Stand alone
- Do you need a prescription for the product: No
- Guarantees and warranties where applicable: Not applicable
- Is the product aimed at prevention or maintenance or both?: Both
If you’re looking for the best horse hoof supplement that will effectively penetrate the hooves, Farnam Horseshoer’s Secret Deep Penetrating Hohttps://docs.google.com/document/d/1YefKLljpl1eeX0G2X8m1L7UkTCtRDONAkpiJrM2xoIU/edit of Conditioner is your best bet.
This product not only moisturizes and softens the hoof, but it also penetrates deeply to condition and restores.
Made with natural ingredients like avocado oil and glycerine, this product leaves no greasy residue behind on your hands or your horse’s coat. You can use this deep penetrating hoof conditioner in between shoeings to keep your horse healthy and strong!
The supplement also comes in a liquid form, which is easy to apply and has a pine scent that horses love.
Pros
- Helps to condition and restore the hoof
- Penetrates deeply to condition and soften
- Leaves no greasy residue behind
- Avocado oil supports healthy, strong hooves
- Can be used between shoeings
Cons
- The pine scent may be too strong for horses with very sensitive noses
Easy to Digest: (2 Pack) Biotin Daily Hoof Care Supplement
Amazon’s Choice for Biotin Plus for Horses
List of Key Features
- Is the product veterinary approved or not?: Recommended by vets
- Is the product breed specific?: No
- Form that the supplement comes in: Pellets
- Does the product have any side effects: No
- Can the product be used with other supplements and medications or stand-alone?: Stand alone
- Volume of the product: 2.5 pounds (1.13 kg) each container
- How long does the product last?: 36-72 days
- Do you need a prescription for the product: No
- Guarantees and warranties where applicable: Not applicable
- Is the product aimed at prevention or maintenance or both?: Maintenance
Most horses are not getting the nutrients they need to maintain healthy hooves. This is because their diet doesn’t usually include enough biotin. In addition, even those given plenty of biotin may not be getting enough because it is destroyed by cooking and processing.
This product provides a way to ensure your horse gets the proper amount of biotin and other nutrients such as flaxseed meals, amino acids, and minerals.
The ingredients in this supplement work together to help ensure your horse’s hoofs are strong so they can stay healthy and continue to work their hardest for you.
This product is a good idea if your horse shows signs of thin or soft hooves or if they have been through any sort of stressful situation that may have had a negative impact on their hoof health.
The supplement comes in apple-flavored pellets and two packs of crumbles. It is very easy to administer as it can be fed with their regular food.
Pros
- Easy to feed
- Ideal for horses with good hooves that require only maintenance care
- Essential for the maintenance of normal hoof function and coat condition
Cons
- Some horses may not like the apple flavor.
Best for Extra Hoof Support: Tribute Tough As Nails 11lbs Pelleted Hoof Supplement
List of Key Features
- Is the product veterinary approved or not?: Recommended by vets
- Is the product breed specific?: No
- Form that the supplement comes in: Pellets
- Does the product have any side effects: No
- Can the product be used with other supplements and medications or stand-alone?: Stand alone
- Volume of the product: 11 pounds (5 kg)
- Do you need a prescription for the product: No
- Guarantees and warranties where applicable: Not applicable
- Is the product aimed at prevention or maintenance or both?: Maintenance
Many horse owners know that a healthy diet is just as crucial for their horses as for themselves.
Achieving the right balance of nutrients and minerals can be difficult, but with Tribute Tough As Nails horse hoof supplement, you will have all the necessary ingredients to promote healthy hooves at your fingertips!
Each bucket of this supplement includes Biotin, Iodine, Calcium, organic minerals (zinc and copper), Methionine/Cysteine amino acids, and more! This means that not only do you get a perfect blend of ingredients in each bucket- but also an incredible value.
Tribute Tough As Nails hoof supplement offers everything you need to produce strong, healthy hooves.
Zinc helps maintain a strong immune system, while copper supports connective tissues throughout the body, essential for overall health.
Methionine/Cysteine amino acids are also included to help you achieve admirable hooves- making Tribute Tough As Nails horse hoof supplement work with enzymes important in developing and maintaining hoof structure.
Iodine is also included to help form hoof cells and keratin- ensuring that your horse has everything it needs to grow healthy nails.
Your horse will benefit from a wide array of vitamins and minerals with this supplement- all at an affordable price!
Pros
- Includes a blend of essential minerals and nutrients
- It offers everything you need to produce strong, healthy hooves
- An affordable price
Cons
- None!
Optimal Hoof Care Recommendations
No matter the breed, all horses need good hoof care. But, unfortunately, this is not always easy to come by. In fact, many people do not even know where to start when it comes to caring for their horse’s hooves.
The good news is that there are a few basic steps that you can take to help ensure your horse’s hooves are in good condition.
The following are a few of the most critical hoof-care recommendations:
Keep Your Horse’s Hooves Trimmed on a Regular Basis
One of the most important things you can do for your horse’s hooves is to keep them well-trimmed.
If your horse lives in a paddock or pasture, you can simply trim his hooves about once per month. Also, don’t forget to clean your horse’s hooves regularly- this will help remove any debris or mud that can accumulate and cause problems.
If your horse lives in a stall, you will need to trim his hooves more often- typically every two to four weeks.
Use a Good Hoof Oil
Another vital step in good hoof care is regularly applying good hoof oil. Again, there are dozens of different brands and styles on the market, so take your time and do some research before making your purchase.
The best thing to do is look for hoof oils specifically designed for the biomechanics, physiology, and structure of your horse’s hooves.
On that note, in some cases, moisturizing hoof oils can be just as good as regular unrefined oil. This is because some moisturizing oils are filled with nutrients that can help your horse’s hooves to stay strong, healthy, and resilient.
Feed a Balanced Diet
In order to have healthy hooves, your horse needs to be eating a balanced diet. Make sure that it is getting all of the minerals and vitamins he needs, as well as plenty of hay and/or grasses.
If your horse does not eat enough hay or grasses, you may need to supplement his diet with a good quality feed.
The following are the general recommendations for horse hoof development:
- Zinc– 175 mg (0.175g) per day
- Iodine– 1 mg/ (0.001g) per day
- Methionine– 2500 mg (2.5g) per day
- Biotin– 20 mg (0.02g) per day
Consider Using a Horse Hoof Supplement
If you are having a hard time ensuring that your horse is getting all the nutrients it needs for healthy hooves, you may want to consider investing in hoof supplements for horses.
These supplements are designed to provide your horse with all of the key nutrients your horse needs for healthy hooves. They are typically a blend of minerals (zinc and copper, for example), vitamins, and amino acids.
One of the best things about horse hoof supplements is that they are affordable and easy to use. Simply add them to your horse’s feed ration, and you’re good to go!
Conclusion
Having good hooves is key to your horse’s happiness, comfort, and health.
However, providing all the nutrients your equine friend requires can be difficult, especially if you do not grow hay or grasses in your backyard!
That’s why we put together this list of the nine best hoof supplements for horses, with Farnam Horseshoer’s Secret Pelleted Hoof Supplement being our favorite pick.
We hope that this will help you find the perfect supplement for your horse’s needs. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always happy to help!
Happy trails!