SubscribeGift a Sub
Enable cache 100
Horse Hoof Care

The Right Shoer

Before choosing a farrier, make sure he or she has the professional knowledge to do the job. Check references, investigate education/training and ask about professional association membership.



In addition to professional knowledge and skill, your relationship with your farrier is critical to ensuring healthy feet. When it comes to personal attributes, The American Farrier’s Association suggests you research the following before deciding on a farrier:

  • How does the potential farrier treat clients?
  • Does the farrier always arrive on the day and time scheduled?
  • Will the farrier treat you and your horse with respect and consideration?
  • Is the farrier willing to answer your questions and share knowledge so you’re aware of problems as they occur?
  • Will the farrier keep shoeing/trimming records on your horse?
  • Will the farrier discuss approaches to horse handling techniques?



Taking the time to choose the right farrier will ensure a beneficial relationship for you and your horse.

Further Reading
Could Your Horse’s Shoeing Pass Inspection?

Horse Illustrated

Horse Illustrated is the magazine for people who are passionate about horses. Each issue offers advice on horse health and care, plus user-friendly training tips for both English and western riders and engaging lifestyle features for horse lovers.

View Comments

Recent Posts

AHP Equine Industry Survey Returns in 2025

Horse owners who live in the United States, are 18 years of age and older, and currently own or manage…

2 days ago

Is My Horse Cold? – An Excerpt from Keeping Horses Outdoors by Iveta Jebáčková-Lažanská

Is your horse cold in the winter? The following excerpt from Keeping Horses Outdoors by Iveta Jebáčková-Lažanská helps answer that question…

2 days ago

ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Hali

Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the…

3 days ago

Common Horse Training Mistakes

These four common horse training mistakes are easier to catch and correct when you’re aware of them. As a clinician,…

4 days ago

All About the American Warmblood

If you appreciate sport horses of many different breeding backgrounds, types and colors, the American Warmblood will unite you with…

6 days ago

Waste: ReImagined – ZahnTech Repurposes Waste for a Permanent Fencing Solution

LENNOX, S.D. — Every great innovation begins with a moment of clarity, and for ZahnTech's founder, Avery Zahn, it came…

1 week ago