The debate between barefoot and shod hoof management in horses has welfare implications beyond tradition. Evidence-based hoof care decisions balance individual horse needs, work demands, and long-term musculoskeletal health.
Hoof care decisions have significant welfare implications that are often driven by tradition rather than evidence. The restriction of hoof mechanism by metal shoes may contribute to shock transmission, reduced blood circulation, and long-term joint health consequences in some horses. Conversely, horses with pre-existing conditions or working on abrasive surfaces may need protection. The welfare principle that should guide hoof care decisions is individualized assessment: each horse's conformation, work demands, footing conditions, and existing health issues should determine the appropriate approach. The growing barefoot movement has generated valuable evidence but dogmatic adherence to any single approach fails individual horses.