Master the Art of Horseshoeing
Learn traditional farriery skills from hoof care and assessment to forging custom shoes for every horse
Getting Started with Horseshoeing
Horseshoeing, or farriery, is one of the oldest and most respected applications of blacksmithing. A skilled farrier combines metalworking expertise with deep knowledge of equine anatomy and biomechanics to keep horses sound and comfortable.
This comprehensive guide covers everything from basic hoof care and assessment to forging custom shoes for performance horses. Whether you're interested in starting a farriery career or adding these skills to your blacksmithing repertoire, understanding both the craft and the science is essential.
Essential Farriery Knowledge
Hoof Anatomy & Assessment
Understanding hoof structure, growth patterns, and common problems is fundamental to proper farriery work.
- • Hoof wall, sole, and frog anatomy
- • Growth rates and seasonal changes
- • Common hoof problems and corrections
- • Balance and biomechanics
Shoe Forging & Fitting
Learn to forge shoes that fit properly and support the horse's individual needs and gait patterns.
- • Basic shoe patterns and modifications
- • Hot and cold shoe fitting
- • Therapeutic and corrective shoeing
- • Materials and when to use them
Horse Handling & Safety
Safe, effective horse handling is crucial for both farrier and horse safety during shoeing procedures.
- • Reading horse body language
- • Proper restraint techniques
- • Safety equipment and procedures
- • Working with difficult horses
Therapeutic Farriery
Advanced techniques for addressing lameness issues and supporting rehabilitation programs.
- • Common lameness conditions
- • Corrective shoeing principles
- • Working with veterinarians
- • Specialized therapeutic shoes
Farriery Specialization Areas
Performance Horse Shoeing
Specialized shoeing for racing, jumping, dressage, and other competitive disciplines. Focus on performance enhancement while maintaining soundness.
Draft Horse Farriery
Working with large draft breeds requires specialized techniques and equipment to handle the size and weight safely.
Therapeutic Farriery
Work closely with veterinarians to address lameness issues and support horses through injury recovery.
Your Farriery Journey
Foundation Skills (Beginner)
Learn hoof anatomy, basic trimming, and fundamental shoe fitting techniques.
Professional Development (Intermediate)
Build speed and efficiency while learning corrective techniques and business skills.
Specialization (Advanced)
Focus on specific disciplines or therapeutic work, potentially pursuing certification.
Find Horseshoeing Classes Near You
Expert Farriery Instructors
Related Techniques
Essential Reading
Career Outlook
- •Professional farriers typically earn $40,000-$80,000+ annually
- •High demand in rural areas and equestrian communities
- •Flexible schedule and independent business opportunities
- •Certification through American Farriers Association available