When it comes to hoof care, oiling a horse’s feet is one of those practices that seems simple but carries a lot of nuance. Are you oiling at the right time of day? How often should you do it? And most importantly, is hoof oil actually solving the root of your horse’s hoof health issues? In this guide, we’ll explore the when, how, and why of hoof oiling, while also emphasising the crucial role of nutrition in building strong, resilient hooves.

Why Should You Oil Your Horse’s Hooves? Benefits and Insights

Oiling your horse’s hooves isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about moisture retention and protection. Here’s why it matters:

• Moisture Retention: Oiling helps to lock moisture in during dry conditions and prevent excessive water absorption in wet conditions (EquiSearch).
• Prevent Cracks: Regular oiling can help prevent cracks and chips, especially in brittle hooves (KER).
• Barrier Protection: Oils create a protective layer against environmental extremes, whether it’s dry summer paddocks or muddy winter conditions (SmartPak Equine).

However, hoof oil isn’t a miracle fix. If the hooves are brittle or soft due to poor nutrition, no amount of oil will resolve the underlying issue.

What Is the Best Time to Oil Your Horse’s Hooves? Morning vs Evening Explained (TheHorse.com) (TheHorse.com)

Timing matters when it comes to hoof oil application:

• After Washing or Soaking Hooves: Hoof oil is most effective when applied after the hooves have been cleaned and are slightly damp. This allows the oil to seal in existing moisture.
• Evening Application: In dry climates, applying hoof oil in the evening prevents the sun from baking it off during the day, maximising its moisture-locking potential.
• Before Turnout in Wet Conditions: Applying oil before your horse goes out into a muddy paddock creates a protective barrier, reducing excessive moisture absorption.

How Often Should I Oil My Horse’s Hooves? A Practical Guide

Frequency depends on your horse’s living conditions and hoof health:

• Dry Conditions: 2–3 times a week to maintain moisture balance.
• Wet Conditions: Once a week, primarily for protection.
• Compromised Hooves: Horses with brittle or cracked hooves may benefit from daily applications until improvement is visible.

It’s important not to over-oil, as this can seal the hoof too tightly and interfere with natural moisture regulation.

Should I Feed My Horse Biotin for Hoof Health? Nutrition Essentials Explained (TheHorse.com)

While oiling helps externally, healthy hooves start from the inside. Here are key nutritional elements for optimal hoof health:

• Biotin: While biotin is an essential vitamin for hoof strength and supplementation of 15–20mg per day is often recommended (TheHorse.com), it’s important to note that a healthy hindgut will naturally produce sufficient biotin for most horses. Hoof health often reflects overall gut health, acting as a ‘canary in the coal mine.’ While biotin is safe and affordable, it’s not always necessary to supplement it. Some research suggests doses as high as 50mg per day can be beneficial for horses with particularly shelly hooves (EquiSearch), but in my clinical experience, correcting hindgut health often has an equal or greater effect. Therefore, mindfulness is encouraged when supplementing biotin, with an emphasis on feeding a well-supported, forage-based diet to address the root causes of poor hoof health., it’s important to note that a healthy hindgut will naturally produce sufficient biotin for most horses. Hoof health often reflects overall gut health, acting as a ‘canary in the coal mine.’ While biotin is safe and affordable, it’s not always necessary to supplement it. Some research suggests doses as high as 50mg per day can be beneficial for horses with particularly shelly hooves, but in my clinical experience, correcting hindgut health often has an equal or greater effect. Therefore, mindfulness is encouraged when supplementing biotin, with an emphasis on feeding a well-supported, forage-based diet to address the root causes of poor hoof health.

• Zinc and Copper: These trace minerals support keratin production and hoof wall integrity (KER).

• Methionine: An amino acid critical for keratin synthesis (SmartPak Equine).

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in oils like fish oil, omega-3s reduce inflammation and promote healthy tissue growth (TheHorse.com).

For more on equine nutrition and hoof health, visit TheHorse.com or EquiSearch.

What Is the Best Hoof Oil for Horses? Key Ingredients to Look For

Not all hoof oils are created equal. Look for products with these key ingredients:

• Natural Oils: Coconut oil, lanolin, or olive oil for moisture retention.
• Antifungal Agents: Tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil to prevent fungal infections.
• No Harsh Chemicals: Avoid oils with excessive petroleum derivatives.

For product reviews and recommendations, check SmartPak Equine or KER.

How to Oil a Horse’s Hooves: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Clean Thoroughly: Remove dirt and debris from the hoof.
2. Moisturise First (if dry): If hooves are excessively dry, soak briefly in water.
3. Apply Oil Evenly: Focus on the hoof wall, sole, and frog.
4. Let It Absorb: Allow the oil to absorb fully before turnout.

Expert Tips for Oiling Your Horse’s Hooves and Improving Hoof Health

Oiling your horse’s feet is an important part of hoof care, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Prioritise nutrition, use high-quality hoof oils, and apply them at the right time for maximum effectiveness.

Remember: A balanced diet rich in biotin, zinc, copper, and omega-3 fatty acids will always have a more significant impact on hoof health than any topical application.

By combining thoughtful hoof care practices with targeted nutrition, you’ll ensure your horse’s hooves are as healthy and resilient as possible.