As the days get longer and riding schedules become busier, spring and summer bring welcome opportunities for hacking, training, competitions, and turnout. However, warmer weather and dry conditions can also place additional stress on your horse’s hooves.
Hard ground, increased mileage, dry weather, and changing pasture conditions can all impact hoof quality and comfort. For horses prone to brittle hooves, cracks, poor hoof growth, or lost shoes, the transition into spring and summer can be particularly challenging.
Supporting healthy hooves during the warmer months is essential for maintaining soundness, performance, and overall well-being.
Why Hoof Problems Often Increase in Spring & Summer
During winter, hooves are frequently exposed to wet, softer ground. As temperatures rise and the ground becomes harder and drier, the hoof capsule can lose moisture and flexibility.
This change in conditions may contribute to:
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Cracked hooves
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Brittle hoof walls
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Dry, weak feet
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Increased concussion on hard ground
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Lost shoes
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Hoof sensitivity
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Slower hoof recovery
Horses in regular work or competition often place even greater strain on their hooves during this time of year, especially when exercising on dry tracks, roads, or compacted ground.
The Importance of Nutrition for Healthy Hooves
Strong, resilient hooves begin from within. Because the hoof is constantly growing, consistent nutritional support is one of the most important factors in maintaining hoof quality.
Key nutrients commonly associated with healthy hoof growth include:
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Biotin
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Methionine
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Zinc
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MSM
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Amino acids
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Calcium
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Vitamin C
These nutrients help support keratin production, hoof horn quality, connective tissue strength, and healthy hoof growth.
Products such as Aviform Biodura Biotin Hoof Care for Horses combine biotin with methionine, MSM, zinc, calcium, vitamin C, and Jiaogulan to help support healthy hoof growth, hoof strength, and circulation to the foot.
Hard Ground & Hoof Concussion
One of the biggest challenges during spring and summer is the increase in hard ground conditions. Dry surfaces create more concussion through the hoof and lower limb, which can place additional stress on horses with weaker feet.
This may result in:
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Increased hoof wear
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Bruising
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Cracks and splits
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Sensitivity on firm ground
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Difficulty maintaining shoes
Regular hoof care and nutritional support may help horses cope more comfortably during periods of increased workload and harder terrain.
Why Circulation Matters for Hoof Health
Healthy circulation plays an important role in hoof growth and repair. The hoof relies on blood flow to deliver nutrients needed for healthy horn production.
Some hoof supplements now include ingredients designed to support circulation alongside traditional hoof nutrients. Jiaogulan, included in Biodura Biotin Hoof Care, is often used in equine nutrition to support circulation and overall hoof resilience.
Practical Tips for Protecting Hooves in Spring & Summer
Maintain Regular Farrier Appointments
Routine trimming and shoeing help reduce stress on the hoof wall and maintain balance.
Avoid Sudden Increases in Workload
Gradually increasing exercise allows hooves to adapt to harder surfaces more comfortably.
Support Hydration
Dry conditions can affect hoof elasticity, making hydration particularly important during warmer weather.
Check Feet Daily
Monitoring for cracks, heat, loose shoes, or sensitivity can help identify small issues before they become more serious.
Focus on Long-Term Hoof Support
Hoof growth takes time. Consistent nutrition and management are often more effective than short-term solutions.
Supporting Stronger Hooves Naturally
Healthy hooves are essential for movement, comfort, and performance all year round, particularly during spring and summer when horses are often more active.
At Aviform, we understand the importance of supporting hoof quality from the inside out. Our equine wellbeing range includes nutritional support designed to help maintain strong, healthy hooves, skin, and coat condition throughout the seasons.
You can learn more about Biodura Biotin Hoof Care for Horses and explore the wider equine range online.
Final Thoughts
Longer days and drier conditions can place extra demands on your horse’s hooves. By combining good hoof management, balanced nutrition, and consistent support, horse owners can help maintain strong, resilient feet throughout spring and summer.
Supporting hoof health proactively may help horses stay comfortable, active, and ready to enjoy the season ahead.