There are a wide range of topical hoof products available on the market – from dressings to balms to oils – but why are they important? Hooves are designed to receive 90% of their moisture from within. These dressings can help to prevent moisture escaping the hoof wall.
What is a hoof dressing?
Hoof dressings usually contain a combination of oils, waxes and resins to help regulate moisture levels and provide a protective barrier. Some of them might contain ingredients with anti-microbial properties. Alongside good quality nutrition and regular farriery, hoof dressing can be an excellent tool to support hooves topically.
Our Better 4 Hooves Healthy Hoof Dressing contains a blend of natural oils including coconut, avocado, jojoba and eucalyptus oil.
When is it needed?
Some people may think that hoof dressings are purely for cosmetic purposes such as adding shine for shows and presentations. However, they can also be a moisture-locking barrier than can keep hooves in optimal condition all year round. The following conditions might make a hoof dressing needed;
- Hot weather – Dry and arid conditions can dry out hooves and make them more prone to brittleness and cracking
- Wet conditions – Prolonged exposure to wet conditions can soften hooves, which in turn can make them more susceptible to bacterial infections such as thrush.
- After trimming and shoeing – Applying a dressing after trimming or shoeing can help to seal and protect the newly exposed areas.
- Damaged hooves – If your horse has any issues like cracks, chips or small injuries, a dressing can help provide support.
Why is it important?
There are many benefits to using a hoof dressing, and keeping your horses’ hooves in top condition is paramount to ensuring they are comfortable and the hoof functions correctly. These benefits include;
- Barrier – Hoof dressings can provide a protective layer against external environmental factors such as excessive moisture or very dry conditions.
- Moisture balance – In a similar vein, dressings can help to maintain the correct moisture balance, reducing the risk of hooves becoming too dry or too soft.
- Nourishment – The natural oils in our Healthy Hoof Dressing provide nutrients that support growth and strength
- Flexibility – Hooves with correct moisture levels are more flexible, reducing the risk of cracks and breaks.
Having a dressing available in your grooming box is a cost-effective way to ensure that you have support handy all year-round and to help with any issues that might arise.
Ashlee 5*
“Good volume of product for a great price and love the fact it’s not only a hoof moisturiser but antibacterial too ! Fab product”
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