Bar shoes have been used for horses for many years to provide additional support and protection for the hooves. They are a popular choice for horses that need extra stability or are recovering from injuries or conditions that affect their hooves. Bar shoes are named after their unique design that extends the shoe’s support around the back of the hoof wall, creating a “bar” that runs parallel to the frog.

Why Do Horses Need Bar Shoes?

Horses need bar shoes for several reasons. One of the main reasons is to provide additional support to the horse’s hooves. Bar shoes can help horses with various hoof conditions, such as laminitis, navicular syndrome, and hoof cracks. These conditions can be very painful for horses and can lead to lameness if not appropriately addressed.

Bar shoes can also help protect the horse’s hooves from excessive wear and tear. Horses that perform high-intensity activities such as jumping, racing, or cutting can experience wear and tear on their hooves. Bar shoes can help reduce the impact on the hooves and provide additional support to help prevent injury and reduce the risk of lameness.

Do Horse Bar Shoes Hurt Horses?

Bar shoes, when correctly fitted and applied, should not hurt horses. However, if the shoes are not correctly fitted, it can cause discomfort and pain to the horse. It is crucial to have a professional farrier who is experienced in fitting bar shoes to ensure that the shoes are applied correctly and comfortably for the horse.

It is also essential to consider the type of bar shoe being used. Each type of bar shoe is designed for specific purposes, and the farrier must choose the appropriate shoe for the horse’s needs. The weight and thickness of the bar shoe must be considered to ensure it does not cause discomfort or pain to the horse.

Types of Bar Shoes

Egg bar shoes for horses

Egg bar shoes are horseshoes with an egg-shaped design, with a rounded back and a tapered front. They are used to provide additional support and stability to the horse’s hoof. The egg bar design helps distribute weight evenly across the hoof and can be used to treat a variety of hoof conditions, such as laminitis, navicular syndrome, and hoof cracks.

Heart bar shoes for horses

Heart bar shoes are horseshoes with a heart-shaped design, which provides additional support and protection to the horse’s hoof. The heart bar design helps reduce the pressure on the frog, which can be beneficial for horses with damaged or injured frogs. It can also help support the horse’s heel and is often used to treat hoof conditions such as laminitis, navicular syndrome, and hoof cracks.

Straight bar shoes for horses

Straight bar shoes are horseshoes with a straight design, with a slight curve at the toe. They are used to provide additional support and protection to the horse’s hooves. Straight bar shoes can be used to treat a variety of hoof conditions, such as laminitis, navicular syndrome, and hoof cracks.

Pros and Cons of Horseshoeing

Horseshoeing has its advantages and disadvantages, and it is essential to consider them before deciding whether or not to shoe a horse.

Pros

• Protection: Horseshoes provide protection to the horse’s hooves, reducing the risk of injuries and wear and tear.
• Support: Horseshoes can provide additional support to the horse’s hooves, reducing the risk of lameness and other hoof conditions.
• Performance: Horseshoes can improve a horse’s performance, especially for horses that perform high-intensity activities such as jumping, racing, or cutting.
• Durability: Horseshoes can last for several weeks or months, depending on the horse’s activity level and the type of shoe used.

Cons

• Cost: Horseshoeing can be costly, with the cost of horseshoes and farrier services adding up over time.
• Maintenance: Horseshoes require maintenance, including regular trimming and resetting, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
• Reduced circulation: Horseshoes can reduce blood flow to the horse’s hooves, which can be harmful if left on for extended periods.
• Infections: Horseshoes can increase the risk of infections, especially if they are not correctly fitted or maintained.

Conclusion

Bar shoes can be beneficial for horses that require additional support and protection for their hooves. The type of bar shoe used will depend on the horse’s needs, and it is essential to have a professional farrier who is experienced in fitting bar shoes to ensure they are applied correctly and comfortably for the horse. Horseshoeing has its advantages and disadvantages, and it is essential to consider them before deciding whether or not to shoe a horse. With proper care and maintenance, bar shoes can help keep horses healthy, comfortable, and performing at their best.