Promoting Hoof Growth: How to Help Horse Hooves Grow Healthily and Quickly

Healthy hoof growth is essential for strong, resilient, and long-term healthy horse hooves. It not only supports the regeneration of damaged hoof areas but also enables a lasting correction of hoof shape and alignment. To promote hoof growth, it is important to ensure sufficient exercise on suitable surfaces and to use appropriate hoof care products.

Why promote hoof growth in horses?

Ratio of wear to growth

In horses without hoof protection, the hooves are subject to natural wear and tear. In the wild, this wear is usually balanced by hoof growth, so wild horses do not require specific hoof care. Human use of horses can result in wear exceeding the rate at which the hoof horn regrows. 

This balance can easily be disrupted, especially in horses with slow hoof growth. If a horse’s hooves are worn down too much, it can quickly lead to sensitivity or lameness, which causes pain for the horse. In this case, hoof protection should be considered urgently, keeping in mind that there must still be sufficient hoof wall remaining for a nailed shoe. 

Following injuries and hoof diseases

However, healthy hoof growth is not solely determined by natural wear and tear in unshod horses. Damage to the hoof generally leads to reduced stability and increases susceptibility to further problems. 

Defects in the hoof wall, such as chips, hollow walls, cracks in the horn, or cracks, as well as hoof abscesses provide an increased surface area for putrefactive processes. In such cases, vigorous hoof growth is all the more important so that the hoof can regain its physiological shape and load-bearing capacity as quickly as possible. This is particularly true when large portions of the hoof had to be removed during treatment or surgery.

How does a horse's hoof grow? 

The natural growth process

Cells known as keratinocytes are continuously produced in the coronal lamina at the coronet band. During keratinization, the keratinocytes migrate from the deeper cell layer toward the surface and begin to produce keratin. Keratin is the structural protein and main component of the horn and is incorporated into the cells during this process. Over time, the cells die and become horn cells. Due to the continuous production of horn cells, the growth rate is 6–10 mm per month, depending on individual factors. 

Factors for healthy horn growth

Hoof growth is influenced by various factors. Blood circulation and nutrient supply play the most significant roles. The better the blood supply to the corium—especially the coronal corium—the more nutrients are delivered from the blood to the coronal band area, and the more metabolic processes such as cell division and keratin formation are stimulated. Exercise is the primary means of promoting blood circulation, as each step up and down creates a pumping action for the blood in the hoof area. 

In addition to blood circulation, the supply of nutrients is also crucial for growth. In particular, biotin (a coenzyme involved in metabolism, especially in keratin formation), zinc (an essential trace element for enzymes involved in horn formation), amino acids—especially methionine and cysteine (the main components of keratin)—as well as other macronutrients and trace elements such as copper, calcium, and selenium are required. 

In addition, hoof growth is influenced by breed, age, and season. Icelandic horses are a good example of this, as their hooves generally grow back more slowly than those of other breeds. The growth rate typically slows down with age and during the winter.

Accelerate hoof growth through proper feeding

Biotin - The Key to Hoof Quality

Biotin is a coenzyme involved in metabolism. This means that it works in conjunction with certain enzymes and is essential for their function. Biotin plays a key role in the metabolic processes necessary for the formation of keratin. Keratin, in turn, is the main component of hoof horn and is therefore essential for its quality and stability.

Studies show that targeted biotin supplementation can significantly improve the quality of horse hooves over the long term. Positive effects on the hardness and structure of the hoof horn are generally only observed after prolonged supplementation of about 8 to 15 months, which corresponds to the slow growth rate of the hoof horn.

Sulfur-containing amino acids

The sulfur-containing amino acid cysteine is a key component of the structural protein keratin. Keratin’s high stability—a crucial factor in the quality of the hoof horn—is due to disulfide bonds that form between the sulfur atoms of adjacent cysteine molecules. These bonds result in a strong cross-linking of the protein strands. The higher the cysteine content in keratin, the more disulfide bridges can form, making the horn harder, denser, and more resilient.

Methionine is also a sulfur-containing amino acid and serves as a precursor to cysteine. The body is capable of synthesizing cysteine from methionine. While cysteine can be obtained both from feed and produced by the body, methionine is an essential amino acid and must therefore be obtained from the diet.

In practice, the focus of feeding is often on ensuring an adequate supply of methionine, as this not only meets the animal’s immediate needs but also supports the body’s own production of cysteine. Methionine is found in alfalfa, brewer’s yeast, soybean meal, and flaxseed and sunflower seed cakes, among other sources. 

Trace elements for strong hooves

Zinc is involved in many enzymes required for the formation of DNA and proteins. As a result, it supports cell division and the maturation of keratin-producing cells in the hoof corium. Zinc also helps protect cells from oxidative stress. A zinc deficiency leads to the formation of less stable keratin—the hoof horn can become softer, grow more poorly, and break more easily.

Copper is important for the stability of the connective tissue in the hoof corium. It acts as a cofactor for enzymes that cross-link collagen and elastin fibers. This keeps the tissue strong and resilient. A copper deficiency can weaken these structures, which can compromise the stability of the hoof apparatus.

Important: The ratio of zinc to copper also plays a role. In equine nutrition, a ratio of about 3–5 : 1 is considered appropriate. Too much zinc can inhibit the absorption of copper in the intestine, while too little zinc can impair keratin formation. Good mineral supplements contain trace elements in both organic form (highly bioavailable) and inorganic form (stable and suitable for storage).

Mineral feed and dietary supplements

When selecting the right mineral supplement to promote hoof growth, in addition to the components mentioned above—such as biotin, methionine, copper, and zinc—manganese and selenium are also important for supporting cellular metabolism and antioxidant processes, as is protein in general, which serves as the building block for all structural proteins. 

It is also important to maintain a zinc-to-copper ratio of 4:1 to 5:1 and to ensure the presence of both organic (e.g., zinc methionine) and inorganic compounds (e.g., zinc oxide). In addition, the overall diet, the region, soil quality, and the animal’s health status are critical factors. Ideally, supplementation should be tailored based on a hay analysis and a blood test.

Promote blood circulation for better growth

Movement as a foundation

Blood flow to the dermis is essential for healthy hoof growth, as it ensures that keratinocytes receive a sufficient supply of oxygen and nutrients. The better the blood flow, the more optimal the supply, the more active cellular metabolism becomes, and the more intense cell division is—all of which have a positive effect on horn growth.

The hoof mechanism, which is activated with every step, plays a key role in this process. Through the alternating pressure and release, the hoof acts like a pump: Blood is transported from the hoof area toward the heart and then returned to the capillaries of the dermis.

To promote blood circulation as effectively as possible, regular exercise of about one to two hours daily . Different surfaces, such as sand or grass, further support the physiological function of the hoof mechanism. Exercise on stony surfaces, such as gravel, is only advisable for the purpose of promoting growth when combined with hoof protection, as otherwise the rate of wear may exceed the rate of horn regrowth.

Movement in the gait offers the advantage, particularly for damaged hooves, of reducing pressure peaks on the hoof horn while still effectively stimulating blood circulation.

Crown Edge Massage with Laurel Oil

Laurel oil ointments promote blood circulation thanks to their essential oils and fatty acids, which stimulate the skin. In addition, the massage itself stimulates blood flow through mechanical stimulation.

Important: Do not use pure bay leaf oil, as it can irritate the skin. Do not use this massage on wounds or open sores (burning sensation, skin reactions).

Directions: Apply a small amount of ointment from the coronet band to the hoof walls, then massage the coronet band with your fingertips using circular motions and light pressure. Frequency: 2–3 times a week; daily for problem hooves.

The Keralit Laurel Ointment contains 20% pure laurel oil in a skin-friendly formulation. Its water-soluble base supports the hoof’s moisture balance and elasticity—it can also be applied to wet hooves. Pure laurel oil, on the other hand, can seal the hoof and impair its natural moisture balance.

Care and Management for Optimal Growth

Daily Hoof Care

The primary purpose of daily hoof care is to keep the existing horn in the best possible condition. If the lower part of the hoof develops cracks or begins to rot, this can result in more horn being damaged than is regrowing at the same time. Therefore, daily, thorough cleaning of the hooves and the regular use of appropriate care products are particularly important.

To protect the lower part of the horn from chipping and rot, we recommend use of Keralit Strengthener one to three times a week, depending on the condition of the hoof. If you also want to support moisture balance and improve the elasticity of the horn, we recommend applying Keralit Hoof Elast two to three times a week.

Hoof care and shoeing

In addition to daily hoof care, regular and professional hoof trimming is also of great importance. The expertise of an experienced professional is crucial for achieving the most correct hoof conformation possible, determining the appropriate trimming interval in relation to hoof growth, and providing the horse owner with competent advice on whether or not to shoe the horse.

Proper hoof conformation is essential for a well-functioning hoof mechanism, as well as for even weight distribution and optimal blood flow to the corium. Generally speaking, the hoof mechanism is more pronounced in unshod horses. However, this is only beneficial if the hooves can withstand the natural wear and tear of being barefoot over the long term.

Although the hoof mechanism is still present to a lesser extent when the shoe is properly fitted, blood circulation is maintained, and the hoof horn is simultaneously protected from excessive wear. Therefore, a professional and individualized assessment is always necessary.

Barn Hygiene and Animal Care

Stable hygiene and housing conditions always play a central role in hoof health, regardless of any specific measures taken to promote hoof growth. As with daily hoof care, the goal here is to keep the existing hoof horn in the best possible condition. This means preventing rot, cracks, and excessive wear.

This requires dry, clean, and hygienic stables, as well as properly maintained paddocks. In addition, the ground—especially for barefoot horses—should not be permanently too hard or heavily stony, as this would significantly increase hoof wear.

Seasonal influences on hoof growth: Summer vs. Winter

Hoof growth, or the growth rate, also varies throughout the year. The growth rate is higher in the summer, while it slows down in the winter. This is due to various factors. 

One of these factors is temperature, as blood vessels dilate at higher temperatures, resulting in increased blood flow to the hoof corium. In addition, many horses are more active in the summer due to increased time spent grazing. Nutrition also plays a key role, as fresh pasture grass contains more biotin, sulfur-containing amino acids, trace elements, and vitamins. Furthermore, increased daylight in the summer leads to higher levels of the hormone prolactin, which regulates skin, hair, and hoof growth. Higher prolactin concentrations are associated with increased horn formation. Studies confirm this seasonal difference in growth. 

Solutions for Poor Growth

Diagnosis of the causes

The most common cause of poor hoof growth is an inadequate supply of nutrients. In particular, an imbalance between zinc and copper can significantly impair horn formation. However, in addition to diet, genetics also play a role. Hardy breeds such as Icelandic or Fjord horses often have a slower metabolism and, as a result, a lower hoof growth rate.

Metabolic disorders can also negatively affect hoof growth. Equine metabolic syndrome and Cushing’s syndrome can cause metabolic changes that affect horn formation, among other things. In addition, liver stress can result in insufficient levels of essential trace elements and proteins.

Similarly, age, pregnancy, and lactation can slow hoof growth. Older horses often have a slower overall metabolism, while pregnant or lactating mares require many nutrients to support the foal or to produce milk.

What to do if the hooves aren't growing enough? Special measures

For horses with slow hoof growth, it is especially important to protect their hooves from excessive wear. Depending on the individual situation, this can be achieved through the use of hoof boots, properly fitted shoes, or suitable ground conditions.

If the cause is a slowed metabolism—whether due to age, breed, or a metabolic disorder—the primary focus should be on ensuring that minerals are as easily absorbed as possible. Organically bound trace elements are often better suited for this purpose, as they are generally absorbed and utilized more efficiently by the body.

In addition, measures that support metabolism can be helpful in improving hoof growth. These include:

• a low-sugar diet

• a tailored ration calculation based on a hay analysis 

• a well-coordinated parasite management program

• Using appropriate herbs to support liver function and metabolism

For conditions such as equine metabolic syndrome or Cushing’s syndrome, treatment should always be supervised by a veterinarian. In the case of Cushing’s syndrome, medication with Prascend may be necessary.

Keralit for optimal hoof growth

Product Recommendations

With the right hoof care products, you can specifically support hoof growth.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions About Hoof Growth

How fast do horses' hooves usually grow?

A horse's hoof grows 6–10 mm per month, depending on the breed, age, and metabolic condition.

How long does it take to see improvements?

If appropriate measures—such as promoting blood circulation and ensuring an optimal supply of nutrients—are implemented, cell activity and the growth rate improve within 2–6 weeks. The first visible changes at the coronal margin appear after 4–8 weeks. The new horn often has a different color or texture. Over time, more and more of the new horn becomes visible until it reaches the free edge after approximately 12 months.

What home remedies can help promote hoof growth?

Massaging the coronet band with an ointment containing laurel oil can stimulate blood circulation and thus promote hoof growth. However, it is important to note that pure laurel oil can seal the hoof and disrupt its moisture balance. Therefore, it is better to use a water-soluble product containing laurel oil. Apple cider vinegar can inhibit decay, but its effect is rather limited compared to specialized care products and is therefore often insufficient. 

What should you do if your child has a genetic growth disorder?

Even in cases of genetically determined slow or limited hoof growth, targeted measures can lead to improvement within the limits of what is naturally possible. These include providing a diet and minerals tailored to the horse’s needs with high bioavailability, varied and sufficient exercise, regular access to pasture, professional hoof care, consistent daily grooming, and the use of appropriate care products.