DIY Horse Hoof Oil

DIY Recipes for Healthy Hooves

Healthy hooves – healthy horse! A horse’s hooves may carry its weight, but they are also sensitive to moisture, dryness, bacteria, and the way they are kept. Whether in summer on dry ground or in autumn with mud and dampness – the right hoof care protects, strengthens, and supports the natural hoof mechanism.

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of hoof care:

• What hoof oil really does

• How to make your own hoof oil for horses – depending on hoof condition

• Which type of care makes sense and when

The right way to use hoof oil

Hoof oil is not a miracle cure – but it can certainly provide support. It helps to seal in moisture (although it does not supply any itself), keeps the outer horn layer supple, and protects the hoof wall from drying out and cracking. With a carefully chosen blend, it may even have antibacterial properties and further promote hoof health.

Important points to keep in mind when applying hoof oil:

• Use hoof oil only on dry hooves or directly after a water bath.

• For hooves that are persistently wet, soft or decaying, oil is usually unsuitable.

DIY hoof oil for dry hooves

For about 100 ml of homemade hoof oil for horses, you´ll need:

Ingredient	Effect
50 ml olive oil or sunflower oil	serves as the base, nourishing and softening
30 ml laurel oil (or laurel oil macerate)	stimulates circulation and supports horn growth
10 ml almond oil or jojoba oil	provides gentle care and absorbs well
5–10 drops lavender oil	antibacterial and calming
Optional 1 tsp beeswax	for a thicker consistency

Preparation – step by step

1. Combine all the oils in a clean glass bottle or small pan.

2. Stir well or shake to mix.

3. Seal airtight and store in a dark place, away from light.

4. Shelf life: about 3–4 weeks.

   
   

Application

• Apply to clean, slightly damp hooves (coronary band, wall, and if needed the sole).

• Use 1–3 times per week, depending on the condition.

• Do not use on softened or greasy hooves.

  
  

DIY hoof care for bacterial issues

Thrush is caused by bacteria and requires drying, germ-inhibiting treatments – never apply oils to a soft hoof!

For about 100 ml of hoof care you will need:

Ingredient	Effect
50 ml apple cider vinegar	disinfecting, germ-inhibiting
50 ml strong black tea	astringent (tannins)
10–15 drops tea tree oil	antibacterial, antifungal
Optional 1 tsp healing clay	drying, absorbent

Preparation – step by step

1. Mix all ingredients in a clean glass bottle or small jar.

2. Stir well or shake to combine.

3. Seal airtight and store in a dark place, away from light.

4. Shelf life: about 3–4 weeks.

Application

• Apply daily to the frog with a brush or cloth, targeting the affected area.

• Use only on a clean, dry hoof.

• Do not use as a spray – apply locally and precisely.

• Never use oils on thrush – they seal the environment and encourage decay!

Overview of hoof care

Condition	Care	Application
Dry, cracked hooves	use hoof oil	apply after a water bath to retain moisture
Moist, soft hooves	avoid oils	allow the hoof to dry thoroughly, optionally use a herbal tincture
Thrush	apply apple cider vinegar/tea tree mix	use locally and precisely
Normal care	lightly oil or brush 1–2 times per week	apply on clean, dry hoof

Important notes

• Never apply oil to wet, greasy or decaying hooves.

• Laurel oil may cause irritation in sensitive horses – always test first.

• Do not apply oil into open cracks or onto wounds.

• In cases of strong odour or open thrush, always consult a vet!

Conclusion – hoof care the natural way

Whether dealing with dry hooves, maintaining overall health, or giving extra support in cases of thrush – with the right natural remedies you can help your horse keep hooves that are healthy and strong. And as always: less is often more – especially when it comes to oil.

FAQ?!  – Homemade Hoof Oil for Horses

When should you use hoof oil on a horse?

Only on dry, clean hooves or after a water bath, to help lock in moisture.

Can you make hoof oil yourself?

Yes – with simple ingredients such as olive oil, laurel oil or almond oil you can create a natural hoof oil, tailored to the condition of the hoof.

Which hoof oil helps with thrush?

None – oils are unsuitable for thrush. Instead, mixtures of apple cider vinegar, strong black tea and tea tree oil are effective, as they have germ-inhibiting and drying properties.

How often should you oil a horse’s hooves?

As a rule, 1–3 times per week, depending on the weather, stabling conditions and the state of the hooves. Pause if the hooves are damp or soft.