Strong, resilient hooves and claws depend on balanced nutrition, healthy circulation, connective tissue integrity, and overall metabolic wellbeing. Environmental conditions, workload, diet, seasonal changes, and underlying imbalance can all influence hoof and claw quality. These herbs are traditionally used to support normal horn growth, maintain structural strength, and promote healthy circulation to the extremities in both horses and dogs.
Healthy hooves and claws rely on strong keratin structures and well-supported connective tissues.
• Horsetail – Naturally rich in silica, traditionally used to support connective tissue strength and horn quality.
• Nettle – Nutrient-dense herb supporting normal tissue integrity and mineral balance.
• Seaweed – Provides trace minerals that support hoof and claw structure.
• Brewers Yeast – Source of B vitamins to support horn growth and overall condition.
• Comfrey – Traditionally used to support connective tissue health (external use).
• Rose – Traditionally included to support tissue tone and integrity.
Healthy blood flow to the extremities is essential for maintaining normal hoof and claw growth.
• Ginkgo – Traditionally used to support healthy circulation.
• Hawthorn – Supports cardiovascular function and peripheral circulation.
• Rosemary – Traditionally used to support circulation and antioxidant balance.
• Mint – Traditionally included to support overall vitality and circulation.
Metabolic balance plays a key role in hoof and claw condition, particularly in horses prone to foot sensitivity.
• Milk Thistle – Traditionally used to support normal liver function and metabolic balance.
• Nettle – Supports mineral balance and healthy blood function.
• Seaweed – Provides mineral support for metabolic processes.
• Brewers Yeast – Supports digestive efficiency and nutrient absorption.
These herbs are traditionally included to support normal inflammatory balance and tissue comfort.
• Meadowsweet – Traditionally used to support joint and tissue comfort.
• Liquorice – Traditionally included to support normal inflammatory balance.
• Clivers (Cleavers) – Supports lymphatic flow and fluid balance.
Healthy hooves and claws depend on efficient digestion and nutrient uptake.
• Brewers Yeast – Supports beneficial gut flora and nutrient absorption.
• Mint – Supports digestive efficiency and appetite.
• Bentonite – Traditionally used to support gut balance and natural elimination processes.
For horses:
• Brittle or cracked hooves
• Slow horn growth
• Seasonal hoof sensitivity
• Poor hoof wall quality
• Changes in pasture or workload
For dogs:
• Brittle or splitting claws
• Weak claw structure
• Excessive wear
• Poor coat and claw condition linked to diet
• Hoof and claw health is influenced by diet, environment, trimming, and overall management.
• Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new herbs, particularly for horses with metabolic conditions or dogs with underlying health concerns.
• Introduce herbs gradually and monitor individual tolerance.
• Herbal support should complement — not replace — appropriate farriery, grooming, nutrition, and veterinary care.
When used appropriately, these herbs can provide natural support for maintaining strong horn growth, healthy circulation, and overall hoof and claw resilience in horses and dogs.