Should horses hooves have a break from being shod

Should horses hooves have a break from being shod

James Mundell DipWCF 
Registered Farrier who considers the 'individual' equine. Working with new and tradtional techniques from competition horses to donkeys including all remedial care answers your questions on Hoof Care 

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Question:
I am a happy hacker so my horse is shod year round however, I am concerned this is too much. Should horses hooves have a break from being shod and if so how long? 
B. Jones  Newcastle 

James Answers:
A real break from shoeing would be eight to twelve months as this is the length of time it takes for the entire hoof to grow out and be replaced with new horn. Very few horse owners can afford this time off from shoeing.  A break for one shoeing cycle can be beneficial if your horse has good quality feet but this is not such a good idea for horses that have poor horn quality because when you remove the shoes,  the feet tend to get worse before they get better. So you may find you come to your next appointment and your farrier cant get the shoes back on.

Well placed nails do not damage the feet and it is not essential you have a break from shoeing  unless the condition of the feet means your farrier recommends it. Keeping your horses feet strong and healthy  with a balanced diet, good  management, daily care such as picking out the hooves and not leaving shoes on too long will help keep your horses feet in good condition.
Chat to your farrier about it, perhaps you ride less in the darker winter months and your horses feet will cope with the lightened work load barefoot, take his professional opinion into account as he will know your horses feet.