Club foot in horses can be a surprising challenge for horse owners, yet it’s more common than many realize. 

This unique hoof condition affects how a horse stands, walks, and even how they feel day-to-day. 

Understanding what club foot is, why it happens, and how to manage it can make all the difference in a horse’s quality of life. 

Whether you’re a first-time horse owner or have a seasoned stable, learning about club foot horse may just open your eyes to the hidden resilience of horses facing this condition.

What is Club Foot in Horses?

Club foot in horses is a condition where one or both front hooves have an abnormally steep angle. 

Normally, the hoof wall should grow at around 45–55 degrees. In club foot, the angle increases, sometimes sharply, creating a more upright hoof. 

This shape change happens because the deep digital flexor tendon, which runs along the back of the leg, becomes too tight or contracted. 

When the tendon pulls too strongly, it forces the hoof to grow with a higher angle.

Club foot often develops due to a genetic predisposition or imbalanced growth during a young horse’s development. 

Over time, the abnormal hoof shape puts extra strain on the joints and bones, especially in the leg.

Proper care can help manage club foot, improving the horse’s comfort and mobility.

Club Foot in Foals

Club foot in foals is a developmental condition where one or both front hooves grow with a steeper, upright angle. 

This condition occurs due to tightness or contraction in the deep digital flexor tendon. This causes the hoof to become more upright rather than sloping naturally.

In young foals, club foot can often be traced back to genetic factors, uneven growth rates, or environmental influences.

In mild cases, a foal’s club foot may appear as a subtle elevation in the heel. In severe cases, there may be more drastic hoof angles and even lameness.

Early detection is important, as untreated club foot can lead to chronic discomfort and joint strain as the foal grows.

How to Classify Club Foot Horse

Club foot in horses is classified into four grades based on the severity of the hoof angle and deformity. 

Each grade represents an increasing level of contraction in the deep digital flexor tendon and associated changes in the hoof structure.

Grade 1 club foot

This is the mildest form, where the hoof angle is only slightly steeper than normal. 

At this stage, the hoof may show mild heel contraction, but the horse can move comfortably without signs of lameness. 

Grade 1 club foot can often be managed with regular corrective trimming to maintain hoof balance and prevent further progression. 

This early grade allows for a good prognosis if handled with proper care.

Grade 2 club foot 

In grade 2, there’s a more noticeable steepness in the hoof angle. 

The heel becomes more elevated, making the condition visually apparent even to a non-expert. 

Horses with Grade 2 club foot may start to show a slightly shortened stride or signs of discomfort when moving. 

Treatment often involves consistent corrective trimming and, in some cases, therapeutic shoeing.

Grade 3 club foot

Grade 3 is more severe. It presents with a significant upright angle in the hoof and more pronounced heel contraction. 

Horses with Grade 3 club foot may experience a visibly shortened stride, and mild lameness.

At this stage, the hoof angle can lead to more strain on the tendons, requiring aggressive trimming, therapeutic shoeing, and sometimes surgical intervention. 

Grade 4 club foot 

This is the most severe form, where the hoof angle is highly upright, and the hoof itself may appear boxy or deformed. 

Horses with Grade 4 club foot experience persistent lameness and significant discomfort, limiting their movement and quality of life. 

Intensive management, including surgical intervention, is often necessary to provide relief and improve mobility. 

What Causes a Club Foot?

Club foot in horses is caused by a combination of genetic, developmental, and environmental factors that affect the structure and growth of the hoof and tendons. 

Here’s a look at some common causes:

1. Genetics

Club foot is often hereditary, passed down from parent to offspring. 

Horses with a family history of the condition may be more likely to develop club foot. 

Breeds that naturally grow quickly or have specific body types may also show a higher incidence.

2. Uneven growth rates in young horses

In foals, uneven growth between bones and tendons can lead to club foot. 

For example, if the bones in the limb grow faster than the tendons can stretch, the deep digital flexor tendon becomes tight, pulling the hoof into a steeper angle. 

This disparity in growth is most common in young, rapidly growing horses and can lead to the formation of club foot.

3. Environmental factors and nutrition

Environmental conditions, including diet, play a significant role. 

Foals that are overfed or given diets too high in protein or energy may grow faster than their tendons can keep up with.

Additionally, poor hoof care, such as infrequent trimming, can worsen the condition by allowing the hoof to grow in a more upright, contracted position.

4. Trauma or injury

Injury to the limb or hoof can cause scarring or shortening of the tendons, leading to club foot. 

Trauma, such as fractures or tendon injuries, can alter the way the horse bears weight, sometimes resulting in an abnormal hoof angle.

5. Conformational issues

Certain conformational traits, such as a long neck or a steep shoulder angle, can put extra stress on the limbs and hooves.

The way a horse’s body is structured influences how forces are distributed across the limbs, which can contribute to club foot in some cases.

Symptoms of Club Foot in Horses

The symptoms of club foot in horses vary based on the severity of the condition. Here’s what to look for:

1. Upright hoof angle

The most noticeable symptom of club foot is a steeper-than-normal angle of the hoof. 

The affected hoof stands more upright, with the heel being higher than usual. 

In severe cases, the hoof may appear almost box-like or deformed.

2. Contracted heels

Club foot often causes the heels to contract or grow inward. 

This makes the hoof look narrower, with the heels appearing more pinched or close together. 

This contracted shape often exacerbates discomfort and limits the hoof’s ability to flex.

3. Elevated heel

Horses with club foot often have an elevated heel, which causes the hoof to bear weight more on the toe than the heel. 

Over time, this uneven weight distribution can lead to additional structural issues in the hoof and leg.

4. Shortened stride

Due to the tendon tightness associated with club foot, affected horses have a shortened stride. 

The condition limits how far they can extend their legs, which affects their overall movement. 

Horses may appear stiff, especially when moving on hard ground.

5. Lameness and discomfort

In more severe cases, club foot can lead to lameness. 

This is especially true when the abnormal hoof shape causes additional stress on the tendons, joints, and bones. 

Horses may show signs of discomfort when walking or exercising, sometimes even shifting weight off the affected limb when standing.

6. Uneven wear on the hoof

Due to the abnormal hoof angle, club foot often results in uneven wear patterns on the hoof. 

The toe might wear down more quickly, while the heel remains higher, creating an uneven surface that worsens over time without proper trimming.

7. Growth rings on the hoof

Horses with club foot may show abnormal growth rings on the affected hoof, often spaced unevenly. 

These rings result from changes in weight distribution and pressure, which impact hoof growth and structure.

How to Diagnose Club Foot in a Horse

Here’s a step-by-step look at how veterinarians diagnose club foot:

1. Physical examination

A veterinarian begins with a physical examination to assess the angle of the affected hoof. 

They’ll compare it to the normal hoof angle (around 45–55 degrees) and look for a steeper, more upright appearance. 

During this examination, the vet will also check for signs of heel contraction, elevated heels, and any abnormal hoof growth patterns.

2. Observation of movement

Observing the horse’s movement helps identify the impact of club foot on gait and stride length. 

A shortened or stiff stride, especially in one limb, can indicate club foot. 

The veterinarian may ask the horse to walk or trot on a flat surface to evaluate how the condition affects weight distribution and movement.

3. Assessing flexor tendon tension

In club foot cases, the deep digital flexor tendon often becomes tight or contracted, causing the hoof to pull into an upright position. 

Veterinarians check the tension in the tendon by feeling along the back of the leg. 

If the tendon feels unusually tight or firm, it could indicate club foot, particularly if accompanied by other symptoms.

4. Radiographs (X-rays)

Radiographs are critical for diagnosing the severity of club foot. 

X-rays provide detailed images of the internal hoof structure, including the bones, joints, and tendons. 

They reveal any rotation of the coffin bone, a key indicator of severe club foot. 

Radiographs also help determine the degree of heel elevation and assess how much the hoof angle has deviated from the norm.

5. Grading the severity

Based on the physical exam and X-rays, the veterinarian assigns a grade to the club foot (ranging from Grade 1 to Grade 4). 

This classification system helps guide treatment decisions and provides insight into the prognosis for the affected horse.

How to Treat Club Foot in Horses

Treating club foot in horses requires a blend of consistent hoof care, targeted therapy, and sometimes, specialized treatment. 

Here’s a look at the most effective methods:

1. Corrective trimming and shoeing

Skilled trimming helps gently reshape the hoof over time. 

A good farrier will work gradually, lowering the heel bit by bit to reduce strain on the tendons. 

This process, though slow, often brings big relief.

Specially designed shoes, like wedge shoes can also be used to support the hoof and help balance weight more evenly. 

They work to ease pressure on joints and tendons, allowing the horse to move more naturally.

2. Physical therapy and stretching

Physical therapy can make a real difference, especially for young horses. 

Controlled exercises, like gentle walks on soft ground, encourage tendons to stretch in a safe way. 

With consistent therapy, many horses find more comfort in their stride.

3. Medication

In cases of discomfort, anti-inflammatory medications help ease pain and swelling. 

These don’t treat the hoof itself but provide relief, letting other treatments work more effectively.

4. Surgical intervention

For more serious cases, surgery might be the best option. 

A common surgery, called check ligament desmotomy, helps reduce tension on the tendon, allowing the hoof to relax into a better position. 

Surgery isn’t taken lightly, but it can be life-changing for horses with severe club foot.

5. Ongoing hoof care and monitoring

Horses with club foot benefit from regular, careful monitoring for life. 

A farrier and vet can keep the hoof in shape and address any changes over time. 

Ongoing care ensures stability and comfort, letting horses enjoy a more active life.

Prognosis of Club Foot

The prognosis for club foot in horses depends on the severity of the condition, the age of the horse, and the timeliness of treatment. 

Horses diagnosed with mild club foot (Grades 1 and 2) generally have a favorable prognosis. 

With regular trimming and corrective shoeing, around 70–80% of these horses can live comfortable, active lives. 

They may even participate in light work or competitive riding without much difficulty. 

For more severe cases, such as Grade 3 club foot, the prognosis is more guarded. 

Horses with this level of severity may experience discomfort and limited movement.

Approximately 50–60% of horses with Grade 3 club foot respond well to treatment and can lead comfortable lives with restricted activities. 

These horses may not be suitable for intense athletic use, but they often manage well in lighter, controlled work.

In cases of Grade 4 club foot, the prognosis becomes more challenging. 

This severe condition often causes chronic pain, lameness, and joint stress, which can impact a horse’s mobility long-term. 

Surgical intervention, such as check ligament desmotomy, can improve comfort and movement, but outcomes vary. 

Around 30–40% of horses with Grade 4 club foot find significant relief after surgery and can enjoy a reasonable quality of life with limited activities. 

Overall, early diagnosis and intervention improve the chances of a positive outcome. 

With the right care, many horses with club foot can still lead fulfilling lives.

How to Manage a Horse with Club Foot

Managing a horse with club foot takes consistent hoof care, gentle exercise, and attentive monitoring. 

Regular trimming by a skilled farrier, ideally every 4–6 weeks, helps balance the hoof and gradually reduce heel height. 

Therapeutic shoes, like wedge or bar shoes, are also beneficial. They distribute weight more evenly and reduce pressure on tendons, making movement easier for your horse. 

Light exercise on soft ground, such as walking, keeps tendons flexible without overloading them. 

Avoid hard, high-impact activities that might worsen the condition. 

Gentle stretching exercises, as advised by a vet, can also improve movement and help your horse stay active.

Regular vet check-ups are essential for monitoring any changes. 

They allow adjustments to trimming or shoeing if needed, and anti-inflammatory medication may be given to relieve discomfort. 

Nutrition plays a role too. A balanced diet rich in calcium, phosphorus, and biotin supports hoof health. 

Choose soft, even surfaces for exercise, as rocky or uneven ground can cause pain. 

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to release tendon tension. 

With thoughtful, consistent care, many horses with club foot can live comfortably and stay active.

Can Horses With Club Foot be Ridden?

Yes, horses with club foot can often be ridden. However, it depends on the severity of the condition and how well it is managed. 

For horses with mild to moderate club foot, regular trimming and therapeutic shoeing usually help maintain comfort.

However, horses with severe club foot may have limitations due to discomfort or lameness, even with treatment. 

Consistent care, including corrective trimming, gentle exercise, and vet check-ups, is essential to prevent strain and reduce pain. 

To ensure a safe riding experience, consult a veterinarian for a personalized care plan. 

Famous Horses with Club Feet

Several famous horses with club feet have made remarkable achievements despite their condition.

Here are a few:

1. Secretariat 

Secretariat, one of the greatest racehorses of all time, reportedly had a mild form of club foot. 

His condition was managed with regular trimming and specialized shoeing.

2. Big Brown 

Known for winning the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes in 2008, Big Brown had a club foot that required specialized farrier work. 

Despite this, he displayed incredible speed and strength, proving that even high-performance racehorses can manage this condition with the right care.

3. Snowman 

The famous show jumper Snowman, who went from being a plow horse to a champion, had a club foot. 

His owner, Harry de Leyer, managed his hoof care, enabling Snowman to win numerous show jumping competitions in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

4. Hickstead 

The renowned show jumper Hickstead also had a club foot. 

With expert hoof care and management, Hickstead went on to win an Olympic gold medal in 2008.

Conclusion

Club foot may seem like a big challenge, but with the right care, horses can live comfortably and even excel. 

From regular trimming to thoughtful exercise, managing club foot is about giving these horses the attention they deserve. 

Some of the world’s greatest horses had club foot, yet they went on to achieve legendary status. 

So, don’t let this condition define a horse’s future. With patience and proper care, they can still lead active, fulfilling lives. 

A little extra support can make all the difference for these resilient animals.