What is a barefoot diet?

Strictly speaking, any diet fed to an unshod horse could be termed a ‘barefoot diet’, but the term generally refers to a natural feeding approach that supports strong hooves.

 

A barefoot diet focuses on low sugar, low starch and balanced nutrients. Good hoof growth is best supported by quality protein, mineral richness, and omega oils; therefore, the diet is usually based on quality forage and forage-based feeds.

 

Utilising legume forages—such as lucerne (Organic Lucie Pellets) and sainfoin (Sainfoin Pellets)—is recommended alongside linseed and seaweed. These can be purchased as 'straights' (Pure Ocean Seaweedand Instant Linseed) or as part of a pre-prepared forage balancer, such as Total Eclipseor Simple Balance +.

 

If you are looking for a barefoot diet for your horses, we suggest speaking to an equine nutritionist for the most appropriate feeding suggestions. Simple System's experience Feed Line team are available to offer free advice on 01728 604 008.