Brittle, cracked hooves aren’t just frustrating—they can lead to pain, lameness, and difficulty holding shoes. Good hoof health starts with a balanced diet, good management and proper farrier care. But if you’re looking for a supplement to see if you can expedite the recovery of your horse’s hoof, let’s check this very popular and well reviewed supplements online.
I looked everywhere for recommendations and popularity, it looks like the products mentioned are the most trusted hoof supplements on the market—based on real-world results, and user feedback. (Although are they all really worth it?) Let’s review what research says that really works and check if this products actually have the necessary ingredients… so you can make the best choice for your horse.
Updated… I had a few horse owners emailing me about these other products that they wanted me to add to the list. After reviewing the ingredients and the reviews, and even though this one ist not as popular as the other ones, I decided to add one.
💡 Hoof health isn’t just about appearance—it’s about soundness, comfort, and overall health.
Top Reviewed Hoof Strengthening Supplements Compared
Here’s a closer look at the most popular and reviewed hoof supplements trusted by horse owners:
(If you use a different one, please mention it in the comments or email me! We are all eager to learn and maybe I could include it in the article)
- Farrier’s Formula Double Strength – by Life Data Labs
- SmartHoof Pellets – by SmartPak
- Hoof Biotin Powder – by Uckele
- Vermont Blend – by Custom Equine Nutrition
- Vita Biotin Crumbles – by Horse Health Products
- Horseshoer’s Secret – by Farnam
- Grand Hoof Pellets – by Grand Meadows
⭐ Farrier’s Formula Double Strength
Farrier’s Formula has been one of the most well-known supplements for hoof health for decades, this I believe is one of the most recommended by farriers and owners. I’ve personally seen dramatic improvements in horses on this formula.
It delivers 20 mg of biotin per serving, along with key nutrients like DL-methionine, zinc, copper, omega fatty acids, and lecithin—supporting stronger hoof walls, healthier soles and frogs, a better skin and coat, and strengthened connective tissues of the joints and ligaments.
⭐ Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars (450+ reviews on Amazon)
⭐ Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars (1,000+ reviews on SmartPak)
This formula is especially effective for horses who need help with hoof strength and growth. The large pellets are palatable for most horses. Most horses show visible hoof improvements after 4–6 months, but remember: a full hoof wall takes 8–12 months to grow. Stick with your supplement and routine consistently to see long-term results.
Safe for most horses, though not ideal for soy-sensitive horses. This is a highly acceptable, clean supplement for: hoof rehab and maintenance, barefoot horses, metabolically challenged horses and owners looking for minimal additives and functional nutrition.
There has been research done on this product. Read the research on Farrier’s Formula® Double Strength
- Form: Pellets
- Dose: ½ measuring cup (85g) daily per 1000 lbs of body weight
- Duration: 11 lb bag = 60 day supply for a 1000 lb horse
- Cost: $83.99 (~$1.40/day), $146.99 for 11 lb bucket (~$2.45/day)(prices are approximate)
- Ingredients: Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Soy Protein Concentrate, Lecithin, Yeast Culture Dehydrated, DL-Methionine, Biotin, Ascorbic Acid, Zinc Oxide, Basic Copper Chloride, Fenugreek Extract, Calcium Iodate.
Note: While slightly more expensive than basic powders, the complete profile of nutrients and consistent results make this one of the most trusted long-term hoof supplements available.
⭐ SmartHoof Pellets
I have not used SmartHoof Pellets personally, but I’m genuinely impressed by the company’s reputation, customer service, and ingredient transparency and research. Based on overwhelmingly positive reviews, I’ve ordered a SmartPak for my own horses to evaluate its long-term benefits.
This supplement includes 25 mg of biotin per serving—among the highest in this comparison—plus key nutrients like methionine, lysine, copper, zinc, fatty acids, and threonine. SmartPak also has Combo and Ultra presentations, that include different ingredients to give a more balanced approach and be used more as a ration balancer with added hoof support, rathen than just a Hoof Supplement.
⭐ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars (30+ reviews on Amazon)
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (725+ reviews on SmartPak)
It’s not 100% “clean” (due to the DDGS and vegetable oil), but it is far better than most mainstream hoof supplements that rely heavily on fillers, molasses, and low mineral levels.
- Pellet
- Dose: 1 scoop is equivalent to 30 grams.
- Duration: 3.8-lb Bucket (56-day supply), 7.6-lb Bucket (112-day supply), 15.2-lb Bucket (224-day supply)
- Cost: $55.74 ($1.00/day), $105.21 ($0.94/day), $194.68 ($0.87/day) (approximate)
- Ingredients: Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Corn Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles, DL-Methionine, L-Lysine, Biotin, Zinc Polysaccharide Complex, Copper Polysaccharide Complex, Magnesium Silicate, Lignin Sulfonate, L-Threonine, Gelatin, Heat Stabilized Rice Bran, Flaxseed Meal, Vegetable Oil, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6)
⭐ Uckele Hoof Biotin Powder
In August 2022, SmartPak acquired Uckele Health & Nutrition’s equine brand. The equine products formerly sold under the Uckele brand are now part of the SmartPak family, but… I believe that they are not selling the Uckele Hoof Biotin Powder. I have been looking everywhere in the SmartPak website and it does not show, maybe because they have their own hoof products. But you can still find it on Amazon or other suppliers.
This supplement includes 16 mg of biotin per serving— Beneficial for horses with cracked or soft hooves by encouraging growth of strong hoof tissue. It includes methionine and zinc, that promote protein production to encourage healthy skin, hair and hooves.
⭐ Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars (30+ reviews on Amazon)
This high-quality minimalist hoof supplement is ideal for horses with IR, PPID or laminitis risk. Also for owners trying to avoid soy, molasses and additives, and looking for targeted hoof growth or rehab support. It does not contain copper to balance zinc, it needs a ration balancer to be fed along with this.
- Powder
- Dose: 1 scoop is equivalent to 5 grams.
- Duration: 1.12-lb Tub (100-day supply)
- Cost: $32.95 ($0.32/day) (approximate)
- Ingredients: Zinc Methionine, Brewers Dried Yeast, Biotin, Natural Flavors, DL-Methionine.
⭐ Vermont Blend
I am glad I got horse owners emailing me about this product. Wow! This is a ration balancer formulated to balance grass hay, but has the extra ingredients included to help regenerate the hoof, in case of any issues. So, if you’re horse is on grass.. this could potentially be the only extra product to cover your horse’s needs unless you need added calories or Omegas 3 for performance. Best Sources For Omegas 3
This supplement includes 25 mg of biotin per serving—same as SmartHoof Pellets—but contains no added molasses, iron or soy. Helps hoof health, supports a vibrant coat, an improved topline, digestive support and increases the immune response. And this is achieved by providing a balanced diet, not by magic ingredients, which should be our main focus always.
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (25+ reviews on Custom Equine Nutrition)
This is a superior supplement exceptionally well-formulated, high-quality supplement — especially for hoof, metabolic, and overall cellular health. The ingredient list reflects a scientifically sound approach.
It suits all horses, including horses with IR, PPID, and laminitis history.
- Grounded
- Dose: 1/2 US measurement cup is equivalent to 4 oz. for a 1000lb horse.
- Duration: 7-lb Bag (28-day supply), 13.5-lb Bag (54-day supply), 25-lb Bag (100-day supply), 50-lb Bag (200-day supply)
- Cost: $40.00 ($1.42/day), $72.00 ($1.33/day). $110.00 ($1.1/day), $198.00 ($0.99/day) (approximate)
- Ingredients: Diamond V Yeast, postbiotic yeast fermentate, Salt, L-Lysine, Magnesium Oxide, DL-Methionine, Selenium Yeast, Copper Amino Acid Complex (organic copper), L-Threonine, Zinpro 120 (organic zinc), Biotin 2%, Organic Iodine
⭐ Vita Biotin Crumbles
This supplement includes 6.25 mg per serving. It is designed to help maintain healthy hoof growth and strong hoof walls, as well as benefiting the horse’s skin, coat and hooves. It was included in this list because of it’s high sucess in Amazon US and I found many owners recommending it.
Vita Biotin Crumbles, compared to the other products in this article, has a lower dose of Biotin, smaller ingredient list and therefore a lower price. It will probably not aid specific hoof issues beceause it is not potent enough, but will maintain a healthy hoof for a smaller budget. But really… it costs $0.43 per day, and Horseshoer’s Secret costs $0.64 per day if you get the biggest package size, with a lot better ingredients and quantity.
⭐ Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars (525+ reviews on Amazon)
Contains molasses and wheat middlings, which can cause problelms with horses with laminitis, IR, EMS or PPID. Lacks zinc/copper + amino acids to optimize hoof rehab. Also provides Omega 6, but needs balancing with Omega 3 (anti-inflammatory fats)
- Crumbles
- Dose: 1 scoop is equivalent to 1 oz.
- Duration: 3-lb Bucket (48-day supply)
- Cost: $20.95 ($0.43/day) (approximate)
- Ingredients: Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Wheat Middlings, Calcium Carbonate, Dried Cane Molasses, Dried Beet Molasses, Soybean Oil, Biotin, Calcium Propionate (Preservative), Silicon Dioxide, Citric Acid (Preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Vegetable Oil, Rosemary Extract.
⭐ Horseshoer’s Secret
This is designed to be ideal for all horses, but specially horses with hoof challenges due to a genetic predisposition, environmental factors or performance. Horseshoer’s Secret is a very popular product as well with so many people backing it.
I have used their hoof conditioner and really liked it, but have not tried the supplement feed because of the several highly processed ingredients and preservatives, which is not for my personal liking when feeding my horse.
This supplement includes 15 mg of biotin per serving. It combines protein, biotin, amino acids like lysine and methionine, minerals like copper and zinc, and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. They recommend to feed this supplemend and apply their own Hoof Conditioner to moisturize dry hooves and prevent cracks and splits.
⭐ Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars (800+ reviews on Amazon)
⭐ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars (125+ reviews on SmartPak)
Probably not a good product for if you’re aiming for a clean diet, and especially for horses with IR, PPID, leaky gut or sensitivities. Contains molasses.
- Pellet
- Dose: 1 scoop is equivalent to 6 oz. Feed 3 oz for maintenance or 6 oz for extra support.
- Duration: 11-lb Bucket (59-day supply), 22-lb Bucket (117-day supply), 38-lb Bucket (202-day supply)
- Cost: $47.99 ($.81/day), $82.99 ($0.71/day), $129.99 ($0.64/day) (approximate)
- Ingredients: Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Soybean Meal, Ground Flaxseed (source of Omega-3), Maize Distiller’s Dried Grains with Solubles, Wheat Bran, Wheat Middlings, Dried Cane Molasses, Ground Corn Cobs, L-lysine, DL-methionine, Yeast Culture, Biotin, Calcium Carbonate, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Zinc Methionine Complex, Soybean Oil, Vegetable Oil, Bentonite, Lignin Sulfonate, Silicon Dioxide, Verxite Granules, Acetic Aacid, Ammonium Hydroxide, Corn Starch, Dextrans, Tartaric Acid, Natural and Artificial Flavors; Benzoic Acid, Citric Acid, Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA), Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT), Propionic Acid, and Sorbic Acid (preservatives).
⭐ Grand Hoof Pellets
This product contains 20 mg of bioting and 5,000mg of MSM, with ingredients targeting connective tissue, hoof strength, and digestion.
Promotes Hoof Growth: Biotin and methionine work together to enhance hoof growth, ensuring your horse’s hooves are strong and resilient.
Improves Hoof Strength: Zinc and other essential minerals support the structural integrity of the hooves, reducing the risk of cracks and splits.
Enhances Overall Wellness: A healthy hoof contributes to overall wellness, allowing the horse to move comfortably and perform at their best.
⭐ Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars (200+ reviews on SmartPak)
Overall, it’s reasonably effective for general hoof support, but not ideal for metabolic horses due to the molasses and soy content.
- Form: Pellets
- Dose: 1 scoop = 1 oz.
- Duration: 5-lb = 80 days, 10-lb = 160 days, 20-lb = 320 days
- Cost: $64.16 ($0.80/day) for 5lb, $112.58 ($0.70/day) for 10lb, $221.00 ($0.69/day) for 20lb (approximate)
- Ingredients: MSM, Methionine, Lysine, Active Dry Yeast, Zinc, Copper, Biotin, Vitamin B-6, Calcium Carbonate, Citric Acid, Dried Cane Molasses, Flavoring, Mixed Tocopherols, Rice Bran, Rosemary Extract, Soybean Meal.
Not every horse needs the same supplement, so I always check for key features before choosing one. The most important nutrients are biotin (for hoof horn production), methionine and lysine (amino acids for protein synthesis), and trace minerals like zinc and copper.
Clear labeling, positive reviews from other owners, and science-backed brands help me feel confident in a supplement. I stick to well-known options with consistent ingredient quality and a track record of results. I sometimes try newer products, but only after reviewing solid feedback and studies.
⚠️ Important Note: More isn’t always better when it comes to hoof supplements. Doubling up on multiple supplements—or combining them with fortified feeds—can result in waste of money or dangerous excesses. Always check total intake and consult with a qualified equine nutritionist.
Comparison Chart
| Nutrient | Farrier’s Formula | Uckele Hoof Biotin | Vermont Blade | Vita Biotin Crumbles | GrandHoof | SmartHoof | Horseshoer’s Secret |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biotin | 20.05 mg | 16 mg | 25 mg | 6.25 mg | 20 mg | 25 mg | 15 mg |
| Methionine | 5.30 g | 250 mg | 5 g | — | 3 g | 2.50 g | 2.72 g |
| Zinc | 294 mg | 100 mg | 900 mg | — | 250 mg | 400 mg | 288 mg |
| Copper | 100.80 mg | — | 300 mg | — | 50 mg | 100 mg | 96 mg |
| Calcium | 0.47 g | — | — | 2.41 g | — | — | 3.6 g |
| Phosphorus | 0.70 g | — | — | — | — | — | 0.85 g |
| Sodium | 0.43 g | — | 7 g | — | — | — | — |
| Protein | 21.25 g | — | 24.5 g | 2.99g | — | 6.60 g | 34.01 g |
| Lysine | 1.00 g | — | 10 g | — | — | 1.50 g | 1.7 g |
| Threonine | 0.68 g | — | 2 g | — | — | 0.50 g | 1.79 g |
| MSM | — | — | — | — | 5 g | — | — |
| Magnesium | — | — | 6 g | — | — | — | — |
| Selenium | — | — | 2 mg | — | — | — | — |
| Other Key Ingredients | Yeast, Vit. C, Phospholipids, Omega-3 | Brewers Dried Yeast, Natural flavors. | Diamond V Yeast | Diamond V Yeast | Gelatin, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Omega 3, Ground Flaxseed. | Yeast culture, Omega 3 and 6. | |
| Contains Molasses | ✅ No | ✅ No | ✅ No | ⚠️ Yes | ⚠️ Yes | ✅ No | ⚠️ Yes |
💡 Tip: Not all minerals are absorbed equally. Chelated or organic forms like zinc methionine and copper proteinate are often more bioavailable than their inorganic counterparts (e.g., zinc oxide). Quality matters as much as quantity.
Why a Diet Change Might Not Help Your Horse’s Hooves
Some people dismiss hoof supplements or dietary changes as a waste of money—but often, the real issue is that the right nutritional or management foundations aren’t in place. Here are 8 common reasons why a diet change might not seem to be working:
1. The Supplement is Inadequate
Many “hoof supplements” fall short of providing enough critical minerals like copper or zinc. Always compare ingredients to NRC guidelines and ideally test your hay to balance the diet correctly.
2. Too Much Sugar and Starch
Even the best supplement won’t help if the rest of the diet is high in sugar or starch. This is especially critical for metabolic horses, who need feeds under 10% ESC + starch combined.
3. Grass Sensitivity
Some horses can’t handle even balanced forage-based diets if they have metabolic issues and are grazing rich pasture. Try a pasture break or grazing muzzle to see if hoof health improves.
4. Irregular Hoofcare
Proper nutrition won’t fix hooves if trims are skipped. Mechanical separation and long toes stress the hoof structure and need regular attention.
5. Lack of Movement
Diet can’t replace the benefits of daily movement. Hooves thrive on circulation and stimulation—stall rest or standing all day weakens internal structures. Do you know about Track Systems? Learn more
6. Dirty Living Conditions
Even the best diet can’t protect hooves from the damaging effects of standing in urine or manure, or even standing on mud all day. Clean, dry footing is essential for healthy frogs and soles.
7. Underlying Metabolic Disease
If all else is in place and hooves still struggle, consider testing for PPID or IR, which can cause chronic hoof issues regardless of diet.
8. The Horse Isn’t Eating the Feed
Horses may avoid mineral-rich feeds or barn staff might discard uneaten supplements. Always verify that your horse is eating what you’re offering.
I always talk with my farrier or veterinarian before starting a new supplement to rule out underlying hoof conditions. Supplements help most when paired with expert care.
Consistency is key. I feed supplements daily and maintain a routine of good trimming and balanced nutrition to support long-term hoof health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to see improvement in hooves?
Visible improvements typically take 3–6 months, depending on hoof growth rate. Some horses may take up to a year to show full results. The hoof wall grows from the coronary band at a rate of approximately 6-9 mm (1/4 to 1/2 inch) per month. This means it takes roughly 9-12 months for the hoof wall to grow down from the coronary band to the ground surface at the toe
Can I feed more than one hoof supplement?
It’s not recommended. Over-supplementation of biotin, zinc, and copper can lead to toxicity or nutritional imbalance. Choose one balanced product.
Is biotin alone enough?
No. Biotin works best when paired with amino acids (like methionine), zinc, copper, and omega-3s to support keratin production and anti-inflammatory pathways.
Should I stop supplementing once the hooves improve?
Continued supplementation may be necessary if your horse’s base diet is deficient. Discontinue only if advised by a veterinarian or equine nutritionist.
Final Thoughts
Hoof health is about consistency and balance. While no supplement replaces good farrier care and a balanced forage-based diet, the right one can support stronger growth, fewer cracks, and greater hoof elasticity. Choose a product with clinical support and nutrient synergy—not just the highest biotin number.
Before saying “the diet didn’t work,” check that the plan was well-designed and consistently implemented. Balanced minerals, low sugar, regular care, and good management are all essential for successful hoof rehab.
✅ Pro Tip: Store hoof supplements in a cool, dry area and avoid exposing the bucket to humidity or direct sun to maintain nutrient potency.
And PLEASE REMEMBER that when it comes to hoof health, the most important factor is surprisingly simple: a good, balanced diet and good management. If your horse is being fed properly—meaning he’s getting the right mix of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals—then his body is already equipped to grow the best quality hoof it can. You don’t need to overthink it.
That said, there are real nutritional problems that can affect hooves—like selenium toxicity, metabolic issues, and obesity—but there’s no strong evidence that blanket supplementation will prevent these. In fact, giving extra nutrients to a horse already on a good diet won’t magically make hooves stronger. The “more is better” mindset doesn’t work here; the horse’s body either excretes, stores, or burns off excess nutrients. So instead of reaching for a bigger supplement bucket, just focus on feeding the right diet. For most horses, that’s truly all they need for healthy hooves.
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References
- Buffa, Eugene, et al. “Effect of Dietary Biotin Supplement on Equine Hoof Horn Growth Rate and Hardness.” Equine Veterinary Journal, vol. 24, Dec. 1992, pp. 472–4, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.2042-3306.1992.tb02879.x.
- Kentucky Equine Research Staff. “Horse Hoof Health: Beyond Biotin – Kentucky Equine Research.” Kentucky Equine Research, 25 Mar. 2019, ker.com/equinews/beyond-biotin-horse-hoof-health/. Accessed 17 June 2025.
- Ramey, Dr David. “Ramey: Is That Hoof Supplement Actually Helping Your Horse?” Paulick Report | Latest News and Commentary from the Horse Racing and Equine World, 27 Sept. 2022, paulickreport.com/horse-care-category/ramey-is-that-hoof-supplement-actually-helping-your-horse. Accessed 17 June 2025.
- Thunes, Clair. “Do Hoof Supplements Help?” The Horse, 3 June 2024, thehorse.com/17437/do-hoof-supplements-help/. Accessed 17 June 2025.
- Ursel, Noelle. “Hoof Growth: How to Feed Your Horse for Best Results | Mad Barn.” Mad Barn Canada, 2020, madbarn.ca/how-to-feed-your-horse-for-optimal-hoof-growth/?srsltid=AfmBOoojZmgj4QmU5EQqbdG6QozWe4xTa5I_ceT3RDyR0Cd6uussUT9j. Accessed 17 June 2025.