Hoof Tar: Traditional Care for Sole and Frog with Wood Tar
Generations of horse owners have relied on tar when the sole needs care in wet weather. Here you will find hoof tar and beech tar for hooves and claws.
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Kerbl TarPaste beechwood tar for hoof and claw care, 10 kg canister
Content: 10 kg (€4.44 / 1 kg)
Sale price: €44.39 Regular price: €44.99 (1.33% saved)
Hoof Tar: proven care for the underside of the hoof
Hoof tar is a traditional care product made from wood tar that is mainly applied to the sole and frog. It forms a tough protective layer that can help keep the horn from softening through wet, muck and urine. Its strong, smoky smell is typical. Hoof tar comes for brushing on or as a beech tar paste, which is also suitable for the claws of cattle, sheep and goats.
When hoof tar makes sense
Many owners use hoof tar in wet weather, when horses stand a lot on damp ground. Tar is also popular on soles and frog grooves that tend to be soft. It is not a product for daily use on the whole hoof wall and does not belong on the coronary band. With thrush, loose horn or lameness, call in your farrier or vet instead of simply applying tar. Clean, dry bedding and a well-drained paddock remain the best basis, and tar is a useful addition to them during the wettest weeks of the year.
Applying it properly
Pick out the hoof thoroughly, brush it clean and let it dry well. Then apply the tar thinly to the sole and frog with a brush. If needed, press a little paste into the grooves beside the frog. Afterwards, keep your horse on dry ground for a while. Because tar stains heavily, it is best to wear gloves and old clothes. Close the tin tightly after use so that the tar does not dry out and stays easy to spread next time.
Frequently asked questions
How often can I use hoof tar?
Use hoof tar specifically during wet spells and not every day. Tarring too often can clog the horn and make it brittle. It is best to discuss with your farrier how often it makes sense for your horse.
Can I use hoof tar for thrush?
With thrush, it is important to clean the frog thoroughly first and have your farrier trim it. Many owners then use tar or a special frog care product. With deep grooves or lameness, your horse needs to see the vet.
Does hoof tar come off hands and clothes?
Tar is stubborn. The best way to remove it from skin is with a little cooking oil, followed by soap. It hardly comes out of clothing, so gloves and yard clothes are worthwhile.
Tar for sole and frog
When field and paddock stay wet for weeks, the sole of the hoof easily softens. Hoof tar is a proven product that many horse owners apply specifically to the sole and frog at this time. It puts a tough, dark layer on the horn that can keep wet and muck away. Hoof tar with a brush is quick to apply, and a beech tar paste can easily be pressed into the grooves of the frog and also suits claws. Only apply the tar to clean, dry hooves and leave out the coronary band, where new horn grows. It is best to wear gloves and old clothes, because tar stains strongly and hardly comes out again. With a soft, foul-smelling frog or lameness, tar is no substitute for the farrier and vet. As part of good hoof care, though, it sees your horse safely through the wet winter months.