You are currently viewing AskHQ: Wider frogs

AskHQ: Wider frogs

Q: Why is a wide frog preferred?

A: Frogs vary in shape and size, and while many horses with narrow frogs, can remain perfectly sound throughout their lives, a food with a wider, thicker frog is generally preferred.

This is because in these instances the frog will be able to provide better support to the back of the foot. When moving correctly, horses should land heel first i.e. the heel lands before the toe. The back of the foot therefore needs to be strong to take weight. A larger frog will provide better shock absorbing functions to protect the vital structures in the hoof above and will also add good traction and grip to the hoof when it lands.

As an additional point, horses with broad healthy frogs are generally found to have other foot structures that are considered to be healthier and more functional. There is some debate as to whether the larger frog is just generally part of a healthier foot, or if the larger frog provides support that makes the other structures healthier – but the truth is likely to lie somewhere between these two.