AFA Certified Farrier CF Exam Practice

AFA Certified Farrier (CF) Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary function of the hoof wall?
• Cushioning impact
• Providing structural support and weight bearing
• Moisture regulation
• Shock absorption

Rationale: The hoof wall carries the majority of weight and provides

the main structural support of the hoof.

• Which structure produces the hoof wall?
• Frog
• Sole
• Coronary band
• Bars 1 / 4

Rationale: The coronary band is responsible for generating new hoof

wall growth downward.

3. The ideal hoof-pastern axis should be:

• Broken forward
• Broken backward
• Straight
• Curved

Rationale: A straight axis aligns the hoof and pastern for optimal

limb mechanics.

• What characteristic indicates a healthy frog?
• Dry and chalky
• Wide and resilient
• Thin and narrow
• Soft and foul-smelling

Rationale: A wide, resilient frog supports shock absorption and

proper hoof function.

• What angle is generally recommended for the front hooves of a

horse?

A. 45°

B. 80°

C. 50–55°

D. 35–40° 2 / 4

Rationale: A normal front hoof angle typically falls within 50–55

degrees.

• What condition involves rotation of the coffin bone due to laminar

separation?

• Laminitis
• Thrush
• Contracted heels
• White line disease

Rationale: Laminitis disrupts the laminae, causing coffin bone

rotation or sinking.

• What is the main cause of thrush?
• Excess exercise
• Poor hoof hygiene and moisture
• Dry climate
• Over-trimming

Rationale: Thrush is commonly caused by bacteria in moist, dirty

hoof conditions.

8. Hot shoeing refers to:

• Using a torch
• Fitting a heated shoe to the hoof to create a burn imprint
• Attaching plastic shoes
• Working in warm climates 3 / 4

Rationale: Hot shoeing allows a precise fit by burning the heated

shoe to the hoof surface.

• What is the typical growth rate of a horse’s hoof per month?
• 1 inch
• 1/4 to 3/8 inch
• 1/16 inch
• 1/2 inch

Rationale: Hooves grow around 1/4–3/8 inch monthly depending on

nutrition and environment.

• Which nail size is commonly used for a typical riding horse?
• 2
• 8
• 5 or 6
• 10

Rationale: Most average horses are shod with nail sizes 5–6.

11. The white line is located:

• On the frog
• On the bars
• Between the hoof wall and sole
• At the coronary band

Rationale: The white line marks the junction between wall and sole

and indicates hoof integrity.

• / 4