EFFA Approved Farrier Examination

EFFA Approved Farrier Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which part of the hoof provides the primary weight-bearing surface?
• Frog
• Sole
• Wall
• White line

Rationale: The wall of the hoof is the main structure that bears the

weight of the horse, while the sole and frog provide support and shock absorption.

• What is the main purpose of the frog?
• Support the wall
• Shock absorption and circulation
• Growth of the hoof 1 / 4

• Anchoring nails

Rationale: The frog helps absorb concussion and aids in blood

circulation through the hoof.

• Which material is commonly used for traditional horseshoes?
• Plastic
• Rubber
• Steel
• Aluminum oxide

Rationale: Steel is the traditional material due to its durability and

ability to be shaped and nailed to the hoof.

• What is the white line of the hoof?
• Outer wall
• Junction between the sole and wall
• The frog
• The coronet band

Rationale: The white line is the visible line between the hoof wall and

the sole, important for nail placement.

• What tool is used to remove excess hoof wall?
• Rasp
• Nippers
• Hammer
• Clincher 2 / 4

Rationale: Nippers are used to cut and remove the overgrown hoof

wall before finishing with a rasp.

• Which of the following is a sign of laminitis?
• Even hoof growth
• Sinking or rotation of the coffin bone
• Strong frog
• Smooth sole

Rationale: Laminitis causes inflammation leading to rotation or

sinking of the coffin bone inside the hoof.

• What angle should the front hoof typically be trimmed to?

A) 30–35°

B) 35–40°

C) 50–55°

D) 60–65°

Rationale: A front hoof angle of approximately 50–55° is considered

ideal for balance and movement.

• Which shoeing technique is best for a horse with thin soles?
• Fullered steel shoes
• Bar shoes or pads
• Aluminum racing plates
• None

Rationale: Bar shoes or pads protect thin soles by distributing

pressure and providing support. 3 / 4

• What is the primary purpose of a clinch?
• Support the wall
• Secure the nail
• Trim the hoof
• Prevent cracks

Rationale: Clinching bends the nail over to hold the shoe firmly

against the hoof wall.

• What hoof structure is responsible for growth?
• Sole
• Frog
• Coronary band
• Wall

Rationale: The coronary band contains the cells that produce the

hoof wall and contribute to continuous growth.

• Which of the following is a symptom of navicular syndrome?
• Cracked hoof wall
• Lameness, especially in the front limbs
• Thrush in frog
• White line disease

Rationale: Navicular syndrome commonly causes forelimb lameness

due to pain in the navicular bone and surrounding structures.

• What is the function of the bars of the hoof?
• Support the frog
• / 4