Examination Practice Questions And Correct

Australian Farriers and Blacksmiths Association (AFBA) Certified Farrier Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which structure in the horse’s hoof absorbs the majority of impact

during movement?

• Wall
• Sole
• Frog
• Periople

Rationale: The frog acts as a shock absorber, helping to dissipate

impact forces and support circulation in the hoof.

• What is the primary function of the hoof wall?
• Shock absorption
• Nutrient storage 1 / 4

• Weight bearing and protection
• Sensory perception

Rationale: The hoof wall supports the horse’s weight and protects

internal structures from trauma.

• Laminitis primarily affects which part of the hoof?
• Sole
• Laminar interface
• Frog
• Periople

Rationale: Laminitis is inflammation of the laminae, the tissue that

binds the hoof wall to the coffin bone.

• Which tool is used to remove excess hoof wall and create a flat surface

for shoeing?

• Hoof knife
• Clincher
• Rasp
• Nippers

Rationale: The rasp levels and smooths the hoof wall after trimming or

nipping.

• What angle should the dorsal hoof wall ideally form with the ground?

A. 30–35°

B. 35–40°

C. 45–55° 2 / 4

D. 60–65°

Rationale: A healthy hoof typically has a 45–55° dorsal wall angle for

optimal weight distribution.

• Which type of horseshoe is designed for added traction on slippery

surfaces?

• Racing plate
• Studded shoe
• Therapeutic shoe
• Bar shoe

Rationale: Studs provide extra grip on slippery or muddy surfaces,

preventing slips and falls.

• What is the main purpose of a bar shoe?
• Speed enhancement
• Aesthetic purposes
• Support of weak or injured hooves
• Traction on turf

Rationale: Bar shoes provide additional support to the hoof capsule,

particularly in cases of laminitis or underrun heels.

• What is the first step in a typical hoof trimming procedure?
• Rasping the wall
• Nipping the hoof
• Cleaning the hoof
• Applying the shoe 3 / 4

Rationale: Cleaning the hoof ensures all dirt and debris are removed

for accurate trimming and shoeing.

• When should a horse typically have its hooves trimmed?
• Every 2–3 months
• Every 4–8 weeks
• Every 10–12 weeks
• Once a year

Rationale: Regular trimming every 4–8 weeks maintains hoof balance

and prevents overgrowth or deformities.

• Which structure helps pump blood back up the horse’s leg

during movement?

• Sole
• Wall
• Frog
• White line

Rationale: The frog compresses during weight-bearing, assisting

circulation through the hoof.

• What is the primary material used in traditional horseshoe

manufacturing?

• Aluminum
• Copper
• Steel
• Titanium
• / 4