Anatomy disposes horses to lean, a fact overlooked by most riders and farriers, but it could be the underlying cause of the hoof wear and growth patterns that shoers must deal with
If you start assessing a hoof only after picking it up, you might be missing important evidence that helps explain the condition of that foot, according to Deb Bennett. Instead, start the evaluation by watching the horse move and examining its standing posture. Watch for leaning, she says.