Hooves need to be trimmed every six to eight weeks to keep them in proper shape. Trimming should be done by a trained farrier. An inexperienced person can easily trim the hoof wall too short or pare too much sole, causing the horse to be sore. To avoid lameness, the hoof must be balanced precisely which requires the skill and expertise of a farrier. In the long run, it’s less expensive to pay for a good farrier than to risk the well-being of your horse.