Whether you’re caring for a miniature horse, a tiny pony, or a growing foal, hoof protection poses unique challenges. Their small hooves, delicate structures, and often sensitive walls can make traditional shoeing difficult — and sometimes risky.

So, the big question is:
👉 Are glue-on horseshoes a good (and safe) option for small hooves?

Let’s find out.

🦄 The Challenges of Shoeing Small Hooves

Foals and tiny ponies often have:

  • Thin hoof walls
  • Faster-growing hoof horn
  • A higher risk of hoof damage or misalignment
  • Sensitivity to nail-driven trauma

Traditional nail-on shoes are:

  • Often too big or need significant reshaping
  • Risky because of the nail size relative to the hoof wall

✅ Why Glue-On Horseshoes Make Sense

Glue-on horseshoes eliminate the need for nails, which:

  • Prevents hoof wall cracking
  • Allows natural growth without interference
  • Provides support even when nails aren’t an option

Composite glue-on shoes (like Duplo Classic or Nailless) are:

  • Lightweight and flexible — perfect for delicate hooves
  • Customizable — can be trimmed and adjusted for tiny sizes
  • Available in sizes starting as small as 50mm, covering many ponies and foals

🛡️ What They Help With

Glue-on shoes can assist in:

  • Orthopedic corrections (supporting limb alignment)
  • Protection after injury (for example, hoof abscess recovery)
  • Therapy for conditions like club foot or weak hoof horn

They’re also great for seasonal protection — e.g., during summer when tracks are dry and hard.

⚠️ Safety Considerations

➡️ Is glue safe for foals?
Yes — when applied properly by an experienced farrier using non-toxic adhesives like polyurethane.

➡️ Will it harm hoof growth?
No. In fact, many foals thrive with glue-on shoes because they allow normal hoof expansion and can be easily removed or replaced.

➡️ Any risks?

  • Improper application can stress the hoof wall.
  • The glue bond may fail if applied to wet or contaminated hoofs.

🛠️ Best Practices

  • Always work with a qualified farrier familiar with glue-on systems.
  • Make sure hooves are dry, clean, and prepped before application.
  • Choose a shoe designed for small hooves — Duplo’s Classic line is a top option.

🚀 Final Thoughts

If you’re struggling with shoeing options for your mini pony or foal, glue-on composite horseshoes offer a safe, effective, and flexible alternative to nails.

They protect delicate hooves, support healthy growth, and reduce the risk of trauma — making them a smart choice for young, sensitive, or tiny-hooved equines.

👉 Duplo’s lightweight glue-on options are available in small sizes, making them perfect for ponies and foals alike.