why do horses wear horseshoes

Horses wear horseshoes primarily to protect their hooves from excessive wear and injury, especially when walking or working on hard, rough, or abrasive surfaces. Horseshoes also provide better traction, support the hoof structure, and can help with medical conditions or uneven gaits. Domesticated horses, unlike wild ones, often need horseshoes because they perform various tasks on surfaces that can wear their hooves faster than they can naturally grow back. Additionally, horseshoes can help horses that pull loads or stand on moist ground for long periods, preventing pain and hoof problems. Some horseshoes are used therapeutically to address specific hoof or leg conditions. The use and necessity of horseshoes depend on the individual horse's needs, lifestyle, and environment.