Shoeing begins with the selection of a suitable horseshoe. An inappropriate shoe cannot fulfil its function and can even hinder the horse in its movement; e.g., the weight of the shoe has a direct effect on the performance of a racehorse. The selection of the horseshoe is mainly based on the size of the horse and the hoof, and the horse’s intended use.

The farrier must decide on a certain type of horseshoe, a suitable thickness of the shoe and the right size of horseshoe for each horse.