How to become a horse farrier: The complete career guide to salary and certification

The scent of fresh hay and the rhythmic clang of a hammer shaping hot metal—this is the world of a horse farrier. If you’ve ever watched a skilled farrier work, bending over a horse’s hoof with quiet confidence, you know it’s more than a job—it’s an art. But how do you turn that fascination into a career? Becoming a horse farrier requires a blend of hands-on training, certification, and a deep understanding of equine anatomy. From shaping shoes to managing a thriving business, this guide covers everything: the steps to certification, salary expectations, and the real-world challenges of working with horses every day. Let’s dive in.

What does a horse farrier do?

A horse farrier is a specialist in equine hoof care, combining the skills of a blacksmith with the knowledge of a veterinarian. Their primary job is to trim, balance, and shoe horses’ hooves to ensure proper movement and prevent injury. But it’s not just about nailing shoes onto hooves—farriers assess gait, diagnose lameness issues, and even collaborate with veterinarians on treatment plans. A typical day might involve rasping overgrown hooves, forging custom shoes in a smoky workshop, or calming a nervous horse under the summer sun. The work is physical, detail-oriented, and deeply rewarding for those who love horses.

Steps to becoming a horse farrier

1. Get hands-on experience with horses

Before you pick up a rasp or a hammer, spend time around horses. Volunteer at stables, assist a seasoned farrier, or take riding lessons. Understanding equine behavior is crucial—you’ll need to read a horse’s body language to stay safe. A spooked 1,200-pound animal can be unpredictable, but trust builds with experience.

2. Enroll in a farrier school or apprenticeship

Formal training is essential. Look for accredited programs (like those from The Brotherhood of Working Farriers Association or American Farrier’s Association) that cover anatomy, forging, and lameness prevention. Many schools offer 8- to 12-week courses, but apprenticeships—where you learn under a master farrier—are gold. Expect blisters, long hours, and the satisfaction of crafting your first perfect shoe.

3. Pursue certification

While not always legally required, certification boosts credibility. The American Farrier’s Association offers tiers (from Certified Farrier to Journeyman), each requiring written exams and live shoeing demonstrations. Passing means proving you can handle everything from a laminitis case to a spirited young Thoroughbred.

4. Build your toolkit

A farrier’s toolkit isn’t cheap, but it’s an investment. Essential items include:

• Hoof nippers and rasps
• Anvil and forge (for custom shoes)
• Hammers and clinch cutters

Pro tip: Start with used tools to save money, then upgrade as you specialize.

5. Launch your business

Many farriers are self-employed. Market yourself by networking with vets, trainers, and barn owners. A strong Instagram showing your work? Even better. Price services competitively—a basic trim might cost $40-$80, while complex therapeutic shoeing can run $200+ per horse.

Horse farrier salary and job outlook

Income varies widely. The median U.S. salary is around $52,000 annually, but top earners (especially those working with racehorses or show jumpers) can make six figures. Rural areas may have lower rates but less competition. The job outlook is stable—horses will always need hoof care, but your success hinges on skill, reputation, and hustle.

Challenges and rewards of the job

This isn’t a 9-to-5 career. You’ll work in rain, snow, and sweltering heat. Back pain is common, and grumpy horses? Inevitable. But for the right person, the rewards outweigh the aches: the pride in seeing a lame horse trot soundly again, the camaraderie of the barn, and the quiet rhythm of shaping iron into something that helps a hoof fly.

At the end of the day, being a farrier isn’t just about shoes—it’s about partnership. Partnership with horses, with owners, and with the age-old craft of keeping these majestic animals moving freely. If you’re drawn to the smell of burning hoof and the ring of steel on steel, this might just be your calling. Grab a rasp, take a deep breath, and step into the circle. The horses—and your future—are waiting.