Horse Care Checklist

A daily and routine horse care checklist covering feeding, turnout, grooming, hooves and health.

Published July 12, 2026

Feed & Water

Provide constant access to clean, fresh water
Feed quality forage such as hay or pasture
Give measured concentrates or grain if part of the diet
Adjust amounts to the horse's weight, age and workload
Offer a salt or mineral block
Check water troughs and buckets for cleanliness and ice

Turnout & Exercise

Turn out for movement and grazing time
Provide daily exercise, riding or groundwork
Check fencing, gates and the paddock for hazards
Ensure shelter from sun, wind and rain
Monitor herd dynamics if turned out with other horses

Grooming

Curry and brush the coat to remove dirt and loose hair
Comb out the mane and tail
Clean around the eyes, nostrils and dock
Check the coat and skin for cuts, lumps or parasites
Apply fly protection in warm seasons

Hoof Care

Pick out each hoof daily
Check for heat, odor, cracks or signs of thrush
Watch for lameness or uneven movement
Schedule regular farrier visits for trimming or shoeing
Commonly every six to eight weeks

Stall & Environment

Muck out the stall and remove soiled bedding
Add fresh, dry bedding
Refill water and hay
Check the stall for sharp edges or loose fittings
Maintain ventilation and keep the area dry

Health & Records

Observe appetite, manure and behavior for changes
Keep vaccinations current with your vet
Maintain a deworming schedule based on advice
Book routine dental checks
Keep a record of vet, farrier and dental visits

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A horse care checklist is a daily and routine guide to keeping a horse healthy — feeding and watering, turnout and exercise, grooming, hoof care and regular health checks. It helps owners and barn staff keep care consistent so problems are spotted early.

Horses thrive on routine. Steady feeding, daily observation and consistent hoof and dental attention prevent many of the issues that become emergencies when neglected. A written checklist keeps everyone at the barn on the same page.

This printable list suits new and experienced horse owners as well as anyone helping with daily care, with tasks grouped from daily essentials to scheduled health work. Adjust amounts and timing to your individual horse.

Print it or download the PDF and tick off each task as it is done.

FAQ

What does a horse need every day?

Daily care includes fresh water, appropriate forage and feed, turnout or exercise, a check of the stall or paddock, and a head-to-hoof look for injuries or changes in behavior and appetite.

How often do horses need hoof care?

Pick out hooves daily and have a farrier trim or shoe roughly every six to eight weeks, adjusted to the individual horse. Watch for heat, odor or lameness, which warrant prompt attention.

How much water does a horse drink a day?

A horse typically drinks many gallons daily and needs constant access to clean, unfrozen water. Intake rises with heat, work and hay-heavy diets, so monitor troughs and buckets closely.

When should I call a vet for my horse?

This checklist is general guidance. Call a veterinarian for signs of colic, lameness, injury, off feed, or any sudden change, and schedule routine vaccinations, dental care and deworming with your vet.

Can I print this horse care checklist?

Yes. Print it or download the PDF so you can keep it in the barn and tick off daily and routine tasks.