A conformational fault of the forelimbs visible from the front. The metacarpal bones (cannon bones) are offset to the lateral side: they do not follow the axis of the limb running through the radius, the limb axis runs through the medial part of the cannon and pastern region and the medial part of the hoof.

A natural compound found in many plants that is a precursor of vitamin A. It has a strong red-orange colour. Vitamin A is an essential vitamin, therefore the horse should always have access to a source of beta-carotene such as fresh grass, carrots or suitable supplements. 

Bevel: a surface or edge which slopes away from a horizontal or vertical surface. Usually seen on the outside of a shoe where a bevel is formed to continue the angle of the hoof wall. This can be used to enhance the whole hoof or a part of it.

Chamfer: A symmetrical sloping edge cut into a right angled corner or edge.

In farriery, the terms are often used interchangeably.

The science or study of the mechanical aspects of biological structures or whole organisms. It is a multidisciplinary field, combining anatomy and physiology with the principles of engineering and physics to investigate aspects of functional mechanics and the movement of bodies or structures, generally the musculoskeletal system. In equine science, biomechanics is particularly concerned with gait patterns, joint loading, the interplay of muscles and bones, the reaction of the musculoskeletal system to different physical forces (e.g. saddle pressure or rider movements), and the general "mechanics" of the horse.

A term used to describe measures that are taken to reduce the risk of an infectious disease being introduced to a population or group of horses or being transmitted between horses.

Biotin is a water soluble B-complex vitamin which is essential for healthy hoof growth. Horses with poor horn quality may benefit from the long term dietary supplementation of 3-4 mg/100kg BWT per day.

An object that sits in the horse's mouth and to which the reins are attached. Most bits are made of metal, but some have a mouthpiece synthetic material or leather. The mouthpiece of the bit must lie in the diastema (the stretch of mouth where the horse has no teeth between the incisors and the molars). The mouthpiece is attached to rings or shanks to which the reins attach. There are hundreds of different types of bit which can be matched to the horse's and the rider's experience, ability, and personality, and the activity or discipline. Regulations on the use of different types of bits vary between disciplines.

A type of bridle that is used without a bit. There are various forms of bitless bridle both in English and in Western riding. Reins are typically attached to the noseband and pressure on the nose is used to control and guide the horse. Some bridles have mechansims to additionally exhert pressure on the horse's poll or on the lower jaw. Examples include the Hackamore and the Bosal bridles.

A coat colour of the horse where hair is uniformly black throughout the body (with the exception of white markings).

Historically a "smith" was a person who worked with metal. The type of metal became the prefix hence Goldsmith, Coppersmith, Silversmith, etc.. Blacksmith came from wrought iron which was dirty to work and known as Black Iron. Nowadays, this term is used in a much broader sense to refer to metal working professionals; generally limited to manufacturers of handmade goods (wrought iron crafts). Blacksmiths working with horses are commonly known as farriers. Blacksmiths working in large scale industry are generally referred to as metal workers or fabricators.