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Picking out a horse's hooves is one of the most important jobs and should be done daily, and certainly before you ride him.

Be consistent - ask for the hooves firmly and in the same sequence so he knows what to expect next. Begin by running your hand down the leg of the hoof you want to lift and use the command "lift". If he doesn't respond, squeeze the area immediately above the hoof. This usually works.

If he still resists, pull at his feathers (if he has any) to encourage him. If he still will not budge, and presuming there is not a problem with his foot, chances are he is trying you out. At this point you have to be firm. It is essential that he lifts his feet for his own well-being and if he succeeds in defying you over this process he will try in other things, too. Tap his leg and insist he lifts the foot.

It may be a great effort but it's a battle you must win.

When you have his foot raised, support the hoof with your hand on the outer edge (see pic)

This method is safest as if he snatches his foot away he cannot slam your hand into the ground - a very painful experience!

With foot held firmly, pick out the hoof using downward strokes from the top to the bottom. (see pic)

Horses cannot feel the scraping of the pick - hooves are like fingernails in sensitivity - but do be careful around the frog, which is the shock absorber of the hoof and is more sensitive. It is important to keep this area clean as it can harbour thrush.