Farrier
そうてつし
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession that fabricates, fits, and adjusts metal horseshoes suited to a horse's hooves to assist and protect the horse's gait.
Description
The farrier is a specialist who forges horseshoes suited to the horse's hooves from iron materials and attaches them to the hooves. They heat metal in a furnace and shape it using a hammer and anvil, making adjustments to fit the horse's hooves. In addition to manufacturing horseshoes, they check the gait after fitting and perform repairs and replacements in response to wear, contributing to horse health management. They mainly visit racetracks and ranches, with work primarily outdoors. Knowledge of horse anatomy, metalworking and blacksmithing skills, and communication abilities with horse owners and veterinarians are required.
Future Outlook
Demand from equestrian activities and livestock farming remains stable, but aging of craftsmen and successor shortages are challenges. Mechanization progress is limited, and demand for highly skilled farriers is expected to persist at a certain level.
Personality Traits
Excellent Observation Skills / Physically Fit / Polite and Courteous
Work Style
Career Path
Apprentice Farrier → Farrier → Chief Farrier → Freelance / Independent Practice
Required Skills
Basic Metalworking Knowledge / Blacksmithing Skills / Hoof Anatomy / Horseshoe Fitting and Adjustment Skills
Recommended Skills
Basic Veterinary Medicine Knowledge / Customer Service Skills / Horse Health Management / Tool Maintenance
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because fine adjustments directly affect the horse's gait. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because it involves handling heavy iron materials and prolonged standing work. |
| Problem Solving | Because it is necessary to devise the optimal fitting method according to the hoof condition. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because there are few complex calculations. |
Aliases
- Horseshoe Craftsman
- Horseshoer
Related Jobs
- Blacksmith
- Ranch Hand
- Veterinarian