Every trim
Cut the inner claw
Set the right toe length, trim the sole flat, and know the heel depth and the minimum sole thickness at the toe.
Free PDF · 1 page · Print ready
The hoof trimming cheat sheet for the Dutch method.
This free hoof trimming cheat sheet puts the 5 functional trimming steps for a cow's rear legs on one illustrated page, with the measurements that matter. Keep it at the chute.
- 5 stepsin the order you trim
- Illustrateda diagram for every step
- One pageletter size, print and laminate
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What's inside
Five steps, in the order you trim
Each step has its own diagram and the key measurement or rule to follow.
Every trim
Match the outer claw
Same length and heel depth as the inner claw, also flat. One rule you should never break here.
Every trim
Dish out the sole
A slight hollow, more on the outer claw than the inner, so ulcers show and manure can clear. And the one place to stay away from.
Only if there's a problem
Take weight off a sick claw
How far to lower it, how much of the sole to leave alone, and when a block helps.
Before treatment
Clean up loose horn
Remove loose or detached horn in the heel area before treating infectious hoof problems.
One page, one cow at a time.
The measurements for every step are on the sheet. Print it, laminate it, and keep it at the chute.
Get the free cheat sheetWant the full explanation? Read the cow hoof trimming guide.
In the barn
A sheet that stays at the chute
Laminate it and hang it at the chute
When you're unsure about a claw, the step and the measurement are right there.
Train new staff on the same method
Everyone trims to the same lengths and in the same order.
Check your own work
Compare a finished claw with the diagram before the cow leaves the chute.
The cheat sheet is a general overview of functional trimming for the rear legs. Every cow is different. If you're new to trimming, learn it hands-on with an experienced trimmer first.
Measuring toe length? The Claw Check gauge in the Hoof Care Essentials Kit is made for the Dutch method measurements.
Who's behind it
From a trimmer who uses it every week.
Koos Vis has been trimming dairy cows since 1994, and the Dutch method has been his go-to the whole time. The cheat sheet puts the steps he follows at the chute on one page.
More from Koos in Hoof Clips“I've been a hoof trimmer for over 30 years, and the Dutch method has been my go-to for maintaining herd health. It's simple, effective, and built on decades of expertise. Whether you're new to trimming or looking to refine your technique, this guide is for you.”
Koos Vis, Diamond Hoof Care
Questions
Questions about the hoof trimming cheat sheet
The short answers, before you sign up.
Question not here?Call us at 1-800-617-8908.
Is the cheat sheet free?
Yes. Enter your name and email and we'll send you the PDF. There's nothing to buy.
What is the Dutch method?
A functional trimming method developed in the Netherlands by Prof. E. Toussaint Raven in the 1970s. It trims claws back to a natural shape and spreads the weight between the two claws. It's still widely taught to hoof trimmers today.
Does it cover the front legs?
No. The 5 steps on the sheet are written for the rear legs, where most claw problems show up.
Can I learn to trim from the sheet alone?
It's a reminder of the steps and measurements, not a full course. If you're new to trimming, learn hands-on with an experienced trimmer. For lame cows, call your trimmer or vet.
Will you email me after I download it?
Yes, you'll get Hoof Clips, Koos's free hoof care newsletter, every second Thursday. Every issue has an unsubscribe link.
Can I share it with my staff?
Yes, print as many copies as you need for your farm.
Free hoof trimming cheat sheet
Get the 5 steps before your next trim day.
Free, one page, ready to print.
Send me the cheat sheet
- Free PDF
- 5 illustrated steps
- Copy it for your staff