Nature & Agriculture · EFZ
Hoof Care Specialist EFZ
Care for horse hooves.
About this profession
Care for horse hooves. Over 3 years you learn this profession in a host company, at the vocational school and in inter-company courses. At the end you receive a nationally recognised Federal VET Diploma (EFZ).
Day-to-day responsibilities
- ›Clean, examine, and assess hooves
- ›Fit and apply horseshoes
- ›Treat sick or injured hooves
- ›Advise clients on hoof care
Skills you'll need
A typical week as an apprentice
Host company
3 days/week — you learn the trade hands-on alongside experienced professionals.
Vocational school
1–2 days/week — general education plus job-specific theory.
Inter-company courses (üK)
Several blocks per year — practise core techniques together with other apprentices.
Where you'll work
Farms, forests, gardens, food production — outdoors with the seasons.
Entry requirements
- Completed compulsory school (Sek A or B, depending on profession). Strong school report in relevant subjects helps.
- A 'Schnupperlehre' (1–5 day taster) is the best way to find out if the profession suits you.
What you earn at the end
Federal VET Diploma (EFZ) — a nationally recognised qualification that opens doors to higher VET (HF), the vocational baccalaureate (BM) and universities of applied sciences.
Apprentice wage
Typical monthly gross wage (CHF). Actual wages vary by sector and region.
Year 1
CHF 700 – 900/ Mt.
Year 2
CHF 950 – 1’200/ Mt.
Year 3
CHF 1’300 – 1’700/ Mt.
Future-readiness
Score 3/5Our take
Demand remains steady; automation is limited due to individual care needs; adaptability through further training ensures job security.
Sources
Early contract endings in this field
Across Nature & Agriculture apprenticeships, roughly 22–30% of contracts are ended early, compared with about 23% nationally. Most of those apprentices continue their training elsewhere.
Further education & career
- Federal VET Diploma advanced (farrier)
- Higher Vocational School (e.g. animal care)
- Vocational Baccalaureate, then University of Applied Sciences
- Specialization in equine orthopedics
Learn more
Official sources and further information about this profession.