Hoof Anatomy

The hoof itself is a very complex part of the body. There is an out part composed of various cornified structures which cover and protects the inner part of the hoof that contains the soft tissues and bones.

Wikipedia - About the Hoof of a Horse provides a very good description of the working of the hoof.

Essentially the hoof is made up of

The Walls

It is an epidermis layer and is an outer living hard layer of ‘skin’. The outer extreme cells are actually dead mature cells called ‘keratin’ and form a dense tightly connected layer which creates that outer protective layer. The wall contains a pigment line, a water line and a white line. The white line is closest to the inner hoof. There are no blood cells in this area, but there are living cells living cells under the keratin in the wall. These acquire oxygen and nutrients by fluid exchange and various natural cellular chemical changes that occur as fluid moves through the structure, usually from the internal on the hoof. Hoof dressings that are high in nutrients such as antioxidants are easily absorbs through the external keratin wall and will assist to feed the hoof at a local level the nutrients that assist in fighting disease and establishing good connective tissues assisting in a healthy structure.

The Frog

A heart shaped structure on the sole of the hoof, emerging from the heel. Its purpose is to move blood back up the leg to the heart so it can be re-oxygenated and refuelled with nutrients. The hoof’s actions have evolved to ensure that the blood circulation is effective for its build.

The Sole

Underside of the hoof.

The Internal structures of the hoof under the white line contain the underlying tissues, tendons, joints and bones.

How the Hoof Works

The hoof is an elastic, flexible structure. Studies reveal that the hoof changes shape to compensate for the contact on the ground between normal weight bearing and when there is added weight such as a load or a rider. When there is added weight, the contact of the hoof and the ground surface is increased, as the sole of the hoof flexes, causing more of the sole to come in contact, compensating for that additional weight.

Consider using products that Create a Healthy Hoof - use natural green friendly products that actually work.

Find Out More About the Products