|
Page 2 of 3
There are several prerequisites for a functionally sound hoof.
1. Generally, the front hooves have an angle of about 45 degrees and are round in the toe area, while the hind hooves are somewhat steeper, around 55 degrees, and more pointed in the toe region. This way, the front feet are able to carry the main part of the horse's weight and function as excellent shock absorbers, and the hind feet provide the spring and elasticity for propulsion (and the tip can dig into the ground).
2. A large part of the frog has ground contact, to allow for a feel of the ground, carry weight, and function as shock absorber. It is widest in the area of the heels; if you drew a line along the edge of the frog from tip to heel, the extension of this line should pass on the outside of the bulb of the heel. If it intersects with the bulb of the heel, the hoof is contracted (usually as a result of shoeing and/or improper trimming).
3. The hoof wall and especially the heels are barely above the level of the sole, and the heels not above the level of the frog, since otherwise damaging lever forces in the hoof can arise. 4. The sole is smooth and slightly concave; only in the area of the front toe does it help carry weight (about 1 cm or 1/2 inch is on the same level as the hoof wall).
5. The bars protrude no more than 1-2 mm (less than 1/10th of an inch) above the sole, becoming level with the sole around the middle of the frog. They function as skid brakes, and should under no circumstances bear weight (ie. grow to the level of the hoof wall).
Only if these physiological conditions are met can the hoof function in its biologically intended capacity as shock absorber and pump (it is part of the circulatory system, returning blood from the hooves to the body).
|
