1. Outer Layer:
* Wall: The hard, outer part of the hoof that you see. It's made of tightly packed, dead keratin cells.
* Sole: The bottom part of the hoof, which protects the sensitive tissues inside.
* Frog: The V-shaped structure in the sole, which helps with shock absorption and blood circulation.
2. Inner Layer:
* Coronary band: The fleshy ring at the top of the hoof where new hoof growth starts.
* Laminae: Tiny, finger-like projections that attach the hoof wall to the sensitive inner layers of the hoof.
* Sensitive laminae: The blood-rich, living tissue underneath the hoof wall.
3. Sensitive Structures:
* Periople: A thin, waxy layer that protects the hoof from water and bacteria.
* Coats of the hoof wall: Layers of horn within the hoof wall that grow from the coronary band.
* Sensitive structures of the hoof: The sensitive tissues inside the hoof, including nerves, blood vessels, and the coffin bone (the horse's "toe bone").
The hoof is constantly growing, with new horn being produced at the coronary band and older horn being worn away at the bottom. A horse's hoof needs regular care, including trimming, to maintain its health and prevent problems.