Changes

The hooves in newborn foals are bilaterally symmetrical. Over a period of just a few months, forces exerted on the hoof during locomotion cause a visible difference between the right and left, as well as front and hind hooves. Thus, isolated specimens of the equine feet can be distinguished as follows:  

The hooves in newborn foals are bilaterally symmetrical. Over a period of just a few months, forces exerted on the hoof during locomotion cause a visible difference between the right and left, as well as front and hind hooves. Thus, isolated specimens of the equine feet can be distinguished as follows:  

* Front vs hind  

* Front vs hind:

**''Front'': The angle between the '''toe''' and the ground is approximately 45 degrees. The sole is circular in shape.  

**''Front'': The angle between the '''toe''' and the ground is approximately 45 degrees. The sole is circular in shape.  

**''Hind'': The angle between the '''toe''' and the ground is 50-55 degrees. The sole is oval in shape.  

**''Hind'': The angle between the '''toe''' and the ground is 50-55 degrees. The sole is oval in shape.  

* Right vs left

* Right vs left:

** '''Quarters''' (lateral and medial walls) are steeper on the medial side of the hoof.

** '''Quarters''' (lateral and medial walls) are steeper on the medial side of the hoof.