7 Heel bulbs
The two soft, rounded pads at the back of the hoof, above the heels.
Where is it?
At the rear of the hoof, where the left and right halves of the heel meet.
What does it do?
The heel bulbs are the outside of the elastic digital cushion. As the foot lands they are pressed in and let the hoof expand, which absorbs shock and helps circulation.
What to look for
Two rounded, springy bumps above the back of the hoof; they should feel symmetrical and elastic.
Discover more
Sources: British Horse Society · Extension Horses (US land-grant universities) · Extension Horses (US land-grant universities).