You should seek the advice of your veterinarian if your pet is ill as only he or she can correctly advise on the diagnosis and recommend the treatment that is most appropriate for your pet.

The "hock" is a commonly used name for one of the main joints in the hind leg.

The hock joint is also called the "tarsus" and it is made up of a series of rows of small "tarsal" bones, one of which has a large swelling onto which the achilles tendon  inserts. 

The hock lies between the bottom end of one of the main long bones in the hind limb - called the tibia, and the top end of bones called the metatarsals. In some species (eg cats and dogs) there are several metatarsal bones, but in single hoofed animals (eg horses) there is only one. 

In humans and primates the metatarsal bones form part of the foot and the "hock"  is called the ankle joint

The hock is an important joint because it often gets injured and there are a number of disorders which can affect it -  such as osteoarthritis.  Strong ligaments around the joint keep it together and it is important that these don't get damaged.

If you notice any unusual swellings of this joint contact your veterinarian for advice.

Updated October 2013