What is cow hocked in horses?

Cow hocked is a conformational fault in horses that refers to the inward curvature of the hind legs at the hocks, causing the hooves to be set too close together. This conformation can cause stress on the hocks and hind end, leading to decreased performance and potential for injuries such as arthritis and strain on the ligaments and tendons. In severe cases, cow hocks can even cause difficulties with balance and coordination during movement. While not all cow hocked horses experience negative effects, it is often considered a less desirable conformational trait when evaluating a horse's suitability for certain disciplines, such as dressage or jumping.