A Picture Guide to the Different Parts of a Horse

 
Natalie Alexeeva Getty Images
Here are the most common names for each part of the horse. These are sometimes called the points of the horse. When you talk about horses evaluate their conformation or work with them its essential that you know how to identify and say or write the correct words for each part. Scroll through the photographs for a closer look at each body part. Identified for you are the 
MuzzlePoll ForelockEarsEyesForehead
NostrilsCheekNeckShoulderForearmKneeFront Cannon BoneFetlockPasternBackBarrelLoinsFlanksGaskinStifleHockHind Cannon BoneCroupDockTail

Muzzle
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The muzzle is the part of the horses head that includes the area of the mouth nostrils chin lips and front of the nose. The muzzle is very mobile and sensitive. Whiskers help the horse sense things close to its nose and the skin is almost hairless. Beneath the skin is cartilage. 
Poll
PhotostockIsraelScience Photo LibraryGetty Images
The poll is the area immediately behind the ears and the underlying bones are the top of the skull bone and the cervical bones of the neck. In this area are many nerve endings and acupressure points. The poll area is where the bridle path if one is clipped begins. On some horses the poll is quite flat while on others it may be more prominent. 
The Forelock
Sven HagolaniGetty Images
The forelock is the tuft of mane that falls downwards between the ears above the forehead. The forelock gives the horse some protection from the weather and helps protect them from biting insects.  Some horses have very thick forelocks while others may be wispy almost nonexistent.
Ears
Emmanuelle BonzamiGetty Images
Your horses ears are very mobile and can swivel almost all the way around. This lets it tune into sounds it may hear beside behind and in front of it. Ears are flexible too although you shouldnt bend them as might happen when bridling your horse. A horse also expresses itself with its ears. For example if a horses ears are laid flat back watch out. Pricked forward ears means it is interested in what it sees or hears. Ears out to the side can mean the horse is relaxed but if its eyes appear wary it almost means it doesnt like what is happening.
Nostril
Lois NorrisGetty Images
A horses nostrils are very flexible.  Horses only breath through their nostrils. Cartilage holds the nostrils open and the nostrils can flare open to allow more air to pass. The folds and hairs in the nostrils help