Digitigrade anatomy: In animals like dogs, horses, and some fictional creatures (e.g., werewolves), the hind legs are structured so the animal walks on its toes (digits), with the heel (hock) elevated off the ground. This contrasts with plantigrade legs (like humans), where the entire foot, including the heel, contacts the ground.
Key bones in a digitigrade leg (from thigh to toes):
Femur (thigh bone)
Tibia/Fibula (lower leg)
Tarsals (ankle/hock, often elevated)
Metatarsals (foot bones, elongated in digitigrade animals)
Phalanges (toe bones)
Makes sense?
