The names of many pet parts are the same as humans (think pelvis, scapula, and femur), but there are a handful that are unique to animals. Check them out!
apron (or frill): chest hair
crest: the area of the back that starts at the nape of the neck and ends at the top of the shoulders
dewclaws: a vestigial thumb
dewlap: loose skin under the throat and neck, often seen in basset hounds
flank: the side between the last rib and rear leg
flews: upper lips
forequarters: the front section, which includes the shoulder blades, upper arms, and forelegs
hindquarters: the rear section, which includes the pelvis, upper thighs, and hind legs
hock: the sharp bend at the back of the leg, sort of like an ankle
keel (or brisket): the lower curve of the chest
muzzle (or foreface): the protruding area of the face that includes the nose, jaw, and mouth, often called the snout
pasterns: similar to the bones in a human’s hands or feet, these shock-absorbing bones are located in the forelegs and hind legs
prosternum: the part of the chest that juts out the farthest
rump (or croup): the rear end
stifle: the knee joint on the back leg
stop: where the skull ends toward the muzzle
tail set: where the tail attaches to the rear end
withers: top of the shoulder blades
The next time you bring your pet in for a visit, try using some of these terms to explain any health concerns — or just to impress your veterinarian!
