The tarsus or collection of bones of the hind leg forming the joint between the second thigh and the metatarsus similar to the ankle in humans: The hocks are the joints located on the hind legs, similar to the ankles of a person.

The hocks are very important in the movement and stability of a dog.

An anatomical abnormality in dogs in which the ankle joins turn out, causing the feet to toe inward: The disorder of spread hocks can inhibit the mobility and ability of a dogs to do certain activities.