When picking out the feet of a horse, which direction should one start?

Starting from the heel to the toe when picking out a horse's feet is the correct approach because it allows the person to remove dirt, stones, or debris effectively without causing discomfort to the horse. By beginning at the heel, you can ensure that you are not pushing any material further into the hoof, which could potentially cause injury or irritation.

This method also aligns with how the hoof is structured, allowing for a more thorough cleaning as you move towards the toe, which is typically more susceptible to issues like thrush or other hoof problems if not cleaned properly. Picking out the feet starting from the toe would unintentionally force any debris back towards sensitive areas of the hoof, which is not ideal for maintenance and hoof health.