Hounds

The area or fittings near a masthead where shrouds and stays are attached or supported.

On traditional spars, the hounds are strengthened portions of the mast that support the trestletrees or rigging. On modern yachts, the word is often used more generally for the mast area and fittings at the upper attachment of cap shrouds, forestay or related standing rigging.

The exact construction varies with the rig, but it carries substantial concentrated loads. Fittings, mast structure and rigging terminals in this area require inspection for corrosion, cracking, distortion and movement.