56 CONFORMATION AND ITS DEFECTS 



In this we quite concur, recognizing tliat a liack too short not only 

 brings the anterior and posterior limbs too much in proximity with each 

 other and reduces the base of support, but by diminishing the lenoth 

 of the muscles which act upon the limbs from the trunk and the great 

 propelling muscles of the back, materially reduces the capacity for 

 speed. 



Beyond this, the back, when unduly short, although possessing great 

 stability and power, lacks the suppleness and elasticity Avhich more 

 extended proportions afford. It should also be pointed out that the 

 length of the chest being in conformity with the length of the back, 

 which forms its roof, any deficiency in the latter will materially diminish 

 the capacity of the former. In this connection, however, some compen- 

 sation may be assured if the chest be deep and the ribs well arched. 



A back of too great length is an evidence of weakness, and is 

 frequently associated with legginess, lightness of muscle, and want of 

 stamina. It lacks solidity and resistance to the weight imposed upon 

 it, and under stress of work tends to become depressed and hollow. The 

 disadvantages of a long back are minimized when it is wide and muscular, 

 and supported by short, strong loins. Ample width is at all times 

 essential to a good back. Any shortcoming in this respect is identified 

 with corresponding deficiency of power in the back muscles, and narrow- 

 ness of the chest. When this region is very narrow the spinal ridge is 

 prominent and sharj), and liable to injury from the saddle, which is 

 always badly carried; moreover, the sides are fiat and the chest conse- 

 quently deficient in capacity. 



Loins. — The loins comprise that jiortion of the spine interposed 

 between the back in front and the croup and haunches behind. Below, 

 it is in relation with the flanks. 



" Whatever may l)e the work the animal is destined to i^erform. the 

 loins should be as short as possible, a condition of solidity important 

 to recognize, because the lumbar vertebras have no support laterally from 

 the ribs, as in the case of the backl)ones, being simply articulated one 

 with the other. Its shortness also favours the impetus transmitted liy 

 the posterior limbs to the spine, because it lessens the elasticity and 

 mobility of the structures through which the force of impulsion must 

 pass. As to the relation of the entire length of the dorso-lumbar region 

 the back should be Joyig and the loins short, especially in saddle- and 

 pack-horses." — Goubaux and Barrier. 



When the loins are short and the ribs approximate to the haunch, 

 the animal is said to be "well ribbed up". A long, weak loin, by 

 separating these parts, increases the width of the flanks and gives the 



