THE BREEDING OF MULES 201 



taken as a class, we think that the mule by the 

 native jack is superior to any other class. This 

 conclusion is borne out by an experience and ob- 

 servation of some years, and by many of the best 

 breeders and dealers in the United States. 



"As the mule partakes very largely in its body 

 and shape of its mother, it is necessary that care 

 should be taken in selecting the dam. Many sup- 

 pose that when a mare becomes diseased and un- 

 fit for breeding to the horse, then she is fit to 

 breed to mules. This is a sad mistake, for a good, 

 growing, sound colt must have good, sound sire 

 and dam. 



"The jack may be ever so good, yet the result 

 will be a disappointment unless the mare is good, 

 sound, and properly built for breeding. First, she 

 should be sound and of good color; black, bay, 

 brown, or chestnut is preferred. Her good color is 

 needed to help to give the foals proper color, and 

 this is a matter of no small importance. 



" This should not be understood as ignoring the 

 other colors, for some of the best mules ever seen 

 were the produce of gray or light-colored mares, 

 as many dealers and breeders will attest. The 



