446 CHAPTER 60. 



because from a slight difference in the position of the leg, less concussion 

 and strain comes on them than on those of the fore-leg. (See Skeleton.) 



920. The Hind Feet. 



The same remarks apply generally to the hind as to the fore-feet. But 

 from various circumstances, into which it is not necessary now to enter, 

 the hind feet are much less subject to disease than the fore-feet. 



We may remark however that the hind foot is generally more upright 

 than the fore-foot and also narrower, and its lower surface or sole is more 

 recessed. On account of this formation its frogs are less subject to pres- 

 sure and wear, and hence in the shod horse, at least, they are generally 

 less well developed. The frogs are also somewhat liable to suffer from 

 thrush, probably because the hind feet usually stand in the dirtiest and 

 wettest part of the stall. In the fore-foot the toe and outer quarter are 

 the strongest parts, whilst in the hind foot the greatest strength is in the 

 quarters. 



921. The Tail 



The hair of the tail in the well-bred horse is distinguished by its fine- 

 ness and straightness. Figs. 13 and 13a. A thick, coarse, or curly tail 

 generally indicates want of breeding. Fig. 13&, Plate 37. 



In the well-bred horse the tail is carried firm and well away from the 

 hind quarters. There is an appearance of force and muscularity about 

 its root. It is set on almost in a line with the back-bone. When so 

 placed, it is capable of affording great leverage to the hind quarters. 



A tail well set on is a great ornament to a horse. The Arab (Fig. 13) 

 carries it almost straight out in a line from the spine. Fig. 13 repre- 

 sents an ordinary well-bred tail. In the under-bred animal the tail is 

 usually set on low down, possesses no muscular power, clings to the hind 

 quarters, and altogether looks mean. Fig. 13&. 



Fine curly hair is occasionally, though not very often, found in the 

 tails of even thorough-bred horses. 



922. The Sheath. 



The Sheath ought to be large and well developed. Horses with small 

 sheaths are seldom lasting or strong. 



923. The Dock. 



The Dock should be large and muscular. Horses with small docks are 

 seldom good for much. *I 



924. The Belly. 



The Belly is mainly supported by the back ribs. Horses which are 

 short in the chest, or long and loose loined, and at the same time great 

 feeders, often distend their bellies, so that they " hang down." Such 

 animals are unpleasant to ride, because the saddle has a tendency to work 

 forward on the shoulder. The same unpleasant result is produced when 



