JUDGING DRAFT HORSES 227 



the ideal. The standard score on the score card refers to an 

 ideal animal. In judging each point record the number of 

 points that the animal falls below the ideal. The accom- 

 panying photograph, Fig. 15, shows the location of the 

 points described on the score card that should be observed 

 in judging a draft horse. 



General Appearance 19 Per Cent. The height, weight, form, 

 quality, and temperament are the most important factors 

 to consider in the general appearance of the draft horse. 

 Estimate the height of the horse. The height of a horse is 

 taken by measuring from the ground to the top of the withers, 

 and is usually expressed in hands. A hand is four inches. 

 After recording the estimated height, measure the horse and 

 record its actual height. 



A draft horse must weigh 1600 pounds. If a draft horse 

 weighs less than this and is of draft type, it is called a " wagon 

 horse," or " chunk." The best draft horse weighs a ton or 

 over. 



The heavy weight of the draft horse should be due to its 

 massiveness and great muscular development rather than to 

 fat. Great weight is desirable in a draft horse because it 

 holds him on the ground and enables him to secure a foot- 

 hold when starting heavy loads. 



Estimate the weight of the horse and record the estimate. 

 If possible, take the horse to a scale and weigh it and record 

 its actual weight. 



In form the draft horse should be blocky, well proportioned, 

 and symmetrical. It should have good quality, as indicated 

 by clean bone, fine hair, and loose skin. The temperament 

 should be energetic and the disposition good. 



