22 ANIMAL MANAGEMENT. 



There should be a sufficient width between the branches of the jaw 

 (the jowl) to give ample room for the top of the windpipe. 



A small head is less weight to carry ; width between the eyes indicates 

 a good field of vision, and the animal is not so likely to be nervous as 

 one with less ample range of sight ; well-opened nostrils and width of 

 jowl give capacity for easy breathing during exertion ; while depth of jaw 

 and width between its branches show that the animal is possessed of 

 good masticating power which has an effect on digestion and con- 

 sequently on condition. On the other hand, the lop-ear and pendulous lip 

 denote a lymphatic temperament or paralysis of the parts, while the laid- 

 back ear and deep-set pig-eye with the white showing as it glances back- 

 wards are unmistakable evidence of bad temper. 



Although in no point of conformation are there greater differences to 

 be found than in the head and no part in which the influence of blood 

 shows more marked characteristics for good or ill, still in the purchase of 

 a large number of horses it would have to be a very marked and extra- 

 ordinary fault in the head which alone would cause the rejection of a horse. 

 Generally speaking, the worst fault as regards the head is excessive size 

 and weight, and although the dealer's criticism, "You don't ride his 

 head," is true in a sense, still, with a tired and possibly weak horse on a 

 long journey (common conditions on service), stumbling is likely 

 to be induced by this particular conformation. As an index of 

 disposition and temper, the head has always been the subject of remark, 

 and there is, as a rule, undoubtedly a great deal in its expression and 

 conformation which gives an insight into the general character ; the lean, 

 stag-faced head of the nervous thoroughbred, with prominent eyes, 

 constantly moving ears and nostrils expanding at every sight and sound 

 being a familiar example which most must have seen ; whilst the pig-eyed 

 animal with a bump on his forehead is a type commonly associated 

 with a wilfulness and obstinacy which call for equal determination on the 

 rider's part. 



The set on of the head to the neck is a matter of importanec as 

 regards the ease of control we are able to exercise over the animal, and it 

 is fortunate that the conformation most pleasing to the eye is also the one 

 which gives greatest power to the rider. Just behind the lower jaw there 

 is in a well set on bead a narrowness and looseness of the part which 

 gives the impression of lightness and free mobility, especially when viewed 

 from the side, though when seen from above (as when riding or driving) 

 it will be noticed that the junction is strong and well clothed with muscles. 



The ?ieck. — The set on, however, must betaken in conjunction with the 

 neck^ which offers several varieties of shape. The upper border from poll 



