42 THE ACTION OF HORSES. 



fair amount of ground with each step, but, above all, 

 be free, and performed with rhythmical precision, 

 the foot being planted firmly, and flat upon the 

 ground. This form of action is seen in well- 

 bred horses, and those which are full of energy. 

 The shoulders, knees and hock joints must be 

 freely flexed and extended, yet the action not 

 excessive. For hack and road work, this action 

 is superior to animals in which it is either too 

 high or too low. Bad action may be low ; 

 irregular ; or confined. If it is irregular, and 

 slovenly performed, no matter whether it be a 

 heavy or light horse, it is not advisable to 

 purchase. 



Loiff Action. 



This term is expressive. The animal does not 

 hft its feet far from the ground. The term " low" — 

 daisy-cutting — action is appUed to such horses. It 

 predisposes them to stumble, more especially upon 

 stony roads or uneven ground. Low action, if 

 accompanied by digging the toes into the ground, 

 is one of the worst kinds, and it will sooner or 

 later bring the horse to the ground. Horses with 

 low action execute very little movement with the 

 shoulders, knees and hocks. 



