THE HORSE 



desired characteristics which are associated with it will 

 result. 



The mating of mares to pure-bred draft stallions is not all 

 there is in securing uniformity of type and conformation in 

 the offspring ; the feed, shelter, care, and handling are impor- 

 tant items in producing good specimens of any class of 



live stock. 



JUDGING THE HORSE 



Points in judging the horse. The heavy draft horse is one 

 of the most profitable classes of horses the farmer can raise. 

 In judging the draft horse, as in judging all farm animals, 

 these points are first noted: size, soundness, conformation, 

 quality, action, and condition. In noting conformation, five 

 main points must be observed closely: general appearance 

 or form, head and neck, fore quarters, hind quarters, and 

 body. These heads are subdivided into several minor points 

 noted in the score-card, and one must study them carefully 

 in order to be able to judge horses. 



General appearance. To judge the general appearance 

 of a horse, view him from both sides and ends at a distance 

 of about 20 feet. Ascertain in your mind the height and 

 weight, and observe closely the general form and conforma- 

 tion. The draft horse should be broad, smooth, and mas- 

 sive, with all bony projections well covered with flesh. 

 The skin must be soft, the hair smooth and fine. Care- 

 fully observe the action of the horse. The stride should 

 be straight, regular, long, elastic, and fast. The trot should 

 be straight, springy, and free. While watching all the above 

 qualities, the temper should be observed; the expression of 



