442 



Types and Market Classes of Live Stock 



draft horses. A clean appearance, so that every angle and Hne of the 

 joint is apparent, is very much desired. 



The requirements for hind cannons, pasterns, and feet are almost 

 identical with those in front. However, the hind cannons are always 

 longer and usually broader than the front ones. Also, the hind pas- 

 terns are seldom so sloping, and the hind feet are not quite so large or 

 round. There is less concussion behind than in front, but the stress 

 is much greater at the pull, hence it is proper that hind pasterns and 

 feet be a little more erect, in order to provide the necessary strength 

 of conformation. 



From what has been said above, the value of a properly set hind 

 leg, as viewed from behind, is emphasized. If the horse is "bow 

 legged," his legs will prove weak when the strain is put upon them. 



Fig. 167. — ^Heavy drafters in harness. This is the noted team of grays which 

 was invincible at the leading shows a few years ago. They were shown both in the 

 United States and Great Britain. Big Jim was the near wheeler in this team. Owned 

 by Armour and Company of Chicago. 



Walking on a crooked hind leg is comparable to driving a bent nail. 

 The force of the hammer bends the nail instead of driving it into the 

 wood, and a crooked hind leg bows outward instead of remaining rigid 

 and transmitting full force against the collar. 



Now that the details of the drafter's conformation have been de- 

 scribed, a word may be added regarding symmetry or proportionment 

 of parts. The fact is that some horses are good in their various parts, 

 yet fail to present a good appearance. What they lack is symmetry. 

 The head may be good, and the neck may be good also, but the two 

 may be joined at an angle which injures the appearance. The neck 

 may not rise from the shoulders as it should. The feet may be good, 

 but may be too small to be in proportion to the size and weight of the 



