PRATTS POINTERS ON THE HORSE 117 



and breed him to a mare standing about fourteen hands 

 high. Mules are not full grown before they are five 

 years old. The best mules have a good strong neck, 

 bright eye, broad chest, compact body and strong legs. 



The male mule is stronger than the female, but not 

 so gentle. The best height is about thirteen and one- 

 half hands high. 



A MULE'S 

 WORK 



Mules are excellent for farm-work, and 

 do all kinds in a manner that excels a 

 team of horses. In the mountainous 

 regions mules are indispensable. They are especially 

 adapted for army work, on canals, in mines and for work 

 where patience and steadiness are wanted. Mules are not 

 as fast as horses, but are not as excitable and can always 

 take take care of themselves. 



BREAKING 



AND 

 TRAINING 



The education of mules should begin as 

 early as possible. Train them first with 

 a halter and lead them until they are 

 perfectly accustomed to it. The reason so many mules 

 are irritable and unmanageable is on account of im- 

 proper training. It is the opinion of some trainers that 

 the more abuse you give a mule the better. This is a 

 mistake. Gentleness and kindness is as much a neces- 



