94 JUDGING FARM ANIMALS 



The arch of rib is best noted from in front or behind, while 

 its length and the coupling must be studied from the side. 



The flanks of the horse should be low and full, showing 

 a low underline. If the fore ribs are well sprung, and the 

 back ones are long and well carried out, as set forth above, 

 then the flanks will be full and the under line carried rela- 

 tively low. The more nearly the line between front and 

 hind flank parallels the foot surface, the greater will be the 

 digestive capacity of the horse. Further, low, full develop- 

 ment of flank with the draft horse usually accompanies 

 the heavier weight. Hayes refers to the "hollow of the 

 flank," which he includes between the loins, point of hip 

 and the end of last back rib. This space, he states, should 

 be as small as possible. If it is hollowed out it indicates 

 bad health, weak constitution or being out of condition. 

 "When the hind flank is cut up high, such a horse is some- 

 times called "wasp waisted," or "tucked up/' and is gen- 

 erally considered as lacking in endurance. 



The hindquarters of the horse are the great source of 

 driving power, for propulsion by the hind legs occurs 

 through the hip joint and pelvis. Care should be taken in 

 examining the hindquarters of strange horses, on account 

 of the liability of kicking. It is desirable first to survey the 

 hindquarters at a safe distance, such as ten feet from the 

 side or rear. It will be necessary to inspect the limbs with 

 care and this usually involves some handling. In this case, 

 the horse should be approached from the head or front 

 quarter. The word "whoa !" may be sharply spoken, after 

 which the hand may be passed lightly along the back, and 

 then over the croup and down the thigh and gaskin to the 

 hock and below if desired. 



The hips of the draft horse should be wide, but in har- 

 mony with general body proportions, and smooth and 

 heavily muscled. The most power may be expected, other 

 things being equal, from a horse that is heavily muscled 

 over the hips. Rough or bare hips are evidences of weak- 

 ness. Horses that show extreme width between the hips, 

 vr ; th more or less roughness, "generally stand with their 



