394 JUDGING FARM ANIMALS 



in front of the shoulders, or thinness of the neck, indicates 

 an unevenly fleshed and thin-conditioned beast. 



The forequarters of the sheep consist of the shoulders, 

 brisket and legs. In the mutton type a roundness and full- 

 ness in this part, above the legs proper, is highly essential 

 for good conformation. The character of the f orequarter to 

 some degree determines in what type or class a sheep may be 

 placed. 



The shoulder of the mutton sheep, while not a high- 

 priced cut, is regarded with favor by many. When well 

 laid in and covered with a thick layer of flesh, it furnishes 

 a fairly good, cheap roasting piece, especially if the blade is 

 taken out. In examining the shoulders with each hand, feel 

 for a smooth compact covering on top, with the points of the 

 blades fairly close together. The shoulder itself should be 

 neatly covered in all its parts, and especially over the points, 

 which frequently are somewhat prominent. A heavy 

 shoulder point is inconsistent with the best mutton confor- 

 mation. Four points are credited to this part under ideal 

 condition, but a large per cent of the animals will probably 

 score three or less. 



The brisket of the mutton sheep should project somewhat 

 in front of the legs, and have a width that will indicate a 

 large chest capacity. The brisket is an important indicator 

 of constitution. Note in judging, while standing facing the 

 front quarters, that the brisket is wide, with a well-rounded, 

 plump outline, slightly grooved on its underside. The best 

 examples of mutton sheep show much fullness of breast and 

 withers, excellent indicators of mutton character and vigor. 

 Some judges prefer to examine the brisket by placing the 

 sheep on its rump with the brisket facing upward, whereby 

 its rear part may be seen to advantage. 



The front legs of the mutton sheep should be straight, 

 short, and carried strong and well apart. Many sheep 

 from a front view, show prominent curves inward at the 

 knee joints. This is a bad conformation, because it is as- 

 sociated with a narrow or wedge-shaped chest. The legs 



