400 



JUDGING FARM ANIMALS 



legs of mutton is reduced, from which we may expect a 

 narrower hind end than it would be if the legs were widely 

 carried. If the sheep hocks in, then the toes will point out. 

 A space of three to five inches between the hocks, under 

 natural conditions, will give a satisfactory position for the 

 legs from a rear point of view. From a side view, the legs 

 from hock to ankle should stand quite vertical, with the 



Fig. 220. "One grasps the thigh at the twist with either right or left 

 hand, and feels up into the muscle, when examining the leg of mutton." 



point of the hock just in line with the point of the rump. 

 The legs are frequently carried too much beneath the body, 

 while some sheep carry the legs too far back, with the hocks 

 noticeably beyond the rump. Either of these positions is 

 to be criticized as lacking in strength. The bone of the leg 

 should be free of all coarseness, giving evidence of dressing 

 out with little waste. The toes should point directly for- 



