JUDGING BREEDING SWINE 547 



600 pounds and more. The most desirable size will quite 

 depend on breed influence. 



The frame of the brood sow is more expansive, with 

 greater stretch than in the case of the boar. The ribs show 

 the depth so important in maternity, while emphasis is 

 placed on length of body and width and strength of back. 

 This body, neat and smooth in its lines, should be easily 

 carried on strong feet and legs. The side view, in particu- 

 lar, should show a frame well covered, not in high condi- 

 tion, and bearing evidence of first-class reproducing ca- 

 pacity. With too much length of frame comes a tendency 

 of the back to sag. This is indicative of weakness, conse- 

 quently a strong carriage of back is desirable. The judge, 

 however, should not severely discriminate against a sow 

 heavy in pig, for the great weight within naturally pulls 

 down the back line. Also, old brood sows, that have raised 

 a number of litters, tend to sag in the back with age, but 

 young sows should show a frame especially strong. 



The breed characteristics of the brood sow need no 

 special discussion here, for what has been stated regarding 

 these features in the boar, will have quite a general applica- 

 tion with the sow. 



