42 METHODS IN JUDGING AND SELECTION 



tions in the show ring, as they exhibit in one way or another 

 the possession or absence of the characteristics defined under 

 all subdivisions considered in judging animal form. These 

 two characteristics are inseparable from the viewpoint of 

 the critic. The form varies according to purpose or utility, 

 but if the correct form is fixed in the mind and the meaning 

 of quality is clearly understood the fundamentals of judging 

 are largely mastered. Gross faults in one or the other 

 means a serious defect, and consequently the show ring 

 judge is critical in his estimate of these factors. It is only 

 in judging the horse, where action is a prime requisite, that 

 the judge varies from these two broad standard qualifications. 



The essentials for successful student or show ring judging 

 are a keen vision in analyzing animal form, in the broad sense, 

 and detecting the most devious faults therein. A fault once 

 seen in an animal should be indelibly stamped on the mind and 

 the degree of faultiness clearly fixed. Unless such a plan is 

 pursued, the judge not only becomes entangled in his original 

 impressions but tiring of the judgment through prolonged 

 decisions is apt to render them even more faulty. A steady 

 and fixed purpose, alert detection of merit and faults, and 

 prompt, yet deliberate decisions are responsible for making a 

 successful show ring judge. 



Fundamental Requirements in Judging. — Judging involves 

 the possession of five attributes or attainments. These 

 will be considered in their order. 



Utility Requirements. — It is necessary to have a definite 

 knowledge concerning the use or utility of the animal. 

 Every factor or part directly or indirectly related to the 

 purpose or productive end should be mastered. Merit 

 as related to the type, breed, or class, must be firmly fixed 

 in the mind. Every requirement of the animal or animals 

 in question must be clear to measure value accurately. 

 This involves a broad foundation knowledge in animal breed- 

 ing and work, meat, market, show, and speed requirements. 



Keen Observation. —The accuracy of a decision in the show 

 ring, feed lot or stock yard, where many decisions are daily 

 intuitively made, is largely dependent on the powers of 

 observation. The good and the bad points, whether gross 



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