48 METHODS IN JUDGING AND SELECTION 



is a universal indication of intelligence, docility, and thrift. 

 The size of the eyes, their prominence, brightness and ex- 

 pression should all be given due consideration as these 

 characteristics should be prominently developed. 



Side. — Viewed from the side, every part accessible to 

 the eye should be examined carefully. The general style 

 and symmetry, length and depth of body, chest capacity, 

 set of legs and any other special attribute of form or quality 

 peculiar to the animal under consideration should be carefully - 

 fixed in the mind from this viewpoint. No factor which 

 should be considered in the final balance of points should 

 be omitted from the first examination. This is of unusual 

 importance where the class of animals is large. 



Rear. — In viewing the animal from the rear the width, 

 fulness, and depth of form should be examined carefully as 

 well as the length, position, set, and shape of legs, especially in 

 the horse. After this examination is completed the opposite 

 side from the one first viewed should be gone over to detect 

 anything unusual or faulty in the conformation which would 

 give the animal an unsymmetrical appearance or depreciate 

 its value in any way. This is of special importance in the 

 horse, where a blemish or an unsoundness would be a serious 

 detriment. 



Action. — Action is of primary importance in the horse, 

 although in judging breeding animals of any description due 

 consideration should be given to this point. Animals which 

 have been pampered are often stilted in their action which is 

 not in keeping with strong prepotent reproducing qualities. 

 While it is desirable to have breeding animals showy in form 

 by having a reasonable amount of finish, this should not be 

 gained at the expense of depressed vigor or faulty action. 

 In judging breeding animals of any description each animal 

 in the class should be walked to determine any unusual 

 condition or fault in form and action. What may apparently 

 be an ideal animal in form at rest will be depreciated greatly 

 in value because of faulty movement or action. A breeding 

 animal should be useful for a period of years and a well- 

 balanced condition in form, constitution and action is 

 essential to this end. 



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