THE AMERICAN HORSE MARKET I95 



back, we have a near approach to the principle 

 of the arch, the strongest self-supporting figure 

 known to mechanics. A long back is a defect 

 in draft horses. The body should be round, with 

 ribs well sprung and extending well downward. 

 This gives good lung capacity and indicates that 

 the stallion is a good feeder. A horse cut up in the 

 flank is a poor feeder, and cannot stand any extra 

 exertion. 



A draft horse should be heavily muscled through- 

 out the hindquarters, for the hindquarters furnish 

 most of the power in drawing heavy loads. The 

 hock should be given more attention than any other 

 part of the horse, for draft horses go wrong because 

 of defective hocks more than from all other defects 

 combined. No hocks can be too good or too strong. 

 Viewed from both in front and at the side, the 

 hocks should appear broad, yet clean cut and free 

 from fullness. In front of the hock and slightly to 

 the inside, look closely for a spavin. Never buy a 

 stallion with a spavin, even though you pay a small 

 sum for him. The tendency for the development of 

 spavins is likely to be transmitted. Quality in the 

 horse is indicated by fine, short hair associated with 

 a soft skin, strong, solid tendons and bone that is 

 compact. 



After all these things have been looked after, put 

 the stallion to the test of walking. This is the only 

 gait to which the draft horse should be subjected. 

 Give strict attention to every movement. The feet 

 should be lifted clear of the ground, placed down 

 evenly and in line. From behind the legs should 

 be kept well under him, the flexion of the hock even 

 and in line, the bottom of the feet showing at every 

 step. From the side, his stride should appear bal- 

 anced, quick and elastic. His every movement 



