190 



JUDGING FARM ANIMALS 



mule are mainly shown in the disposition, voice, ears, tail 

 and feet, otherwise this animal may not materially differ 

 from the dam. 



The height of the mule varies greatly, ranging from 12^ 

 hands for those used in mines, up to 17 hands for big 

 draft mules. A desirable range of height for the larger 

 type is from 151/2 to I6I/2 hands. 



The weight of the mule of the larger sort ranges from 

 1,200 to 1,500 pounds, though much heavier weights than 

 the latter are recorded, but are quite the exception. 



The form of the mule should be broad, deep, compact, 



Fig. 107. — "The mule is less square at the corners of the body than 

 the horse, and is usually narrower all through." 



with a comparatively large chest, short back, and full 

 flanks. The mule is less square at the corners of the body 

 than the horse, and is usually narrower all through. Yet, 

 as has been stated before, what is desired is a conforma- 

 tion approaching as nearly as possible draft horse form. 

 Quality in the mule has an important bearing on its 

 value. Fine, hard bones ; neat, strong joints ; a lean, well 

 made head ; and fine, abundant hair are much desired. Too 



