122 LIVE-STOCK JUDGING 



that fits heavy harness best and conforms to the lines of 

 the heavy vehicles to which the show horse is put. 



139. Conformation of the show horse. — His conforma- 

 tion is distinctive. In no type do good looks count more, 

 and beauty of form involves conformation. Furthermore, 

 certain structural features not only enhance general 

 appearance, but are essential to the kind of performance 

 required of the show horse. The head should be fine, 

 especially about the ears, and so put on such a shapely 

 neck as to permit of extreme flexion at this point, such as 

 takes place when the horse places himself when going. 

 Length, as well as shape of neck is essential to suppleness, 

 the show horse being compelled to bend himself readily in 

 every joint. On account of the full-made form the withers 

 will not be set up to the same extent as in the saddle horse, 

 but a long, sloping shoulder and a comparatively light 

 forehand are requisite to action. In the same way long, 

 sloping pasterns contribute to height and elasticity of 

 stride. A high-set tail is effective in setting off a high 

 stepper's performance, and it can only be had on a long, 

 level, smoothly turned croup. 



140. Quality, temperament and way of going of the 

 show type. — Quality in the extreme as an important 

 adjunct to finish and good looks, and a temperament that 

 is proud, bold and stylish in order that his performance 

 may be in line with his physical features and the purpose 

 to which he is put are important. 



141. The saddle type. — The saddle horse (Fig. 53) not 

 only has to carry weight of from 135 to 200 pounds or over, 

 but he is required to do it in such a manner as to afford 

 satisfaction to his rider and incur no distress to himself. 

 The various gaits at which the weight is carried serve to dif- 

 ferentiate the classes of saddle horses. Ability to support 



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