24 MANAGEMENT AND BREEDING OF HORSES 



clean ; and the pasterns clean cut and of medium length. 

 The foot, though inclined to be large, should be oval, 

 dense, fine in texture and sound. Perfect score for draft, 

 30 points. 



COMPARATIVE JUDGING 



In comparative judging, instead of comparing the horse 

 with a standard of perfection, we compare two or more 

 animals. To do this carefully examine and compare the 

 relative size, height, weight and the like; also the detail 

 characters of the horses in a class, to be placed in the 

 order of their merit. Make examination for soundness 

 when comparing quality. While the horses are being 

 moved to compare their action, note their temperament 

 and style. 



The horse which is superior in the greatest number of 

 these considerations and without notable fault will be of 

 the greatest service and will sell for the highest price on 

 the market; therefore, is the most desirable and should be 

 placed first. Continue until each horse has been placed 

 according to his merit. 



Examine the horse in his stall. — When purchasing a 

 horse, if possible, he should be examined in his stall. 

 Note the manner in which he is tied to the manger; 

 whether he has been chewing the tie-strap or the fixtures ; 

 how he stands in the stall, and his general behavior when 

 one steps to his side. Note the animal's behavior while 

 grooming, particularly along the abdomen, the back of 

 the forelegs and the front of the hind legs, as well as the 

 flanks. Harness him. Note the manner of taking the 

 bit; the general conduct when placing the head stall over 

 the ears; the harness over the back; the crupper under 

 the tail ; and when buckling the girth. 



The horse may now be taken from his stall. Note the 

 action as he is being turned around. In a few sale stables 

 there is a contemptible practice of introducing ginger into 



