PREFACE 



This book is an attempt at arranging information use- 

 ful to the farmer, breeder and student. It is the out- 

 growth of experience both as a practical horse breeder 

 and an instructor. The book includes a discussion of the 

 economic usefulness, judging and allied subjects, early 

 history, a study of the breeds, breeding, feeding, care and 

 management of both horses and mules. Special emphasis 

 is placed on the management of the brood mare as well 

 as that of the colt from the time the mare is bred until 

 the colt is ready for farm work or the market. This in- 

 cludes a discussion of the methods of training, overcom- 

 ing undesirable habits, fitting, harnessing and the like. 



Because of the increasing popularity and field of useful- 

 ness, the mule is given prominence. This necessitates a 

 consideration of the several breeds of jacks, as well as 

 special suggestions on the care and development of the 

 mule-breeding jack, as not all jacks are suitable for siring 

 mules. 



In choosing the subject matter a wide search has been 

 made and it has been necessary to eliminate much valu- 

 able data, as there is quite an accumulation of material 

 upon the production, care and use of the horse. In this 

 elimination, the author has attempted to keep in mind 

 the needs of the farmer, breeder and student. 



The arrangement of the subject matter in a book of this 

 class is important. The outline employed has been chosen 

 because in experience it seems the most favorable for the 

 presentation of the text. Following a discussion of judg- 

 ing considerable space is given to the history and de- 

 velopment of the several breeds of horses, each breed 

 being discussed in a separate chapter. Farmers and 



