8 



Farmers' linllcfin 1199. 



dividual has been fitted for showing, sprawling lingers may easily 

 mar the evenness and smoothness of the fleece. 



Keep in mind the impressions yon have gained of the animal when 

 yon come to the handling. If yon do this yon are not likely to make 

 a mistake in your decision. Practice in judging is necessary to gain 

 the correct touch. Pounding or clawing the animal is entirely out 

 of order. 



STEPS IN SYSTEMATIC JUDGING. 



The first step is to stand at a distance and get the general lines 

 and make-up of the individual. The first estimate should he care- 

 fully and firmly impressed upon the mind. Strive for a mental 

 picture of the individual, and fix the picture in the mind. 



Fig. 1.— Viewing sheep from front. 



It will be best to follow some uniform system in judging a sheep, 

 or a class of sheep. The following is suggested: 



While viewing the sheep in front, note the make-up of the head; 

 observe whether it is well proportioned. A ram should have a strong, 

 hold head, showing masculinity ; in the ewe a feminine appearance is 

 desired. Note the width and depth of the brisket, and the length, 

 shape, and general position of the front legs. (Fig. 4). 



From the side observe the size of the animal and the general style, 

 and notice whether the top line and the underline are parallel. The 

 body should be of good length and depth in the most desirable indi- 

 viduals. Take special notice of the way the individual carries its 

 head, whether the animal has the appearance of being sluggish or 

 full of vigor. It is important to get in mind the length of the neck, 

 its setting, and the relation of head and neck, body (or middle) and 

 rump to the total length. A desirable animal is well proportioned 

 in these respects. (Fig. .3.) 



