CHAPTER XIX.. Testing a Horse’s Manners, Mouth, and Temper.

TESTING A HORSE’S MANNERS, MOUTH, AND TEMPER.

If we circle a horse with the long reins (see page 168), turn, jump, and rein him back, we shall be able to form a good idea of his manners, mouth, and temper, by the way in which he goes through his “facings.” We may, further, test him, by cracking a whip near him, touching him all over with a long pole, and gently prodding him in the ribs. As a final proof, we may make him lie down, in the manner described on page 153; when it will be easy to see whether he be actuated by a plucky spirit, or by a sullen disposition, which will, always, cause him to adopt a policy of passive resistance. The methods I have here, briefly described, are of great practical value.