Dordzhi Nandyshev, about horses and dogs

Abstract

Dordzhi talks about horses and dogs: If the light of a candle takes the shape of a flower bud when it is about to extinguish, it is a good sign. It is also a good sign when the candle burns evenly and its light stretches upwards. There are many signs connected with horses. For example, if a horse has pointed fangs like a fox, it is a good sign. In the past Kalmyks knew horses much better. Horses with protruding chests are considered good. Other signs of a good horse is when the horse has a wide chest like that of a tiger, and its ridge resembles that of a khainag (a cross between a cow and a yak). Horses with a long spine are comfortable to ride because the rider does not shake as much. Regarding dogs, bitches usually have 6 or 8 nipples. Some taigan dogs have 7 or 9 nipples. Such taigans can run long distances. Kalmyk hounds bleed after running because when they run they scratch their long, loose ears with their paws. Dogs with a wide forehead are good at smelling and tracking.