ALL ABOUT DOGS
_A Book for Doggy People_
BY
CHARLES HENRY LANE
_Breeder, Exhibitor, Judge_
[Illustration: _Pellissier & Allen, Ph. Sc._
Chas. H. Lane]
ALL ABOUT DOGS
A BOOK FOR DOGGY PEOPLE
By CHARLES HENRY LANE
Breeder, Exhibitor, Judge
WITH EIGHTY-SEVEN
ILLUSTRATIONS OF THE MOST
CELEBRATED CHAMPIONS OF OUR TIME
DRAWN FROM LIFE
By R. H. MOORE
[Illustration: A variety of dogs.]
JOHN LANE
LONDON AND NEW YORK
1901
Copyright by
JOHN LANE
1900
RIGGS PRINTING CO.
ALBANY, N.Y., U.S.A.
_To his fellow lovers
and admirers of Dogs throughout the World,
THIS LITTLE BOOK
is respectfully Dedicated by the Author, in the earnest
hope that it may be the means of stimulating and
increasing their appreciation of the most
faithful, devoted and reliable
FRIEND
of the Human Race._
ILLUSTRATIONS
FRONTISPIECE. PHOTOGRAVURE OF THE AUTHOR.
-----------------+---------------------+---------------------+-------
VARIETY. | NAME OF ANIMAL. | NAME OF OWNER. | Page.
-----------------+---------------------+---------------------+-------
Staghound |Ruby |H. M. Queen Victoria | 7-8
Foxhound |Marksman |Pytchley Hunt | 11-12
Harrier |Traveller |Aldenham Kennels | 17-18
Beagle (large) |Ch. Ringwood |F. Warde | 21-22
Beagle (pocket) |Little 'Un |F. B. Lord | 21-22
Bloodhound |Ch. Nestor |Mark Beaufoy, M. P. | 25-26
Otterhound |Ch. Safety |Dumfries. Otter Hunt | 29-30
Great Dane |Ch. Hannibal of |Mrs. H. L. Horsfall | 37-38
| Redgrave | |
Pointer |Ch. Devonshire Dan |Miss Reston | 41-42
Setter (Eng.) |Ch. Rock |James Fletcher | 47-48
Setter (Gor.) |Ch. Marquis |Thomas Jacobs | 51-52
Setter (Ir.) |Ch. Garryowen |J. J. Giltrap | 55-56
Retriever |Ch. Right Away |S. E. Shirley | 59-60
(flat ct.) | | |
Retriever |Ch. Tiverton Best |Saml. Darbey | 63-64
(curly ct.) | Lad | |
Spaniel (Ir. W.) |Ch. Shaun |Col. the Hon. W. le | 67-68
| | Poer Trench |
Spaniel |Sandringham Bustler |H. R. H. the Prince | 71-72
(Clumber) | | of Wales, K. G. |
Spaniel (Sussex) |Ch. Bridford Giddie |Moses Woolland | 73-74
Spaniel (Black) |Ch. Bridford Brill't |Moses Woolland | 77-78
Spaniel (Cocker) |Ch. Ted Obo |J. Farrow | 83-84
Basset (smooth) |Ch. Louis le Beau |Mrs. M. Tottie | 85-86
Basset (rough) |Beauty |H. R. H. Prince of | 89-90
| | Wales, K. G. |
Dachshund |Ch. Wiseacre |E. S. Woodiwiss | 91-92
Greyhound |Ch. Real Jam |S. Woodiwiss | 97-98
Deerhound |Ch. Selwood Dhouran |Robt. Hood Wright |101-102
Wolfhound (Ir.) |Ch. Sheelah |Capt. Graham |103-104
Borzois |Ch. Alex |H. R. H. the |107-108
| | Princess of Wales |
Whippet |Ch. Enterprise |H. Vickers |111-112
Fox Ter |Belgrave Joe |Luke Turner |115-116
(sm old type) | | |
Fox Ter |Ch. Claude Duval |George Raper |119-120
(sm mod type) | | |
Fox Ter |Ch. Lory |Author |121-122
(wr old type) | | |
Fox Ter |Ch. Roper's |Sir H. de Trafford, |123-124
(wr mod type) | Nut-crack | Bt. |
Dandie |Ch. Blacket-House |Mrs. Rayner |127-128
| Yet | |
Skye |Ch. Ballochmy le |Sir C. Alexander, |131-132
(drop eared) | Bashful | Bt. |
Skye |Ch. of Ch. Duchess |Mrs. W. J. Hughes |135-136
(prick eared) | | |
Scottish Ter |Ch. Killdee. |H. J. Ludlow |137-138
St. Bernard |Ch. Sir Bedivere |Samuel Smith |145-146
(rough) | | |
St. Bernard |Ch. Guide |J. F. Smith |149-150
(smooth) | | |
Newfoundland |Ch. Wolf of Badenoch |Mrs. Ingleton |151-152
(black) | | |
Newfoundland |Ch. Kettering Wonder |Lady Tollemache |153-154
(black and | | |
white) | | |
Mastiff |Ch. Beaufort |W. K. Taunton |157-158
Dalmatian |Ch. Berolina |E. T. Parker |159-160
(blk. sptd) | | |
Dalmatian |Ch. Fauntleroy |W. B. Herman |163-164
(liv. sptd) | | |
Collie (rough) |Lochiel |H. R. H. the |167-168
| | Princess of Wales |
Collie (smooth) |Ch. Lady Nellie |Author |171-172
Old Eng. Shp. Dog|Ch. Cupid's Dart |F. W. Wilmot |175-176
Bull Dog (large) |Ch. Blackberry |Saml. Woodiwiss |181-182
Bull Dog (medium)|Ch. Barney Barnato |G. R. Sims |185-186
Bull Dog (small) |Ch. Lady Rozelle |Author |189-190
Bull Terrier |Ch. Sherbourne Q'n |W. J. Pegg |191-192
Boston Terrier |Turpin |Miss J. Tozier |195-196
Irish Terrier |Ch. Ted Malone |Mrs. Butcher |197-198
Airedale Terrier |Ch. Dumbarton Lass |A. E. Jennings |201-202
Bedlington |Ch. Clyde Boy |R. H. Smith |203-204
Terrier | | |
Welsh Terrier |Ch. Brynhir Burner |W. S. Glynn |207-208
Black & Tan |Ch. Starkie Ben |Lt.-Col. C. S. Dean |209-210
Terrier | | |
White Eng. |Ch. Eclipse |J. Walsh |213-214
Terrier | | |
Poodle (corded) |Ch. Model |Mad'me Dagois |221-222
Poodle (curly) |Ch. Rufus |Mrs. Robt. Long |223-224
Pomeranian |Ch. Koenig of |Miss Hamilton |227-228
(large) | Rozelle | |
Pomeranian |Marco |H. M. Queen Victoria |229-230
(med) | | |
Pomeranian |Ch. Brilliant |Jno. Duckworth |233-234
(sm med) | | |
Pomeranian (toy) |Ch. of Ch. & Pr. |Miss Ada de Pass |237-238
| Tina | |
Pug (fawn) |Ch. York |Mrs. Grelliche |239-240
Pug (black) |Ch. & Pr. Duke Beira |Miss C. F. A. |243-244
| | Jenkinson |
Schipperke |Ch. Zwarte Piot. |I. N. Woodiwiss |247-248
King Charles |Ch. Laureate |Hon. Mrs. McL. |249-250
Spaniel | | Morrison |
Blenheim Spaniel |Ch. Rollo |Mrs. Forder |253-254
Prince Charles |Ch. Victor Wild |H. Taylor |255-256
Spanl | | |
Ruby Spaniel |Ch. Jasper |Mrs. Woodgate |259-260
Japanese Spaniel |Ch. of Ch. Dai Butzu |Mrs. Addis |261-262
Sm. Toy Terrier |Ch. Mascotte Model |Mrs. Monk |265-266
Yorksh. Toy |Ch. Ashton Queen |Mdes Walton & Beard |267-268
Terrier | | |
Maltese Terrier |Ch. Pixie |John Jacobs |271-272
Griffon |Marquis de Carabas |Count H. de Bylandt |273-274
Bruxelles | | |
Toy Bull Dog |Rabot de Beaubourg |Monsieur Petit |277-278
Toy Bull Terrier |Lily |Author |279-280
Italian |Ch. Larkfield |P. Turner |281-282
Greyhound | Leveret | |
Norwegian |Jaeger |Lady Cathcart |287-288
Elkhound | | |
Afghan Greyhound |Shahzada |J. Whitbread |289-290
Thibet Sheep Dog |Siring |H. R. H. the Prince |293-294
| | of Wales, K. G. |
Esquimaux |Ch. Arctic King |Mrs. H. C. Brooke |295-296
Chow Chow |Ch. Chow 8th |Mrs. Faber |299-300
Dingo |Ch. Myall |Mrs. H. C. Brooke |301-302
Chinese Crested |Chinese Emperor |W. K. Taunton |305-306
Dog | | |
Lapland Sledge |Perla |H. R. H. Prince |309-310
Dog | | of Wales, K. G. |
Dogue de |Ch. Sans Peur |Mrs. H. C. Brooke | ...
Bordeaux | | |
-----------------+---------------------+---------------------+-------
CONTENTS
PART I
CHAP. PAGE
Preface iii
Introduction v
I. A Few Words About Dogs in General 1
DOGS USED IN SPORT
II. Staghounds, Foxhounds, Harriers, Beagles 9
III. Bloodhounds, Otterhounds, Great Danes 27
IV. Pointers, Setters, Retrievers 43
V. Sporting Spaniels, Basset Hounds, Dachshunds 69
VI. Greyhounds, Scottish Deerhounds, Irish Wolfhounds,
Borzois, Whippets 99
TERRIERS USED IN SPORT
VII. Fox, Dandie Dinmonts, Skyes, Scottish 117
PART II
DOGS USED IN WORK
VIII. St. Bernards, Newfoundlands, Mastiffs,
Dalmatians 147
IX. Sheep Dogs:--Rough Collies, Smooth Collies, Old
English 169
X. Bull Dogs, Bull Terriers, Boston Terriers 179
XI. Terriers,--Irish, Airedale, Bedlington, Black and
Tan, Old English 199
PART III
PERFORMING AND TOY BREEDS
XII. Poodles, Pomeranians, Pugs, Schipperkes 219
XIII. Toy Spaniels,--King Charles, Prince Charles, Ruby,
Blenheim, Japanese 245
XIV. Terriers,--Toy, Smooth Black and Tan, Yorkshire,
Maltese, Griffons Bruxelles 263
XV. Toy Bull Dogs, Toy Bull Terriers, Italian
Greyhounds 275
PART IV
XVI. Something About Foreign Dogs 291
XVII. Humours and Vagaries of the Show Rings 311
XVIII. }
to } Anecdotes About Dogs, Personal and Selected 322
XXIII. }
XXIV. A Few Words About General Management and Some
Simple Maladies, to Which Dogs are Subject and
Their Treatment 389
Part I
CONTENTS
PART I
CHAP. PAGE
Preface iii
Introduction v
I. A Few Words About Dogs in General 1
DOGS USED IN SPORT
II. Staghounds, Foxhounds, Harriers, Beagles 9
III. Bloodhounds, Otterhounds, Great Danes 27
IV. Pointers, Setters, Retrievers 43
V. Sporting Spaniels, Basset Hounds, Dachshunds 69
VI. Greyhounds, Scottish Deerhounds, Irish Wolfhounds,
Borzois, Whippets 99
TERRIERS USED IN SPORT
VII. Fox, Dandie Dinmonts, Skyes, Scottish 117
PREFACE
I am told, it is indispensable there should be a Preface to this
little work; but I am quite at a loss what to put in it. What I had
to say on the subject upon which it treats, I have said in the book,
and I am not aware of any thing I wish to add or withdraw. I can only
hope the perusal of the book may afford as much pleasure to my readers
as the writing it has given me, in recalling pleasant memories of
many friends, both two and four-footed, some of whom have long since
"joined the majority." As recording the impressions of one who has had
considerable practical experience with many varieties of the canine
race, and been brought into constant contact with the best specimens,
I think my book is somewhat out of the usual run of doggy books. While
in no wise seeking to produce a scientific treatise, nor yet a natural
history, in the ordinary acceptation of the term, my wish has been
so to write on the subject as to stir up in the minds of any of my
readers, unacquainted with the many charms possessed by dogs, a desire
to adopt some kind of dog as a companion and friend, and to confirm the
affection and regard of my multitudinous dog-loving friends, so that
they may be disposed to extend the borders of their fancy, and possibly
be interested and amused by some of the humours and vagaries of the
Show Rings or the Doggy Anecdotes. These, when they are not within my
personal knowledge, I have endeavoured to verify, so as to avoid the
"Fairy Tales" we sometimes read under the title of "Doggy Stories."
Before closing these remarks, I must express my deep gratitude, to my
friend Mr. R. H. Moore, who has given my book the inestimable advantage
of his talented pencil, in portraying so many excellent, and truthful
portraits of the "Lights of the Canine World," including more than
sixty "Champions," of their respective varieties. I am not aware that
such a number of Canine Celebrities has ever before been gathered
together in one volume, and they represent some of the best pictures
of dogs I have ever seen, even of Mr. Moore's, and, I think most dog
lovers will acknowledge that he is particularly happy in hitting off
the expressions, and catching the actual likeness of his subjects, most
kindly taking up the matter for me, when very much pressed with other
commissions, not only giving me the benefit of his valuable advice in
the selection of the most distinguished, and typical, specimens for
the different varieties procurable, but entered into the work with
the utmost ardour, and zeal; I feel therefore more indebted to him
than I can express, for enabling me to present to the Public such an
interesting and, I hope, instructive Picture Gallery of Dogs of the
present day. With these few words I commend my little book to the
troublous waters of public favour.
INTRODUCTION
I suppose, if we take the whole of the Animal Kingdom, in any way
associated with man, either as companion, or helper, there is none to
compare, in popularity, with the subject of these notes; but yet I have
often found in conversation, even with lovers of animals, very mistaken
notions about dogs, their varieties, characteristics and peculiarities.
I think there are more known and acknowledged varieties of dog, than of
any other of the animals, we are at all familiar with, and the ways,
sizes, appearance and characteristics differ so greatly that it is
hardly possible, one would imagine, to find any person to whom _some_
kind of a dog would not appeal. I wish, if possible, to say something to
stir up in the minds of some not hitherto keeping a dog, the desire to
do so, and whether merely as a guard or companion or with a view to
trying to breed some good specimens, and, occasionally, to send to some
of the Exhibitions of Dogs, which have so increased in number and
quality during the last twenty years, that I have frequently heard it
stated, that taking out Saturdays and Sundays, there is a Dog Show being
held somewhere or other on every ordinary day in the year!
I would strongly advise the obtaining a _well-bred_ dog, of whatever
variety is selected, as, not only is it more satisfactory to have about
you the best procurable type of any breed you may fancy, whether dogs or
anything else, but if you want to part with either the originals, or any
of their progeny, it is usually much easier to find purchasers and at
much better prices for what is called "pedigree stock," that is of which
the parentage for one or more generations is known, than when no
particulars or references can be given.
There are fashions in dogs, the same as in other things, and I can
remember a great many "crazes" for different breeds of dog. Fox
Terriers, which are smart, lively, game little fellows, well able to
adapt themselves to almost any circumstances, have had a long term of
favour, and are still largely kept, perhaps as largely as any breed of
their size; another element in their favour, is their not having much
coat, and so not bringing in much mud upon them, even in dirty weather,
if kept in the house. This, of course, has been rather against Skye
Terriers, which are otherwise capital dogs for the house, full of life
and spirit, but, to be kept in any order, they must be occasionally
brushed, or their coats, which should be hard and straight, somewhat of
the texture and straightness of a horse's tail, will get matted, and be
a disfigurement, instead of an ornament.
A great movement has existed, for sometime, in favour of the Irish
Terrier, who should be almost unbroken in reddish-brown colour, I mean
with little or no shading, what is called self colour. This is a "good
all round" breed, able to follow a horse, a trap, be a good guard or
companion, take care of himself in his "walks abroad," or have a turn at
anything which comes in his way in the vermin line.
Two more breeds I can strongly recommend to any in doubt as to a
suitable dog to take up as household guard or companion. These are the
Scottish Terrier, often called the Die-hard, or Aberdeen-Terrier, a
rather cobby, short legged breed, with a pointed head, ears standing
straight up, short back, and gaily carried tail, colour generally,
nearly black, grizzled, or brindled. I believe I brought, in 1868, the
first of the breed ever seen in England (at any rate I had not seen one
before), from a place called Uig, in the island of Skye, and quite a
character he was, and I could give many instances of his great sagacity,
and very quaint ways, during the many years he lived with me. I regret
to say he has long gone to the "happy hunting grounds." I shall say
something more of him amongst the "Anecdotes of Dogs," further on.
The other breed I referred to is the Dandie Dinmont Terrier,
immortalized by Sir Walter Scott. For intelligence, pluck, faithfulness,
and general adaptability to the ways, and wishes, of his owner, I do not
know any breed to surpass it. In many cases, I have known a strain of
Dandies kept up for generations, in families, and the affection between
the dogs, and their owners, is so great, that no money would bring about
a parting, and I have often seen pedigrees and genealogical trees of
well known strains of Dandies, taking them back a dozen generations,
and prized very highly by their owners or breeders.
Whatever the decision come to by an intending keeper of a dog, if it is
to be an inmate of the house, and is one of the smaller breeds, a box or
basket should be provided in some place free from draughts, and after
sprinkling either a little sawdust impregnated with disinfectant, or the
disinfectant itself, put in some straw for a bed, this is better and
less likely to harbour insect life, than hay, or any kind of rug, or
mat.
But if the dog is to be kept out of doors, obtain one of the improved
kennels, with the entrance at the side, which affords a shelter from the
wind, rain, and snow, and have a chain constructed with two or,
preferably, three swivels in it, that it cannot become twisted up. Many
a dog has been injured and even killed by neglect of these little
matters.
Of course, if convenience can be found, it is much better _not_ to tie
up a dog at all. No dog of mine, (and I have had hundreds during the
last twenty-five years, of almost every known breed) ever catches sight
of a collar or chain, except at a show, and, contrary to the popular
idea which I have often heard expressed by sympathisers with the dogs on
the show benches, dogs accustomed to exhibition work _delight in it_,
and the sight of a dog's travelling box or basket, or the rattle of a
chain, with the show label on it, is sufficient to cause the wildest
excitement amongst my dogs at any time, each dog hoping it may be his
good fortune to go to the show, which they look upon as great
entertainment.
I will undertake to say, that, if a dozen boxes or baskets are placed in
the yard, with the lids open, and as many dogs let out of their kennels,
you shall find an occupant in every box, within five minutes, and that
each shall choose the box he usually travels in! It is far better to
enclose your dog, or dogs, in one of the many forms of loose boxes, or
kennels, now procurable of so many firms who cater for dogs'
requirements, something in the way of a kennel, or sleeping box, with
railed in run attached. One of the neatest and best, at anything like
the price, (ninety shillings, if my memory serves me,) I have seen, is
made by Mr. William Calway, Sharpness, Gloucestershire, who has made
quite a leading article in his trade, of this kind of work.
Another matter to be attended to is, to give the dog plenty of exercise,
unless the weather positively prevents it. Many people seem to fancy, if
a dog is taken into the air, _in_ a carriage, or other conveyance, that
this is sufficient, but, _it is not so_, and the generality of dogs are
all the better, for at least two hours' walking exercise every day,
during which time, they will nearly, or quite, double the distance
traversed by their master or mistress, and perhaps get a drink, pick up
some grass, or otherwise amuse themselves!
As regards water, dogs do not drink so much as many people suppose, and
it is better to keep a supply, of course frequently changed, in the yard
outside the kennel, or sleeping box. Dogs, as a rule, like a drink when
going out or returning from exercise, more than they do in their own
quarters, and if it be kept there, particularly when two or more inmates
are together, it is almost sure to be upset, and make the place look
bad, besides being uncomfortable.
A very important matter is the feeding of the dogs. In these days, when
so many firms are producing biscuits, on purpose to cater for the wants
of the vast doggy community, there is no difficulty in getting some of
them, but, I have found, in a long experience with dogs, that, although
almost all breeds will eat dog biscuits--some even take them when given
whole, and chop them up like bones, _even dry_--it is better, in most
cases, to break them up, about the size of walnuts, and soak them the
day previously to use, in hot water, or broth, or even cold water. If
boiled vegetables, potatoes, cabbage, or some such, be mixed with them
afterwards, it is not only more palatable, but better for the dogs, than
the biscuit alone, and occasionally, say once in a week or ten days, a
little flour of brimstone, in the proportion of about a teaspoonful for
a fair-sized dog, should be mixed with the food.
We know, ourselves, that whatever our food, the most tempting that money
could buy, we should tire of it, if always the same, and it is precisely
the same with animals, so that, the more it is varied, the better, even
if the change is slight, and all who have had much to do with dogs, will
know that some dogs, and even some breeds of dogs, are very fanciful and
capricious in their appetites, and not always disposed to do well.
When dogs are "off their feed," a sheep's head, boiled, and then broken
up, and the bones, meat, and broth mixed with their ordinary food, will
generally "fetch" the most dainty feeder; other dogs are very keen on
oatmeal porridge, made as for human beings, but, of course, _with no
sugar_, which I may say should _never_ be given, _in any form_, to dogs,
as it is an unnatural and injurious food for them, although they are
usually quite willing to eat a lump of sugar at almost any time, but
they are _much better without it_. Milk (unskimmed, otherwise it is
likely to upset their stomachs), is also a capital thing for dogs in low
condition, or out of sorts. It is best given cold, or lukewarm, _after
being boiled_, as in its natural state it is thought liable to cause
worms, but, of course, this is not always the case. I have also found
"bovril" useful as a "pick-me-up," or appetizer, for animals on the sick
list or those who are "bad doers."
ALL ABOUT DOGS
CHAPTER I
A FEW WORDS ABOUT DOGS IN GENERAL
In these days of progress, when the tendency of everyone, and
everything, seems to be to go ahead and try to outdo all that has been
done by everyone else, in fact, as we so often see it termed, "to beat
the record," I think I am stating only the actual fact, that, in the
history of the world, dogs were never so highly thought of as they are
now, nor were they ever so catered for, in a variety of ways, nor so
generally popular.
And when we consider the many varieties of the species, differing as
much as is possible in the members of one family, and the appearance,
habits, dispositions, uses and characteristics, just as various, it is
not to be wondered at that they enjoy such an amount of public favour,
as it must be a strangely constituted human being to whom _no breed_ of
dog is acceptable!
The numerous packs of stag and foxhounds, harriers, beagles, and other
hounds, kept throughout the United Kingdom, not only are the means of
providing an immense amount of sport for our countrymen, but are, also,
directly and indirectly the cause of the great improvements which have
been effected in the breed of our horses, particularly those suited for
hunters and cover hacks, and, therefore, the cause, also, of the
circulation of a vast amount of money in our own country every year,
especially amongst farmers, millers, saddlers, hay and corn dealers,
trainers, keepers, kennelmen, grooms, helpers and a large number of
others, more or less connected with hunting and its surroundings.
To take another branch of the same subject, just consider what a large
body of men are interested and employed in the breeding, rearing, and
training of the vast number of high class greyhounds, which are kept in
some parts of the country, not only for the competitions in the
important national events, but, even for private owners, who make a
hobby of an occasional trial with their dogs. Then again, the great army
of keepers, kennelmen, and gillies, kept throughout the kingdom, to look
after and, in some cases, to breed, and break, the deerhounds, pointers,
setters, retrievers, and spaniels, which add so much to the pleasure of
a true sportsman's daily work amongst game of all kinds, from
deer-stalking to shooting black-cock, grouse, partridges, pheasants,
etc. (although many persons now-a-days seem to go on the principle of
getting a big total of the days, or weeks' "shoot," and care little for
the real pleasure of seeing the dogs "work," and do credit, or
otherwise, to care and attention devoted to their training), obtain
employment, and I have found them, as a rule, a highly respectable class
of men, often generations of the same family being in the service of one
family, and most jealous of the reputation of the master, his dogs, and
covers.
To take some of our other utility dogs, those of my readers who have
visited the cattle market of any large sized town or city, cannot have
failed to notice the dogs which attend the professional drovers there,
many of them rough looking enough, in all conscience, but, as for
intelligence, why, they are brimful of it, and willing and able to do
wonders with the cattle and sheep in the open, or on the road
afterwards, understanding the few words said to them, and eager to carry
out their orders, and although sometimes erring through _excess_ of
zeal, the reverse is seldom the case, and I am pleased to say (as I have
known and conversed with many of the men who are acquainted with my love
for animals, and know what numbers I have bred and owned), that the
greater part of them value their dogs, and appreciate their services, so
much so, that what might be considered really big offers, have
frequently been refused by them. One of them said to me, "What good,
sir, for me to take a ten pound note for 'Bess,' I couldn't do nothing
without she, and 'twould take me a doose of a time to make another larn
to do like she can, with the beasts, and that, let alone her being such
a 'pal,' and my missus, she _do_ think a deal of Bess, to be sure sir."
I have no doubt, that a great many varieties of dog have been pressed
into the service of the many and some highly accomplished troupes of
performing dogs, which the great increase of music halls throughout the
kingdom as well as the continent have brought forward. I have at
different times seen Great Danes, Scotch Deer Hounds, Dalmatians,
Poodles, and many members of some of the Terrier and Spaniel families
and hosts of undoubted mongrels taking part in these entertainments, as
well as occasionally Greyhounds and Collies, but these were, I think,
exclusively engaged in jumping competitions, when a sort of steeplechase
was arranged. These come under the category of "utility dogs," as they
assist their owners in gaining a living, and the same may be said of the
blind men's dogs, which are a great multitude, and enjoy freedom from
taxation, on the ground of their value to their helpless owners.
Another interesting class of utility dogs are those we see at so many of
our railway stations and other public places with a small box hanging
under their chins, in which may be placed any donations the charitable
are disposed to give to the "Railway Servants' Benevolent Association,"
or some other charitable object, and from the way the animals run up to
passengers, to be noticed, and wait, patiently, while a coin is found,
and placed in their boxes, gives one the idea they know what is going
on, and that the credit of a "good haul" at the end of the day, will be
in some measure reflected on the carrier of the collecting box! I have
often been surprised to see mentioned, in the newspapers, the large sums
a single dog has been the means of gathering, in this way, for some
good object, and, for aught I know, there may have been dogs hard at
work, during 1898-9, for "The Prince of Wales's Hospital Fund," or other
charitable objects!
One use to which dogs were formerly put, as "Turnspits," and another as
beasts of burden, I am pleased to say are no longer allowed by law. I
have often, when a child, seen them employed in the latter capacity in
the West of England, drawing small, usually two-wheeled carts, with not
only the usual market stock and trade utensils, but sometimes the owner,
in shape of a burly man or woman seated on the top, and not unfrequently
racing along country roads with the owners of similar vehicles, often
with two or three dogs to each, harnessed in tandem fashion, the noise
and excitement of the cavalcade being very great, and announcing their
approach long before their coming in sight. I am very pleased that both
these abuses of dogs have been abolished here, although as beasts of
burden they are still extensively employed on the continent of Europe,
and, I am bound to say, I have not seen them ill treated, badly fed, or
seeming neglected.
Of course, we know that in the Arctic regions dogs, as carriers, are
actual necessaries, and that locomotion, difficult and dangerous enough
there under any circumstances, would be simply impossible without the
aid of the Esquimaux dogs, of which I have seen a good deal, and handled
many. They have a dense double coat, are very wolf-like in expression
and shape of head, with small, pointed ears, oblique, sly-looking eyes,
rather long, arched necks, and tails with characteristic curl and
carriage. I do not consider them very sociable, but they would, I dare
say, be all right with persons they knew well. I fancy they are a breed
that has never been "made much of," (particularly in their native
lands,) by their owners, but usually get what is popularly known as
"more kicks than halfpence," and when "off duty," have often to go on
short commons, or do a little cadging on their own account, and being
thrown on their own resources, we know (on the authority of the late
immortal "Mr. Weller, Senr." evidenced in the case of his well known son
"Sam!") has a great tendency to sharpen the wits, and it is the same
with the Esquimaux dogs, who always struck me as very suspicious of
attentions from strangers, however well intentioned they may be.
CHAPTER II
DOGS USED IN SPORT
STAGHOUNDS--FOXHOUNDS--HARRIERS--BEAGLES
[Illustration: STAGHOUND "RUBY" ROYAL KENNEL ASCOT. HER MAJESTY QUEEN
VICTORIA OWNER.]
_The Staghound._--This is not a hound that will require a long
dissertation from me. There are but few packs in England which hunt the
deer at all, and still less that hunt the _wild_ deer; these are
commonly supposed to be the same as were formerly called "Southern
Hounds," and as the large tracts of land formerly waste and forest have
been gradually brought under cultivation, the places most available for
stag hunting have disappeared. They were celebrated for "tongue," and
made plenty of music as they followed the windings of the deer, but they
were not even moderately fast hounds, and it is a fact, that no very
fleet hounds can be musical. Devon, which has always been a great
country for sport, has, for many years, kept up a pack of Staghounds,
besides others, as we find "Nimrod" states "although the going in that
county is about the worst in the world, more hounds are kept in Devon
than in any three counties in England. In 1849, Devon possessed eight
established packs of Foxhounds, three of other hounds, the Staghounds,
and many a 'Parish Pack' kept by subscription." The general run of
Staghounds appear, both in shape, style and colour, like large
Foxhounds, and are commonly supposed to be formed from drafts from the
Foxhounds too large for those packs. The modern Staghound is about
twenty-four inches high, or more; they are seldom so level in colour,
shape, or kennel likeness, as you see in first-class packs of Foxhounds
and Harriers. The Royal Buckhounds are an exception; they are kept in
sound condition, and the best matching pack in the kingdom, of the
prevailing hound colours, including every marking, except the blue
mottle, thought to be indicative of the "Harrier cross." The various
colours need not be set out here, nor is it necessary, in a breed so
seldom shown, to give the points of excellence more fully than to say
that great muscular strength, plenty of bone, courage, excellent
scenting powers, and speed, are indispensable, as the quarry hunted is
usually in as fine condition as a race-horse, and nearly as fast, often
has been out before on a similar occasion, knows the country well, and
means giving his pursuers what is vulgarly termed "a run for their
money!" Still, it must be admitted, unlike the packs of all nations in
the middle ages, the Staghounds of our times are well disciplined and
steady, and the stag is more fairly hunted than he was, even in the
reign of Queen Elizabeth, so often described, (although I am bound to
say I am not included amongst her admirers) as "Good Queen Bess!"
[Illustration: FOXHOUND "MARKSMAN" PYTCHLEY HUNT.]
_The Foxhound._--I do not propose to go very deeply into the history of
this well-known and highly popular breed, or enter into its supposed
origin, about which there is so much difference of opinion. When one
remembers the great number of packs of Foxhounds in the United Kingdom,
supported either by private enterprise (like that of the late lamented
Duke of Beaufort, K. G., who, for such a number of years, bore the
burden of providing sport, over a large area, in the West of England,
four and five days a week throughout the hunting seasons; in later years
so ably seconded in his efforts by his son, the present Duke,) or by
subscription, we cannot fail to recognise the fact, that this breed of
dog has done much to keep sportsmen in touch with each other in our
land, been the means of circulating a vast amount of money in a great
many directions, and had a very important influence on the breeding of
Hunters and Coverhacks, for which the United Kingdom holds such a high
reputation. Beckford, who has been considered one of the highest
authorities on hunting, says:--"Without taking upon me to describe what
requisites may be necessary to form a good Prime Minister, I will
describe some of those which are essentially necessary towards making a
perfect Huntsman; qualities which, I will venture to say, would not
disgrace more brilliant situations, such as clear head, nice
observation, quick apprehension, undaunted courage, strength of
constitution, activity of body, a good ear, and a melodious voice." In
speaking of the Foxhound, he goes on to say, "If he is not of perfect
symmetry, he will neither run fast, or bear much work," and describes
him as follows:--"Let his legs be straight as arrows, his feet round,
and not too large; his chest deep, and back broad; his head small, his
neck thin; his tail thick and brushy; if he carries it well, so much the
better. Such young hounds, as are out at the elbow, or weak from the
knee to the foot, should never be taken into the pack. I find that I
have mentioned a "small head" as one of the necessary points about a
hound, you will please to understand it, as relative to beauty only, for
as to goodness, I believe large headed hounds are in no way inferior. As
to colour, there is much diversity of taste; very often the head and
ears are of a brilliant red, or fallow, with a white mouth and lips, and
a streak of white, technically known as a "blaze," down the head, a
white collar and chest, more or less black markings in blotches, or a
saddle on the body, and part of tail, white legs and belly. The rich
colour on head has a pleasing effect, and if the cheeks are tan-marked,
and there is the white "blaze" before mentioned, it gives a light
character to the head, or, if orange is mixed with, and under, the black
markings, such would form "almost a perfect combination of true hound
colouring." I may, fitly, conclude my few remarks on this interesting
breed with the following description of the desired points: The head
should be light, airy, sensible, and, at the same time, full of dignity;
it should have a certain amount of chops, and the forehead slightly
wrinkled. The neck should be long and clean; the least looseness, or
throatiness, is fatal to appearance. Where it joins the head, it should
be fine, gradually widening to the shoulders. A long neck is most
important, in the breed, as helping the scent, whereas, a short neck,
not only would impede action, but _pace_, also. The ears should be
close to the sides of the head and be set on low. The shoulders, long,
and sloping gracefully. Chest deep, and not too narrow. The elbows well
let down, in a line with the body. The forelegs well clothed with
muscle, "straight as darts," strong in bone from elbows to feet. The
ankles, or pasterns, must neither turn in, or out, nor stand back and
should be strong and large. The least tendency in the feet "turning
out," is most destructive to endurance and pace, if any deviation from
the straight line, they should rather _turn in_. In shape, they should
be round, not flat, or fleshy. The divisions, between the toes, should
be apparent. The soles, firm, hard, and very enduring. The back must be
straight, wide, and muscular. The loins strong, square and wide, with
deep, not flat, back-ribs. The hindquarters, very strong and muscular,
with wide appearance from behind, long as well as large. Straight hocks,
rather out than in, with strong, short bone from hock to heel. The stern
should be gaily carried, should end in a fine point, little feathered,
but not actually smooth, strong at root, gradually tapering to tips.
Black, white and hound-tan, is perhaps the best colour. When the black
is very prominent, and the tanned markings slight, the hounds are said
to be "black and white." When the colours are mixed, they are said to be
"pied." Hare, badger, red, tan, and yellow-pies, are the best, in that
order of merit. The coat should be dense, although smooth and glossy.
The well-shaped foxhound seems, owing to his well-proportioned frame,
much smaller than he really is. When thoroughly and closely examined,
his beauty and fitness for the work he has to perform, and the immense
amount of speed, strength, courage, and endurance, he so often requires,
will be fully appreciated by the observant spectator, even if he cannot
be strictly classed amongst "Sportsmen."
[Illustration: HARRIER "TRAVELLER" ALDENHAM KENNELS.]
_The Harrier._--While I am writing these lines, I have not the
statistics before me, but I am certainly under the impression there are
not so many packs of Harriers in the country as there formerly were. The
name of "Heirers," or Harriers is known to have been given to hounds
used for hare hunting in the time of King Henry V., but they were also,
occasionally used for hunting deer! Before this, the same hound was
known as the Brachetis, or Bercelettus, the diminutive from the word
"Brache." The breed, in a more or less coarse form, has, undoubtedly
existed for "ages," and it is thought by many, that it is more likely
Foxhounds were derived from it, than that it was the other way about.
The same colours are found amongst Harriers as with his larger and more
numerous comrades, but usually, for some reason, not disclosed, more of
the "pied," (particularly the hare-pied, yellow and white, shaded with
black or grey on the back or saddle) and the sort of dapple, or freckle,
generally termed "blue mottle," is thought to be peculiar to Harrier
blood, and that, when it makes its appearance amongst any _other_ of the
hounds, it shows a cross of "Harrier blood," somewhere in the strain!
This colour is often accompanied with hound-tan markings on head, and
black patches on body, although the latter do not conduce to the
beauty of the specimen. Some of the packs of Welsh Harriers, which for
scenting and working qualities, are very hard to beat, are so versatile,
that it is said they will "hunt anything with a hairy skin," unless they
are broken from it when young, and I have heard of a pack, in the
Principality, which regularly hunts hares, until Fox hunting begins,
when the "Green Coats" are exchanged for "Pink," and they take up the
pursuit of Reynard, as to the manner born! The height of the Harrier is
a matter of taste. "Stonehenge" puts it at under twenty inches; probably
the average is about eighteen inches. A well-known sportsman in
Dorsetshire, in 1871, speaks of the pack belonging to the late Mr. T. B.
Evans, of Chettle, near Blandford, which he considered _the best he had
ever seen_, and consisted of bitches fifteen and a half inches,
combining the blood of the packs of Messrs. Wicksted, Hurrell, Boughley,
and Sir Vincent Corbet. He goes on to say, "The education of this pack
is marvellous; rabbits are frequently left to feed in the kennel, and
occasionally, I am told, coupled to any reprobates of the pack, to shame
them from molesting them! I have hunted with these hounds, and have had
the very great pleasure of seeing them handled by that supreme master of
his art. I have seen these hounds pass by rabbits, as Pointers would go
through a poultry yard. I have watched them as they spread, like a fan,
when they were picking out a cold scent, the worthy master sitting
quietly on his cob, and when they recovered it, seen them stream away,
with voices "like a Peal of Bells," and as close together as a flock of
pigeons! I have observed how they followed all the hare's doublings,
and with the true Harrier instinct, cast back, when in perplexity, never
"babbling," skirting, or puzzling over other stains, but, carrying on
the line, until they pulled down their game, sometimes even, after a
forty-five minutes burst. Many sportsmen complain in the present day
that Harriers are becoming too fast to do their work properly, and that,
this has arisen from crosses with Foxhounds, the original variety, being
thought to date back to the old "Southern Hound," more remarkable for
their great powers of scent, and hunting quality, than for pace.
[Illustration: BEAGLE (LARGE) CH. "RINGWOOD" F. WARDE OWNER. BEAGLE
(POCKET) "LITTLE 'UN" F. B. LORD OWNER.]
_Beagles._--This is another breed which is yearly gaining in popularity
and is really a miniature hound, of which there are two varieties, rough
and smooth, differing only in texture of coat, and these are subdivided
again into different heights, ranging from under sixteen and over twelve
inches to under twelve and over ten inches, which latter are often
called "Pocket Beagles." The skull should be fairly long and wide,
slightly domed, with well defined "stop;" short and tapering muzzle;
open nostrils and largish nose; thin long ears hanging folded; soft
large eyes. No dewlap, but muscular neck, rather long, deep chest, for
size; muscular thighs; well boned and straight forelegs; round, cat-like
feet; stern carried gaily. Regular colours of Foxhounds, whom they
resemble in many ways, coat flat, dense, and close. These are quite
picturesque little creatures, and I have known them kept as pets and
companions, but, of course, they are supposed to be used for their work
as Sporting Dogs only, great numbers of them being kept in different
parts of the country, and hunted as packs, most of their followers being
on foot, and often accompanied by some of the sportswomen of their
districts, as their pace is not so impetuous as that of their larger
brethren. Frequently they call forth a considerable following in the
parts they travel over, and many cricketers and others ("Dr. W. G."
amongst others), who desire to keep "in condition" during the "off
season," habitually attend the nearest meets of Beagles as an agreeable
form of "training."
CHAPTER III
DOGS USED IN SPORT (_Continued_)
BLOODHOUNDS--OTTER HOUNDS--GREAT DANES
[Illustration: BLOODHOUND, CH. "NESTOR" MARK BEAUFOY M. P. OWNER.]
I have adopted the above title, instead of the more usual term of
"Sporting Dogs," so as to be able to include breeds about which there is
a difference of opinion as to whether they are strictly "Sporting Dogs"
or not, and propose in this chapter to say a few words about
Bloodhounds, Otter Hounds and Great Danes, taking them in that order.
Many of my readers, as well as I, can remember the time, within the last
thirty years, when _Bloodhounds_ were few and far between, and the
entries of this handsome and aristocratic-looking breed were at a low
ebb, even at the best shows. This is no longer the case, thanks to the
enterprise and zeal of a few well-known breeders, of whom stands in the
very front rank, my friend Mr. Edwin Brough, of Scarborough, who gained
some of his knowledge and experience at the feet of my old friend, Mr.
Edwin Nichols, of West Kensington, who, as a breeder as well as
exhibitor of Bloodhounds, Mastiffs and Newfoundlands, was the most
successful I have ever known and, in my opinion, quite unsurpassed as a
judge of those breeds and one of the most entertaining companions I have
ever met. Seldom when I came across him at any Dog Show, which was very
often in the days I was an extensive exhibitor, but that he kept up the
company to a late hour with his entertaining stories of men and dogs! I
much regret that, owing to advancing years, he has discontinued his
attendance at the gatherings, at which he had such troops of friends and
where he, under the title of "Papa-Nichols," was so universally popular.
It is a tradition that the Bloodhound is identical with the Sleuth, or
Slouth, Hound (from the word "Slouth" probably meaning "scent,") and
that he is of a very ancient breed in these Islands, used for tracking
"Moss Troopers" and other wrong doers in the olden days; the earliest
record of them occurs in King Henry III.'s time, when they were used in
tracking offenders. The most usual colours are shades of rich tan with
more or less dark markings on body and head, which latter is long, lean
and "peaked," the face thin and narrow, the skin loose and puckered;
long folded and pendulous ears; broad nose, expanded nostrils; long
thin, flabby and pendulous flews; deep and voluminous dewlap; sunken,
bloodshot eyes, and flexible, active stern, thick at root, tapering to a
point. The Hound strikes you as not over large, but with great
character, quality and much dignity, well knit; plenty of bone;
symmetrical, straight legs; wide across the back, full in body, and back
ribs; and game in temperament; with fine, deep sloping shoulders, and
enormously powerful hind quarters. The points associated with the
Bloodhound, are as follows:--Skull, long, narrow and very much peaked,
square, deep muzzle; ears, thin, long, set on rather low, hanging in
shapely folds close against the face; eyes, deep set, dark colour and
lustrous, lids, triangular shaped, showing the red haw; flews, long,
thin, and pendulous, the upper overhanging the lower lips; neck, rather
long and slightly arched towards base of skull, plenty of dewlaps;
wrinkled skin of face, very loose and abundant; short, close lying coat,
thin skin; sloping and deep shoulders, broad, muscular loins, well let
down brisket, powerful thighs and second thighs; strong, straight legs;
feet round, with well bent hocks, stern tapering and carried gaily.
Colours: black and tan, tawny and red and tan. General appearance that
of a high class, aristocratic and very dignified animal, who looks as if
he considered himself fit company for an emperor, and would not care to
associate with any but those belonging to the "upper circles."
[Illustration: OTTERHOUND CH. "SAFETY." DUMFRIESSHIRE OTTER HUNT.]
_Otter Hounds._--I should like just to say a few words about this
picturesque breed, made familiar to us by the paintings of Landseer,
Ansdell, Noble, and Frederick Tayler, and of which I had some beautiful
specimens before me at the National Dog Show at Birmingham, in November
1898. The colours are, usually, dark and light browns and tans, mixed
with grizzle, the general appearance somewhat like rough-coated
Bloodhounds, with just a dash of an overgrown Dandie about them; very
rugged and unsophisticated they look, but _quite charming_ to an
artistic eye, and convey the idea that, when they know what they are
wanted to do, they will not hesitate to do it, whatever it may be. Any
animals that have to contend with such a wily, active, and resourceful
foe as the Otter, either on land, or where he is still more "at home,"
_in water_, have to be pretty "spry" if they would give a good account
of him. Of course, these hounds are usually kept in packs, and do not,
as a rule, enjoy much human company, except connected with their
training for their work, and the exercise of it, but would be an
ornament to _any_ establishment, and, if I mistake not, were prime
favourites of his Royal Highness, the lamented Prince Consort, whose
ability as a sportsman, and taste as a connoisseur of all relating to
art and things beautiful, are well known to his many admirers. I
remember seeing the engraving of a beautiful picture, I presume in the
possession of H. M. the Queen, either by Richard Ansdell, R. A., or the
late Frederick Tayler, R. W. S., showing his Royal Highness in a rough,
wide bottomed boat, crossing a Highland loch, with a pack of these
beautiful hounds, some in the boat, some on the bank, and some in the
water, either just starting for, or just returning from, an Otter hunt,
and it impressed me very much. I may say, that it is very usual to have
some Dandies, Skyes, or other Scottish terriers, associated with a pack
of Otter Hounds, to assist in dislodging the quarry, when it takes
refuge amongst the boulders and rocks, so often met in the haunts of the
graceful Otter. The packs of these dogs are chiefly in Dumfrieshire,
Cumberland, Devon, and some parts of Wales, both North and South.
I have come across such a detailed account of the Otter, and rules for
hunting it, in a book _more than_ _three hundred years old_, but which
show the writer to be well informed on the subject, and a man of such
keen observation, that I venture to quote it in the quaint, original
language, hoping it may be interesting to some of the "sportsmen"
amongst my readers:--"The Otter is a beast well-knowne--she feedeth on
fishe, and lyeth neareunto Ryvers, Brookes, Pooles, and Fishpondes, or
Weares. Hir lying in, commonly, is under the roots of trees, and,
sometymes, I have seene them lying in a hollowe Tree, foure, or five,
foote, above the grounde. Even as a Foxe, Polcat, Wylde Cat, or Badgerd,
will destroye a Warren, so wyll the Otter destroye all the Fishe in your
Pondes, if she once have founde the waye to them. She dyveth, and
hunteth, under the water, after a wonderfull mannere, so that, no Fishe
can escape hir, unlesse they be verie great, and swyfte. A lytter of
Otteres, will destroye you, all the Fishe, in a Ryver, in two myles
lengthe. There is great cunninge, in the Hunting of them, as shalle be
saide in the next Chaptere; and also, it is possible, to take them,
under the Water, and by the Ryver's syde, both in trappes, and in
snares, as you may take a Hare, with hare-pypes, or such lyke gynnes.
Theye byte sore, and venomouslye, and defende themselves stoutlye. I
wyll not speake much more of their nature, but, onely, that they are
footed lyke a Goose. I meane, they have a webbe betweene theyr clawes,
and have no heeles, but, onely, a rounde balle, under theyr soale, of
theyr foote, and theyr tracke is called the 'Marke' of an Otter, as we
saye the 'Slot' of an Harte. An Otter, abydeth not muche, nor longe, in
one place, but, if she be befrayde, or finde any faulte (as they are
verie perfectlye of smellinge, and hearinge,) they wyll forsake theyr
couche, and shifte a myle, or two, up, or doune, a Ryver. The lyke, wyll
she do, if she have once destroyed the store of Fishe, and finde no
plentie of feedinge. From a Ponde-Garden, or goode store of Fish-Pondes,
she wyl not, lytely, be removed, as long as there is store of fishe in
them; for therein, fishes are takene, with more ease, than in the
Ryveres, or greatere wateres, but, inough of theyr natures. When, a
Huntsman, woulde hunt the Otter, he shoulde, first, sende foure
Servantes, or Varlets, with Bloodehoundes, or suche Houndes as wyl drawe
in the game, and lette hym sende them, two up the Ryver, and two doune
the Ryver, the one couple of them, on that one syde, and the other on
that other syde of the water. And so, you shalle be sure to finde, if
there be an Otter in the quarter, for, an Otter, cannot longe abide in
the water, but muste come forthe, in the nyghte, to feede on grasse, and
herbes, by the waters syde. If, any of theyr Houndes, finde of an Otter,
lette the Huntsman looke, in the softe groundes, and moyst places, to
see, which way he bente the heade, up, or doune, the Ryver. And, if he
finde not the Otter, quicklye, he may then judge, that he is gonne to
couche, somewhere, further offe from the water; for an Otter, wyl,
sometymes, seeke hys feede, a myle, or lyttle lesse, from hys couche,
and place of reste. Commonlye, he will rather go up the Ryver, than
doune, for, goyng up the Streame, the Streame bryngeth him sente of the
Fishes, that are above hym, and bearynge hys nose into the wynde, he
shall the soonere finde any faulte, that is above hym. Also, you shoulde
make an Assemblye, for the Otter, as you do for the Harte, and it is a
note, to be observed, that all such chaces, as you drawe after, before
you finde them, lodge them, or harbor them, you shoulde make a solemne
Assemblye, to heare all reportes, before you undertake to hunte them,
and then, he whyche have founde of an Otter, or so drawen towardes hys
couche, that he can undertake to brynge you unto hym, shall cause hys
Houndes to be uncouplede, a bowshotte, or twyane, before he come to the
place, where, he thynketh, that the Otter lyeth. Because, they may caste
aboute a whyle, until they have cooled theyr baulinge and
hainsicke-toyes, which all Houndes do, lykely, use at the fyrst
uncouplinge. Then, the Varlets of the Kennell, shall seeke, by the
Ryversyde, and beate the bankes, with theyr Houndes, untill some of them
chance upon the Otter. Remember, alwayes, to set out, some upwardes, and
some doune, the Streames, and everye man hys Otter Speare, or forked
staffe, in hys hande, and, if they misse, them, shall they runne up, or
doune, the Streame, as they see the Otter bende, until they may, at
laste, give hym a blowe. For, if the Houndes, be good Otter-Houndes, and
perfectlye enterede, they wyl come chauntinge, and traylinge, alongst by
the Ryversyde, and will beate, every tree-roote, every holme, every
osier-bedde, and tufte of bullrushes; yea, sometymes, also, they wyl
take the Ryver, and beate it, lyke a Water-Spaniell, so that, it shalle
not be possible for the Otter to escape, but that eyther, the Houndes
shall lyte upon hym, or els, some of the Hunts men shalle stryke hym,
and, thusse, you maye have excellente sporte, and pastyme, in hunting of
the Otter, if the Houndes be goode and that the Ryveres be not over
greate. Where the Ryveres be greate, some use to have a lyne, thrwen
overthwart the Ryvere, the whyche, two of the Huntsmen shalle holde, by
eche ende, one on the one syde of the Ryvere, and the othere, on that
othere. And, lette them holde the lyne so slacke, that it may, alwayes,
be underneathe the watere. And, if the Otter come dyvynge, under the
watere, he shalle, of necesstie, touche theyr lyne, and so, they shall
feele, and knowe, whyche waye he is passed, the whyche shalle make hym
be taken the soonere. An Otter's Skynne, is very good furre, and his
grease, wyll make a medycyne, to make fishes turn uppe theyr bellies, as
if they weare deade. A goode Otter Hounde may prove an excellente good
Bucke Hounde, if he be not olde, before he be enterred." Another writer,
of about twenty-five years since, in speaking of the Otterhound, says:
"He is bred to stand wet or rheumatism, to hunt by eye, as well as
scent, to mark the 'bubbles' when his quarry is 'down,' and join in the
chase, in the Otter's element. Failing that, he has to stoop to the
scent again. He must be undistracted by whoops and halloos of the
attending multitude, observing the huntsman only, and answering his horn
and cheer. With many a blank day and disappointment, he must resolutely
hunt and face a '_water demon_.' The points of the breed are laid down
as follows:--The head should, in shape, be something between that of the
Bloodhound and Fox-hound. It should show much of the gravity, and
dignity of the former, but rather flatter and harder in character;
forehead long and narrow; eyes rather sunken, shewing the 'haw,' but
large and dark in colour; nostrils large and roomy, nose itself, black,
and a good size, with rough-haired muzzle and full, hanging lips; ears
coated with coarse hair, without feathering at edges, but very large,
thin, and pendulous; neck fairly throaty, muscular, and of a good
length; chest more deep than wide; rather loose back ribs, but strong,
deep, long and straight; feet large, not close, and well webbed between
toes; muscular thighs; powerful sloping shoulders, with elbows well let
down; tail carried in a sloping position, fairly coated with hair,
decreasing towards the end; coat not short, but dense, hard and wiry,
very weather resisting in character; colours may be black, dull white
and creamy tan, or black and tan, black and white, grizzled pied, buff,
or shades of brown, or brownish tan."
[Illustration: GREAT DANE CH. "HANNIBAL OF REDGRAVE" Mrs H. L.
HORSFALL OWNER.]
_Great Danes._--I suppose, at the present time, it will be generally
admitted that the largest, and best, kennel of this breed is in the
hands of one of the handsomest, and most graceful, of the many
enthusiastic ladies interested in the kennel-world, and that one of the
most charming sights at many of our largest shows is to see a team of
these beautiful dogs, accompanied by their fair owner, and from the
crowds of the public I have noticed outside the rings, on such
occasions, I have no doubt they were appreciative spectators. The points
of the breed, as stated by a well known breeder and exhibitor,
are:--The head, which should be carried high, rather long, and not too
broad; muzzle broad, strong, and blunt; eyes small, with sharp
expression; neck long and arched, free from any dewlaps; chest
moderately broad; brisket deep, loin slightly arched; shoulders sloping,
elbows well under; belly well tucked up; legs straight, and muscular,
second thighs, long and strong; feet rather large, well arched and
close; ears dropped at the tips and carried as in Black and Tan
Terriers, small as possible in proportion to size of animal; coat hard,
short, and dense; tail strong at base ending in fine tapering point,
carried rather low, not much below curve of hindquarters. General
appearance, that of an upstanding, determined animal, with whom it would
be best to avoid a difference of opinion if possible, but one who would,
doubtless, be all right, when you knew him, and he knew you!
CHAPTER IV
DOGS USED IN SPORT (_Continued_)
POINTERS--SETTERS--RETRIEVERS
[Illustration: POINTER. CH. "DEVONSHIRE DAN" MISS RESTON. OWNER.]
_The Pointer._--Although this variety of dog has not, in the general
way, enjoyed the advantage of constant human society, to anything like
the extent possessed by some others, there is little doubt numbers of
the family have developed considerable intelligence, particularly in
connection with their work. The late Mr. Forster of Manchester, relates
that a Pointer belonging to him, when out with his master, would, if he
missed a bird, go up to him, seize hold of and shake his gaiter, as if
to remonstrate with him for not making better use of the game he had
found for him. And the late Revd. T. Pearce, no mean authority on most
breeds of "sporting dogs," said in speaking of Pointers, "I have no
prejudice for the Setter, over the Pointer, although I have had ten
Setters to one Pointer. If the ground I shoot over suits the Pointer,
the Pointer suits me, but I do not think he is quite so well adapted for
the gun as the Setter, provided the Setter is of equal talent and
adequately broken. But, it would be hard to find anything more perfect
than some Pointers I have shot over myself, or more thoroughly
intelligent, industrious and sensible. One of them, 'old Jesse' a
chance dog I had of Mr. Meir, for Snipe shooting, was a fine example
indeed. As his pedigree was not ascertained, he was not used for
breeding purposes, but was a fine specimen of some Yorkshire strain,
large size, and liver and white in colour. If I missed him in driving
off to my Snipe grounds, he would track my pony and gig like a sleuth
hound, and many a time have I found him close behind my wheels, when I
have, for miles, looked back for him in vain. One bright winter morning
I sat on a gate waiting for one Capt. Hull, my companion, and looking up
a long stretch of road, I observed 'old Jesse' coming along with a young
dog of mine which he had evidently invited to join in the fun, and so I
let the young dog work on Snipe, a game he was never on before. It was a
sight to see how 'old Jesse' tried to teach him the trade. I had two
pieces of Snipe bog two miles apart, and one bad scenting day he missed
my track and went to the wrong place, so that it was past one o'clock
when I reached the place to which he had gone. On getting there, which I
generally shot first, I saw 'old Jesse' standing stiffly on a Snipe. How
long he had been 'pointing' I cannot say. Frequently, as I walked up to
his point, I have flushed Snipe, and shot them, before I reached him,
but this made no difference to him, nor did it in the least interfere
with his steadiness. Once, on the occasion I have mentioned of his being
accompanied by the young dog, he snarled at the youngster for flushing a
Jack Snipe, and when he repeated the fault, went up and worried him
severely. As two of us shot together, he got into the habit of coming
to my room in the morning, to see if I was dressed for shooting, and if
I was not, he would go to my companion's chamber and accompany him, or
track him through the streets, if he had gone on, and I do not remember
that he ever failed to find him. 'Julie,' a liver and white Pointer
bitch, was another of my Pointers which showed great sagacity and
firmness. We have frequently lost her, for a considerable time, in a
high cover on a celebrated piece of ground called Keysworth, in
Dorsetshire, belonging to my friend, Mr. Drax, and at last we have seen
the 'sting' of her fine stern above the rushes, for she always held it
higher than her head. She was one of the most intelligent dogs I ever
possessed, and would retrieve any game alive. Though only in her second
season, she was the animal always sent out with young hands, and if they
ran to pick up their game, she would bark at them reproachfully. I never
had a Pointer before, that seemed to enter so keenly into the sport, or
to appreciate, as she did, the real and proper style of beating for
game."
The points of this well known sportsman (Pointer) are:--Skull rather
wide between the ears, with a pronounced drop at the "stop," the
occipital protuberance being also well defined, the muzzle being long
and bent at the nose, which is rather dark liver, or else flesh
coloured, eyes dark or light according to colours of markings, ears
rather fine, set on low and hanging flat to the sides of the head; neck
gracefully arched and quite free from overlaps, shoulders sloping, chest
moderately wide, and extremely deep, body powerful and well ribbed up
at the loin, forelegs dead straight, set well in under the dog, heavy in
bone, the feet being round and compact, hind quarters powerful, the
stifle being a little turned out and the hocks well let down, tail
rather short and tapering to the tip, coat moderately fine. Colours:
liver and white, lemon and white, black, or black and liver ticked.
SETTERS
[Illustration: ENGLISH SETTER. CH. "ROCK". J. FLETCHER. OWNER.]
_The English Setter._--The elegant family known by the above title, are
divided into three branches, called respectively English, Gordon and
Irish; each have their body of supporters, and many very beautiful
specimens of them all are to be seen at our best shows. Perhaps
Birmingham lays itself out most for the sporting dog classes, but now,
when there are so many large exhibitions held in various parts of the
United Kingdom, the same dogs are more often seen at the various places.
The following descriptions of each of the three branches of the family,
are taken from notes communicated by a well known gentleman in the doggy
world, to a work on dogs published some seventy-five years since. "The
head of the English Setter should not be so heavy as the Pointer's, nor
so wide across the ears. There should be at least four inches from the
inner corner of the eye to the point of the nose. In many first class
dogs, there is half an inch more. The nasal bone should be rather
depressed in the centre and slightly raised at the nostrils. The nose
and nostrils large, the nose dark liver coloured or black, moist and
shining. The jaws should be level and the teeth exactly level in front,
as nothing detracts more from appearance than the 'snipe nose.' There
should not be that fullness of lip, allowable in the Pointer, but, at
the angles of the mouth, the lips should be rather pendulous. The ears,
which are usually about six inches in length, should be set low on the
head, larger where they are attached, than at the tips, which should be
round, not pointed. They should never be pricked, or carried forward,
even when the dog points. The eyes should be large and sparkling, not
protruding, as in the King Charles Spaniel, but well set and full of
intelligence. The neck, long, thin, slightly arched at crest, and clean
cut where it joins the head, this last a most important point. The
shoulders should be well set back, the blades long, the muscles
well-developed throughout. Ribs not so widely sprung as the Pointer's.
The back ribs deep and fairly near to the hip bone. The chest deep and
moderately wide. The loins broad and arched slightly and the hips wide.
The hind quarters square, strongly made and the stifles well bent.
Cat-like feet are preferable to the 'hare' or 'spoon' foot. The round
foot, with toes well arched, distributes the power of the toes more
evenly, and is best suited for every description of shooting ground, in
fact, the Foxhound foot, and leg with it. The feet should be straight,
neither turned in or out. The toes should be well furnished with hair,
which, in the best breeds, forms a tuft between the toes and protects
the sole, being replenished as fast as it wears away. The pasterns
should be nearly upright and large, knees large, forelegs upright, and
in a standing position, the legs should be like good forelegs in a
Horse, the feet slightly in advance of straight, the hocks strong, set a
little in, if any deviation from a straight line. The stern of a Setter,
like that of a Spaniel, should be carried as much as possible in a line
with the backbone. The undulating sweep upwards, if exaggerated, would
become a serious fault. A Setter's stern cannot well be too straight,
and it should never be too long or it cannot be carried handsomely. The
stern looks better when the 'feather' commences near the root of the
tail and goes off gradually to nothing at the tip. A tail blunt, or
clubbed, is very objectionable. The coat should be of the finest silky
texture, moderately waved, but devoid of curl. There may be an
inclination in the coat to part down the back. Colours in order of
merit: 1. Blue mottle, or Belton greys, which stand work and are better
than; 2. Orange and white and lemon and white; 3. black and white;
4. pure white; 5. pure black; 6. fawn or yellow; 7. liver colour or
liver and white, which last too often indicates a cross with the Pointer
or Water Spaniel.
[Illustration: GORDON-SETTER. CH. "MARQUIS". T. JACOBS. OWNER.]
"_The Gordon Setter._--The points of excellence in the Gordon, closely
resemble those of the English Setter, but, I may observe, that the great
features of true Gordon blood are, that they can go much longer without
water than the generality of Setters, and that they show more variety in
their attitude on 'the point.' The length of their shoulders, their
large bone, and their development of muscle, enable them to race, and
to keep it up. The colour of the Gordon is a great point. The black
should be _raven_ black, with a blue, or plum bloom, on the bright
lights. The tan a rich red, of burnt sienna, colour. It should be, by no
means, yellow or tabby, or mixed with black or fawn, but rich, deep, a
sort of bright new mahogany. The cheeks, lips, throat, feet, back of the
forelegs to the elbow, front of the hind legs up to the hips, belly,
inside of thighs, vent, underside of flag, inside of ears, should all be
brilliant red, and there should be a large brilliant spot of tan over
each eye. There is no objection to a white short frill, although the
absence of all white is a good thing. White toes behind, are less
objectionable than white toes in front, and several of the very best
Gordons have even had a white foot, or feet, but this is not to be
desired if it can be avoided. The origin of the breed is not well known.
The late Duke of Gordon, at any rate, brought it up to its present
excellence. There is a suspicion it came originally from Ireland, and
the fact that nearly all the best Gordon bitches have had in every
litter, one or more deep red, or orange, whelps, leads one to believe
there has been an Irish cross. The Gordon Setter's stern is shorter than
that of the English Setter, but 'sting like.' Failing this, breeders
find they have that greatest trouble to the Gordon breeder, the 'teapot
tail,' or a long stern with a curl at the end, badly carried in action.
He is a long, low, Setter, his gallop noiseless, and he is remarkably
quick in his turn, from the power of his shoulders and loins, length of
his neck and general muscular development, a trifle heavier in his
head, shorter in his stern, rather deeper in his 'brisket,' more bony
and muscular than the English Setter, with a remarkably gay temperament.
'Always busy,' he is quite the beau ideal of a sportsman's favourite,
but he has his failings. He is more frequently 'gunshy,' more often the
victim of distemper, than the English, and, occasionally, so headstrong
as to be totally irreclaimable, these may be the faults of education,
and generally are so, but undeniably they are more often the results of
inbreeding or injudicious crossing.
[Illustration: IRISH-SETTER. CH. "GARRYOWEN". J. J. GILTRAP, OWNER.]
"_The Irish Setter._--The head of the Irish Setter should be long,
narrow, yet wide in the forehead, arched or peaked cranium behind. A
short, bullet head, a wide flat one, or one running to a point at the
snout, are very common, and very bad. The lips should be deep or
moderately so. The ears should be long, reaching at the end of the hair,
to the nose, pendulous and as if lying in a fold, set well back and low
on the head; they should never be set high, short in length, or half
diamond shaped, their feather should be moderate. The eyes of rich hazel
or rich brown, well set, full, kind, sensible and loving, the iris
mahogany colour, should never be gooseberry, black, or prominent and
staring. The nose mahogany, dark flesh, or blackish mahogany, never
black or pink. Even dark flesh is not so much admired, though it may be
with a good clear hazel eye. The whiskers should be red. The forelegs
straight, moderately feathered, the feet close and small, not round like
a hounds, or splayed. The hams straight, flat and muscular, and
feathered well with buff coloured hair, the hind quarters, altogether
square and active in make. The chest should be wide when the dog is
sitting on his haunches, and the head held back and full; too wide a
chest is apt to give a waddling and slow gait. The chest ribs cannot be
too deep. The loins, for speed, should be long, moderately wide, and the
belly well tucked up. The tail should be well covered with coarse hair,
curling along the tops, and hanging moderately, though bushy, from
beneath; carried on a horizontal line with the back, not cocked or
curled. In the field, or excitement, carried low, stiff and beating the
hind legs. The coat should be rather coarse, smooth or wavy, not curly,
hair of moderate length, on the upper parts of the body, the root half
tawny, the tip half deep sienna, a sort of blood red, but never showing
black on the ears, back, head, or tail. The legs and under parts deep or
pale tawny. White should not appear anywhere except in the centre of the
forehead and the centre of the breast."
It maybe interesting to some of my readers (amongst whom I hope will be
included fanciers of every breed, as well as some who have been hitherto
fanciers of no breed at all), if I set out here the show points of
Setters, taking them in their usual order, as "English," "Gordon," and
"Irish."
_The English Setter._--The head should be long and rather narrow, the
skull slightly domed and not very broad at base, muzzle long, square and
clean, not too pointed at end; nose moderately large, with wide
nostrils, ears fine, set on low and lying close to sides of head; eyes,
soft, bright and intelligent, not light in colour. Neck very muscular
and of fair length; shoulders clean and sloping, chest not wide but
deep; back strong and muscular; ribs well sprung and deep; powerful,
broad loin; thighs fairly long and muscular; stifles well let down and
bent; forelegs well feathered and straight, pasterns short, straight and
firm; stern medium length, well set on, almost in line with back, not
carried gaily or curled; feet close and compact, slightly feathered
between toes. Coat free from any curl, soft, wavy and silky. Colours:
blue and white ticked, white with black markings and white with liver
markings most favoured, but almost any others allowed except red, and
black and tan.
_The Gordon or Black and Tan Setters_ are supposed to have been so
called from their original connection with Gordon Castle Kennels. There
are, however, said to be many good specimens not in any way related to
that particular strain, the colour of which was tricolour, black, tan
and white. This variety is heavier than their English or Irish brethren,
and shows more of the Hound and less of the Spaniel. The head is
stronger, with deeper and broader muzzle and heavier lips, the ears are
also somewhat longer, and the eyes often show the haw; the black should
be as jet and absolutely free from white. The tan on cheeks and over
eyes and on feet and pasterns should be rich and bright and clearly
defined, and the feathering on forelegs and thighs should also be tan.
_The Irish Setters_ are higher on the leg than their English cousins,
although, in most respects, the conformation of body is precisely the
same in both breeds. Head long and narrow, muzzle square, lips
moderately deep, ears fine, set low and lying well back, giving a domed
appearance to the skull; "stop" well defined, eyes rich hazel or dark
brown, soft and expressive. Chest deep and ribs well sprung; shoulders
clean and sloping; loin somewhat arched, broad and muscular. _Coat_,
lustrous and rather plentiful, rich, dark red, with a golden tinge, no
white allowable, except a star on head or chest.
[Illustration: FLAT-COATED RETRIEVER CH. "RIGHT AWAY" S. E. SHIRLEY
OWNER.]
_The Retriever._--This breed is practically divided into two varieties,
one called The Flat, Smooth, or Wavy-coated, and the other the Curly;
both, as a rule, are black, but as far as my experience of them goes,
more specimens "other than black" are seen amongst "the Curlies" than
the others, but I think, undoubtedly, blacks, of either variety, are the
handsomest. Both breeds have been brought to a great point of
perfection. _In the Flat-coated_, Mr. S. E. Shirley and Colonel
Cornwall-Legh, and _in the Curly-coated_, Earl Melville and Mr. S.
Darbey, can show teams to make a sportsman "tear his hair;" often and
often, one of these varieties has taken the coveted prize for the "best
sporting dog in the show," and they are remarkable amongst the many
charming breeds of sporting dogs bred and established in this country,
for their very "matching character," so that, a high bred lot of either
variety have a wonderful family likeness, and on the many occasions when
I have had to take part in making the awards for the sporting and
non-sporting teams, it has been a great pleasure to me to see grouped
together, in different parts of an immense ring, teams of the various
breeds, often containing the best known specimens of them, quite
priceless, and which no money could buy, but most interesting to the
lovers of beautiful, and in many cases, perfect specimens of animals.
_Show Points of Wavy, Flat, or Smooth Retrievers._--_Head_ long and
skull fairly wide; ears small and lying close to head; eyes brown or
hazel and showing great intelligence; jaws long, and sufficiently strong
to carry a Hare; muzzle fairly large, with full open nostrils; teeth
level and sound; neck fairly long; chest deep and somewhat narrow;
shoulders clean and strong, set obliquely; ribs deep, and well sprung;
body long, with muscular loins; forelegs straight and strong; quarters
muscular; stifles fairly bent; feet sound, and well arched; coat long,
and straight, and of good quality; black, without any trace of white, is
the fashionable colour, but classes for "other than black," are
sometimes well filled. White and liver coloured specimens are sometimes
met with, but seldom shown. _General appearance_ is that of a strong,
upstanding, intelligent dog, of a decidedly sporting character, but
quite prepared to take on any class of work required of him as a
"general utility dog."
[Illustration: CURLY RETRIEVER CH. "TIVERTON BEST LAD" S. DARBEY OWNER.]
_The Curly-coated Retriever._--There has been much discussion as to the
origin of this variety, which, like that of its "Flatcoated" comrade,
does not go back, it is thought, before the commencement of this
century. Some think the old "water dog" we see depicted in the sporting
pictures of our ancestors (and which looked like a cross of indifferent
Poodle, with an inferior old English sheep dog, without much of the good
points of either variety!), others claim the Irish Water Spaniel, and
others again, the Poodle, to have been one of its parents in a cross
with the Labrador dog, in the same way as its flat-coated cousin is
supposed to have been produced by a cross between a Setter and a
Labrador dog. I do not propose to enter into this controversy at all,
personally I have had more to do with the Irish Water Spaniels (of which
my brothers and I have had a great many amongst us since we were lads),
and Poodles, of which I have had a good many and handled and judged
hundreds, and I think I can see traces of the Irish Water Spaniel _and_
the Poodle in the modern Curly-coated Retriever, but more of the former
than the latter. I think, undoubtedly, the Curlies are the hardest to
breed approaching perfection, but they are wonderfully "fetching," when
up to the mark. The absence of curl, too much hair on face, and the
openness of coat, are the faults I most often notice, and some fail in
the tail not being as it should be, covered from root to end with small,
tight curls, as on body. The sort of curls on the body may be described
as like those on a nigger's head.
_The Points for Show of the Curly Retriever_ are not much at variance
with those for the Flat-coated. But the latter is often the larger dog.
The head, should be not so wide, with strong jaws, and muzzle more
inclined to be snipey; the coat, a perfect mass of short, tight curls on
the body, legs and tail, but only short, smooth hair on the face--the
stern, quite straight and carried without any curve in it, substantial
at root, lessening in size by degrees to its point.
CHAPTER V
DOGS USED IN SPORT (_Continued_)
SPORTING SPANIELS--BASSET HOUNDS--DACHSHOUNDS
A good many I have known, make much and think highly of some of the
breeds of Spaniels. These are noted for their affectionate disposition
and docility. The least often seen, and therefore not much known, are
the _Irish and the English Water Spaniels_. The former should be dark
liver coloured, covered with curls, except on the tail, which should be
nearly bare of hair, and on the head a considerable tuft of hair, called
the top-knot, hanging down over the eyes and face, so as to almost hide
the former. There is something very comical, and quite "Hibernian,"
about the look of this breed, and they always appear to be open for any
amount of fun, but they are also grand workers, and for duck-shooting,
and retrieving in general, they are above the average in achievements,
as they are above most of their fellows in size. _The English Variety_
is also a capital all-round useful dog, generally roan or dark coloured
in ground, with sometimes spots or markings on head and body, also
covered with curls, and looks best with tail moderately docked. He gives
you the idea of a "business dog," and is very lively and ready for work
of almost any sporting kind, and can stand a deal of it. Another of the
family I am very partial to and have sometimes met with and kept as a
companion, is the Clumber. I think this is the most aristocratic-looking
of the sporting varieties of the breed, and should be a creamy white,
with patches of lemon or light orange-tan, about the head and body.
Either the tactics of the sportsmen of the present day are too rapid, or
for some other cause, but there certainly are not so many of the breed
to be seen now as there were some fifteen or twenty years since, but I
am glad to see the present Duke of Newcastle is keeping up the breed at
Clumber, where it is supposed to have been originally produced, and that
there are still a few kennels in the country, where they are breeding
some of these beautiful dogs, for I contend that a Clumber, in good form
and well-groomed (when his coat will have quite a bloom on it), is one
of the handsomest dogs a sportsman can wish to accompany him, and
although his build and formation are not suited for a high rate of
speed, he can get over a good deal of ground in the course of the day,
and render some useful service to his owner and his friends. In that
celebrated book, "The Master of the Game," preserved in the British
Museum, and attributed to a royal author, being supposed to be written
by a son of King Edward III. (who died in 1402), the Spaniel is spoken
of as "Saynolfe," no doubt a term intended for "Spaynolfe," and is
described as one of the hounds used for hawking, and called a Spaynel,
"because the nature of him cometh from Spain, notwithstanding they are
to be found in other countries," and such hounds, the author
declares, have many good customs and evil. He insists that a good hound
for hawking should have a large head and body, and that he should be of
a "fair hewe," white or tawne, and not too "jough," that is, hairy or
rough, but, his tail should be "rough," or feathered; he goes on to
describe the proper temperament, as a sportsman of the present age would
speak of a modern Clumber, leaving out one of its greatest merits, its
_silence_, or muteness, in work, however excited, so much to be desired.
A great deal of sport may be had over a brace of Clumbers, which are as
much as a sportsman can do with, particularly with a Retriever to look
after the "killed and wounded."
I have also, occasionally, seen a specimen of the Sussex Spaniel, which
are rare dogs for work, made a house pet of. They should be rich copper
colour, and are very showy and distinguished looking in appearance,
strong and muscular in build, more active than you would give them
credit for, by their looks, and possessed of much intelligence and
affection for their friends, good guards, and well able to take their
own parts in any row, seldom coming off worst, even with larger
antagonists. They have been brought to great perfection of late years. I
should say there are some as good as any ever seen, to be met with at
the present day, and especially at the well known Bridford Kennels in
Devon. I think they are rather growing in public favour, to the reverse
being the case; I often see what I may call "the _Field Spaniel_
proper," the old glossy black, kept as a companion; the very long
backed, and short-legged type, now in favour, don't strike one as being
able to stand so much hard work, in the covers, as the more old
fashioned sort, but they are, many of them, very beautiful dogs, and of
high quality, and, what is also of importance to breeders, they command
very high prices. I heard of an instance, not very long since, when a
buyer was found for five or six specimens of the Black Field Spaniel, at
£1,100, and another gave £400 for a single dog. I know all the three
parties, that is, the seller and the two buyers, in these transactions,
and believe them to be _bonâ fide_ and true, in substance and fact, so
that Spaniel breeding evidently _can_ be made to pay. Although I
sometimes see some of the old liver and white, roan, blue and black
Spaniels about, I certainly think they are not so popular as they were
some years since. As a rule they are tractable, good tempered, "born
sportsmen," particularly fond of a ramble amongst country lanes and
hedgerows, and capital companions for all, attaching themselves readily
to ladies and children, and making themselves "at home" as members of
the household, though always ready for their own proper work, outside,
when called upon.
[Illustration: CLUMBER-SPANIEL, "SANDRINGHAM-BUSTLER". H. R. H. PRINCE
of WALES. OWNER.]
_Sporting Spaniel Points._--I will here give the show points of the
several Sporting Spaniels, commencing with the _Clumber_. The points of
this breed are as follows:--He should be long, low, and heavy, weight
varies, but averages about forty to forty-five pounds. Colour, white, of
a creamy shade, with orange or lemon markings; actual liver colour, or
the very pale lemon, once made a point of, are now objected to by some
breeders of the present day. Height should not be over eighteen or
twenty inches. Legs, both short and strong, in fact, so much so that,
with his deep, well-coated body, he shows little "daylight" below him,
as he stands or walks. Head, large, long, coloured to a line under the
eyes, and showing a "blaze" up the face. Eyes, rather small for size of
head, sunken, pensive, and thoughtful. Nose, dark flesh, or liver,
coloured. Ears, large and much feathered, below, where the fleshy part
of the ear ends. Neck, long, strong, and muscular. Back, straight and
long. Chest, wide, also the shoulders, and substantial, likewise the
forearm, which is very heavy for his size. Hocks, and hind quarters,
large, bony, and very muscular. Loins, not arched, but straight. Ribs,
round and prominent, back-ribs, in particular, very deep. Stern, set on
low, looks best "docked," as is usually the case, with a little hair
hanging at the fag end. Coat should be not too full in quantity, but
very straight, silky, shining, and soft, in texture. The appearance and
general character being that of a high class, dignified specimen of the
sporting dog, well able to do all that can be reasonably required of
him, but with no idea of being dictated to, hurried, or "put out of the
way," by any one.
[Illustration: IRISH WATER SPANIEL. CH. "SHAUN". COL. THE HON. W. LE
POER TRENCH. OWNER.]
_The Irish Water Spaniel._--The head of the Irish Water Spaniel is
rather large, forehead prominent, face perfectly smooth from eyes down,
ears from twenty-four to twenty-six inches long from end to end; head
should be crowned with a well-defined top-knot, not straggling across,
like the common Water Dog, but coming down in a peak on the forehead.
The body should be covered with small, crisp curls, which often become
draggled in the moulting season; the tail, should be round and
"rat-like," without feather, rather short than the reverse, and as stiff
as a ramrod. Colour, pure puce-shaded liver, without any white. Height,
about from twenty-two to twenty-two and a half inches, seldom more when
pure bred.
_English Water Spaniel._--The following description of this breed, which
is a very great favourite of mine, and I regret to say seems to be
growing more scarce, year by year, is from the pen of my old friend, Mr.
A. W. Langdale, who was counted an authority on Spaniels
generally:--"Young breeders and judges should have before them this
fact, that _Colour_ should be a secondary matter with the English Water
Spaniel, and the latter should never pass over a liver and white dog, in
favour of a whole coloured liver, provided the liver and white is a
well-made specimen of his breed. The weight, again, should not exceed
forty pounds, and his height nineteen inches, his ears may be fairly
long, and covered all over with curl; also the body, not the close curl
of his Irish brother, but one somewhat looser, and more straggly; his
head is broad and long, with piercing eyes, his legs are well feathered
behind, as well as in front, and there is no doubt that the feather,
which in a ticked dog, comes out from each and every liver spot in front
of the forelegs, has much to do with his power of endurance in water.
They may be called 'natural retrievers,' as no dog is easier taught."
[Illustration: SUSSEX-SPANIEL CH. "BRIDFORD GIDDIE". MOSES WOOLLAND,
OWNER.]
_The Sussex Spaniel._--He should be of a deep golden liver colour, and
should weigh about thirty-four pounds. His head should be long and
heavy, his eye large, and languishing, his forehead projecting over the
eye, the muzzle square, the lips rather pendulous, his mouth large, and
his underjaw rather recedes from the upper jaw. His ears should be large
and well furnished with silky hair, they should be small, or narrow,
where they spring from the head, and large, or lobe shaped, at the base;
they should be set low down, and hang close to the cheeks. The nostrils
should be large, the nose large and liver-coloured. The neck should be
strong and muscular, with the crest a little arched. The chest, should
be wide, the shoulders well thrown back, the body, long, and round. The
legs should be short and strong, well flewed to the foot, before and
behind. The feet, which are nearly always good in a Spaniel, should be
round, well arched, and abundantly furnished with feather. The loin
should be very strong, the back ribs very deep and round; the tail,
docked to about nine inches, and well-feathered, should be set low, and
have a downward action. The proper carriage of the tail marks the
Spaniel's purity, as much as anything. The coat should be waved, not
curled, and as already said, of a golden liver colour.
[Illustration: BLACK-SPANIEL. CH. "BRIDFORD-BRILLIANT". M. WOOLLAND.
OWNER.]
_The Black Spaniel._--The following description of the points required
in this popular variety, are laid down by my friend, Mr. T. Jacobs, of
Newton Abbot, who is, as far as I know, about the most successful
breeder and exhibitor of them, during the last twenty-five years, he
says:--"My standard is as follows: Pleasing temper I always look to
first, never breed from a bad tempered sporting dog, every sportsman
knows what a nuisance they are. A long body, short legs, with plenty of
bone and feather, a perfectly smooth, satin-like coat, with no
inclination to wave, or curl, moderately long. Ears, covered with long,
silky hair, not ringlets, well set, low down, and hung close to the
cheeks, small, or narrow, where they spring from the head, and large and
lobe shaped, at the base, well furnished with hair on the inside
leather. A long head, not 'snipey,' or heavy, like the Clumber; dark,
pleasing eye, a yellow eye indicates bad temper, and should be avoided.
Level mouth, not 'pig-jawed,' or under hung, but I prefer the former
fault to the latter, which prevails, I am sorry to see, in some of our
present show dogs. Breeders should avoid them as stock dogs. A long
neck, slightly arched, well clothed with muscle. Strong across the
loins. Ribs well sprung, and barrel-shaped. Belly, well clothed with
long hair and not tucked up, like the Greyhound, a common fault. Broad
chest, well clothed with muscle and feather. Feet, round and cat-like,
with a plentiful supply of hair between the toes. Many have argued with
me, that mating black with liver colour, would throw the black puppies
rusty, or bad black, but, being a pigeon breeder for many years, and
knowing that by mating duns and blacks, you procure a better black than
by breeding two blacks together, I thought if this held good with
Pigeons, why should it not do with dogs? I therefore mated my Spaniels,
as before described, the result is, I have never seen one bad
black, and have bred more than a dozen litters in that way."
[Illustration: COCKER SPANIEL CH. "TED OBO" J. FARROW OWNER.]
_Some Other Sporting Spaniels._--The heads of small Spaniels should
resemble those of small Setters, and have no tuft on them. The ears
should be moderately long, and lie close to the cheek. Very short ears
indicate a cross. The legs should be strong, well feathered and short;
the feet round; and each toe should be protected with hair, a plentiful
supply of which on, and between the toes, is important. The chest should
be rather broad. The elbows, not so oblique as in the Setter. The body,
should be long, and somewhat round, and barrel-like, with less depth of
the fore rib than in the Setter. The tail, should come out on a line
with the backbone. The colours may be almost anything, black, black and
white, liver, liver and white, lemon, lemon and white, roan, blue, or
grey mottled.
[Illustration: SMOOTH BASSET HOUND CH. "LOUIS LE BEAU" Mrs M. TOTTIE
OWNER.]
_Bassets._--Amongst those breeds which have been taken up a good deal as
pets and companions in comparatively recent years, have been _the
Bassets_, both _Smooth_ and _Rough-coated_. This breed, which has been
in fewer hands than most, also enjoys the advantage of royal patronage,
both their Royal Highnesses the Prince and Princess of Wales, being
successful breeders and exhibitors of them. They are heavy looking,
usually hound marked, in colour, that is, white with black and light
brown, and hound-tanned markings on body, which is very long shaped on
short, strong legs, large, pendulous ears and head, and in expression
much like what we used to see in pictures of the "old English Hound."
They have a high-class and distinguished look about them, and give you
the impression of character and breeding. They have not been used
extensively for sporting purposes in this country, to my knowledge.
[Illustration: DACHSHUND CH. "WISEACRE". E. S. WOODIWISS, OWNER.]
_Dachshunds._--Another of the breeds I have seen kept as pets, is the
_Dachshund_, or Badger Dog, as the name implies. I think they are
rarely, or ever, used for Badgers in this country, and for the safety of
the greater part of those I have seen here, I think it is much better
that is so, as any one familiar with the Badger, or the "old Gentleman
in Grey," as he is frequently called, will know that he is a formidable
opponent to tackle, muscular, active, low to the ground, with a very
tough, harsh coat, and long, powerful jaws, and weighing from over
twenty to over thirty pounds, so that it requires activity, strength and
indomitable pluck for a small dog to attempt to overcome such an animal,
possessing so many natural advantages. I think Dachshunds are not so
generally kept as pets as they were some years since, but my experience
of them is favourable, having found them amiable and docile in
disposition, cleanly in habits, and bright and lively in temperament.
They are very long, and low, in build, head and ears hound shaped,
forelegs curved with an outward turn, to facilitate digging operations,
tail carried rather gaily, coat fine in texture, skin loose, colours
most in favour, rich chestnut red, black and tan, chocolate, and other
shades of brown, and of late, what is called "dappled," which seems
to be a ground of one shade of brown, splashed with irregular blotches
of another darker shade of same colour. Of course there are constantly
springing up new patrons and patronesses for all kinds of dogs, but I
have noticed that almost every one of the persons who were the most
enthusiastic supporters, and breeders of Dachshunds, when they were
first brought forward, many years since, have now ceased to keep them,
although they nearly all keep some other breeds, so that, as in my own
case, I think it is not one of the varieties which takes a lasting hold
on its votaries, whether from the fact that it is essentially one of the
foreign made breeds, and the effect of the strong preference, which now
prevails for the encouragement of everything of British and Colonial
origin and manufacture, I do not know, but I can call to mind at least
ten of the largest breeders of Dachshunds in this country, who, I
believe, have not at present one specimen amongst the lot.
[Illustration: ROUGH BASSET. "BEAUTY" H. R. H. PRINCE of WALES, OWNER.]
_Points of the Basset Hound._--The following description of the points
desired in this breed by my friend, the late lamented Sir Everett
Millais, Bart., who was quite an enthusiast in his support of it, may be
interesting to those of my readers who admire (and who, that has seen
them, can fail to do so?) these very beautiful dogs:--"The Basset, for
its size, has perhaps more bone than nearly any other dog. The skull,
should be peaked, like that of the Bloodhound, with the same dignity,
and expression; nose, black, and well flewed. For the size of the
Hound, I think the teeth are extremely small. However, as they are not
intended to destroy life, perhaps this is the reason. The ears, should
hang, like the Bloodhounds, and are like the softest velvet. The eyes
are deep brown, and brimful of affection and intelligence. They are
pretty deeply set, and should show a considerable 'haw.' A Basset, is
one of those Hounds, incapable of having a 'wicked eye.' The neck, is
long, but of great power, and in the Basset à jambes torses, the flews
extend very nearly down to the chest. The chest, is more expansive in
the Basset, than even in the Bull Dog, and should, in the Basset à
jambes torses, be not more than two inches from the ground. In the case
of the Basset à jambes demi-torses, and jambes droites, being generally
lighter, their chests do not of course come so low. The shoulders, are
of great power and terminate in the crooked feet of the Basset, which
appear to be a mass of joints. The back and ribs, are strong, and the
former of great length, the stern, is gaily carried, like that of Hounds
in general, and when the Hound is on the scent of game, this portion of
his body gets extremely animated, and tells me, in my own Hounds, when
they have struck a fresh, or cold, scent, and I even know when the
foremost Hound will give tongue! The hindquarters, are very strong and
muscular, the muscles standing rigidly out, down to the hocks. The skin,
is soft in the smooth haired dogs, and like that of any other Hound, but
in the rough variety, it is identical with that of the Otter Hound.
Colour, of course, is a matter of fancy, although I infinitely prefer
the 'tricolour,' which has a tan head, and black and white body."
_Points of the Dachshund._--The following are set down by my friend, Mr.
A. O. Mudie, so well-known as a successful breeder, exhibitor and judge
of this quaint-looking breed, and who has had a long experience amongst
them:--Head, long and narrow, peak well developed. Jaw, strong, and
level. Ears, set on low, long, broad, and soft. Chest, deep, and narrow;
breastbone prominent. Forelegs, very short, and strong in bone,
well-crooked, but standing equally on all parts of the foot. Skin,
thick, and supple. Coat, short and strong. Loins, well arched, strong
and muscular. Any colour. Long, low, and graceful, and not cloddy."
CHAPTER VI
DOGS USED IN SPORT (_Continued_)
GREYHOUNDS--SCOTTISH DEERHOUNDS--IRISH WOLFHOUNDS--BORZOIS--WHIPPETS
[Illustration: WHIPPET GREYHOUND CH. "REAL JAM." S. WOODIWISS OWNER.]
_Greyhounds._--This is certainly, whether quite in his present form and
appearance or not, one of the most ancient breeds, and believed to have
been kept by our forefathers in the earliest part of the Christian era.
It is said to have been introduced into this country in the days of
Elfric, Duke of Mercia, and manuscript paintings exist of a Saxon chief,
his huntsman and a brace of Greyhounds in the ninth century. Although
not generally credited with much more intelligence than to view a hare
and run after it until he catches it, or it gets away, I mention later
on in this book, some tales of his sagacity which I believe are well
authenticated, and will now give a detailed description of the breed:--
_Points of the Greyhound._--Head, narrow and fine, with sufficient
muscle; nose should be straight (not curved, many, otherwise good, are
spoiled by "Roman noses"); nasal sinuses not developed; eyes full and
bright, full of life; semi-erect, small, well shaped ears; neck long,
slightly curved; chest capacious, plenty of "lung power," deep rather
than wide; shoulders deep, narrow at top, like racehorses' shoulders in
their position; forelegs straight, well set on, well muscled; forearms,
long, strong and muscular; feet compact, and not too long; well arched
ribs; wide, large and muscular hips; long, strong, slightly arched back;
hocks and knees placed low; coat glossy as satin (many good "performers"
however, have been the reverse of this); Colours: white, red, brindle,
blue and white, fawn, black, red and fawn, etc., quite a matter of
taste. It is thought, by some people, that more great winners have been
produced from the blacks, and black and whites, than from any other
colours. As far as show winners are concerned, and I have had scores of
the breed before me, I am inclined to think brindles, blacks and fawns
have been the most often the winning colours.
[Illustration: DEERHOUND, CH. "SELWOOD DHOURAN". R. HOOD WRIGHT, OWNER.]
_The Scotch Deerhound._--Although I have often seen these graceful
animals (as we know was the case with Sir Walter Scott), made inmates of
the house, there is a rugged, moorland, and, withal, business-like look
about them which gives you the idea they would be more at home in the
open air, on the heather, or the mountain side, for choice, than in the
most luxurious house dwelling. It is some time since I had any of them,
but I was very partial to the breed, and used to exhibit for some time,
and well remember the grace and activity often displayed by some of my
specimens. I always go and have a look at them at the shows. I am not
quite convinced they are making much progress, just now, although
undoubtedly there are good specimens. There are so many new breeds being
brought out and "pushed" forward, some of the older ones are apt to
be neglected.
_The Points of Scotch Deerhound._--The points of this breed are stated
by a well known breeder and exhibitor as follows:--Head, long and
narrow, tapering gradually from the ears, knee flat; nose, black,
occasionally a blue black, and pointed, lips level, ears small, set on
high and carried in a fold, soft, silky, and free from long hairs; neck
long but strong, nape very prominent, shoulders sloping, toes close and
arched, chest deep, body long, but well ribbed up; loins arched with
great breadth across hips, stifle well bent, thighs long; tail set on
low, curved but not coated, coat rough and harsh on body, mane on neck
and slight fringe on inside of legs, thighs, and tail. Colours: all
shades from dark blue or black brindled, to light grey brindled, fallow,
fawn, dun and drab. White markings often seen on chest and feet, but
most objectionable.
[Illustration: IRISH WOLFHOUND CH. "SHEELAH" CAPN GRAHAM OWNER.]
_The Irish Wolf Hound._--I think nearly all persons who take any
interest in this grand old breed, stated to have been well known to and
greatly prized by "the Romans," in old times, are aware that no one of
the present generation has devoted more time and trouble, in diving into
the history of the breed in the past, and doing his utmost, both by
experimental breeding, and stirring up a similar ardour in others, to
revive at least some of the past glories of the breed, in the present
and future, than Captain George Graham, of Dursley, and I venture to
make some quotations from an excellent and interesting article of his on
the subject, as being the highest authority procurable: "_The form_ of
the old Irish Wolfhound should be that of a tall, heavy Scotch
Deerhound, much more massive, and very majestic looking, active and
fast, perhaps less so than our present breed of Deerhounds; neck thick
in comparison to his form, and very muscular, body and frame lengthy.
_Head_, long but narrow, coming to a comparative point towards the nose,
which is rather large; and head gradually getting broader from the same
_evenly_ up to the back of the skull, not sharp up to the eyes and then
suddenly broad and humpy. _Coat_, rough, hard and long all over the
body, head, legs and tail. Hair on head, long, but rather softer than on
body, standing out boldly over eyes, beard under jaws, very marked and
wiry. Colours: black, grey, brindle, red, and fawn, though _white_ dogs
were esteemed in former times. _Ears_, small in proportion to size of
head, and erect, as in Smooth Greyhounds. If dark in colour, to be
preferred. _The tail_, should be carried with an upward curve only, and
not be curled as is the case with many Greyhounds. _Size._ We may safely
deduce that the height of these dogs varied from thirty-two to
thirty-four inches, and even thirty-five in the dogs, and from
twenty-nine to thirty-one in the bitches. The other dimensions would
naturally be about as follows for well shaped and true formed dogs.
_Girth of chest._ Dogs thirty-eight to forty-four inches; bitches
thirty-two to thirty-four inches. _Weight._ Dogs one-hundred and fifteen
to one hundred and forty pounds; bitches ninety to one hundred and
fifteen pounds. _Girth of forearm._ Dogs ten to twelve inches; bitches
eight and one-half to ten inches. _Length of head._ Dogs twelve and
one-half to fourteen inches; bitches eleven to twelve inches. Most
modern authors, and all practical lovers of the canine race whom the
writer has consulted, are agreed that the foregoing is the correct type
of dog beyond question."
_Show Points of the Irish Wolf Hound._--Skull, long but rather narrow in
proportion to the animal's height and weight, very gradually tapering to
the nose, which should be large; ears small; eyes dark hazel; neck of
fair length and very muscular; shoulders sloping, chest rather wide and
very deep; body long and very powerful, though free from any suspicion
of clumsiness; forelegs, straight, and heavy in bone; feet, compact, and
of a good size and well padded; hindquarters, very muscular, with bent
stifles and hocks; tail carried rather upward in similar form; coat,
profuse, hard, and weather resisting; brindle, black, or fawn are the
most usual colours, though whites _are_ known. Size, as tall as
possible.
[Illustration: BORZOI, CH. "ALEX" H. R. H. PRINCESS OF WALES, OWNER.]
_The Borzois._--I will next deal with the Borzois, the name of the
Russian Wolf Hounds, which have become so much more numerous of late
years, and are being patronised not only by many of the nobility and
gentry, but even by H. R. H. the Princess of Wales. The portrait of a
champion from H. R. H. kennels illustrates this variety. I remember H.
R. H. the Prince of Wales exhibited some specimens of this breed a good
many years ago, at Warwick, on one of the many occasions of my judging
there, and if I remember rightly Lady Charles Innes Ker was also an
exhibitor of the breed at the same show, but those shown by the latter,
although what would at the present day, be considered small and weedy
specimens, were more, in colour, coat and type, like those now imported
from Russia, while those then shown by H. R. H. the Prince (although, I
think, stated to be a present to him from the then Emperor of Russia,)
were pale cream, or freestone, colour, with harsher coats, and more
altogether on the style of very light coloured Scotch Deerhounds. I may
say, however, that for elegance, elasticity, beauty of form, and
movement, there is no breed to surpass the Borzois and I have no doubt
they will continue to increase in popularity. The points most sought
after in the breed are:--narrow, domed, and long skulls, long, powerful
jaws, with rather arched noses, soft and intelligent expression; very
powerful, slightly arched and longish sides, on sloping shoulders, deep
but rather narrow chests; backs rising in a gradual curve at loins, very
muscular, but appearance of being rather "tucked up;" forelegs straight,
strong and well under body; feet close and well padded; hindquarters
immensely muscular and powerful, backs well let down, tail carried low,
in a graceful curve; coat profuse and silky looking, colours usually
white with lemon, grey or red markings, but self-coloured specimens are
often seen; the general appearance is that of a high bred, distinguished
looking, graceful animal, something the shape and size of a Scotch
Deerhound, but differing from it in many respects. As I judged this
breed long before there was any club or classes provided for it, I have
always taken much interest in it, and been pleased to see how rapidly it
has come into public favour.
[Illustration: WHIPPET CH. "ENTERPRISE" H. VICKERS, OWNER.]
_The Whippet._--Although their size and elegance of shape would make
them eligible, I think, the Whippet, or "Running Dog," as he is
sometimes called, is not often kept strictly as a pet or companion, but
more often as a means of a little speculation on its fleetness of foot.
No doubt most of my readers will be aware, it is a small sized
Greyhound, rather long in head, wide between the eyes, flat at top, jaw
powerful but clean, level teeth, bright eyes, small rose ears, long,
arched neck, no throatiness, muscular, oblique shoulders, deep chest,
strong loins, arched back, rather long and broad. Legs straight, short
and muscular thighs, feet round and well split up, tail tapering and
long, with good carriage. Coat fine and close, colours, white, brindle,
fawn, blue, red, black, and mixtures of each. Of late years there has
been greatly revived interest taken in these dogs, and considerable
prizes have been offered for their competition. I have noticed also a
marked increase in the entries at shows providing classes for them, and
on several occasions, at the larger shows, I have had good classes
containing many beautiful specimens of this breed, which is so largely
kept by colliers and others of the working classes in the "Black
Country."
CHAPTER VII
TERRIERS USED IN SPORT
FOX--DANDIE DINMONTS--SKYES--SCOTTISH
[Illustration: (OLD TYPE.) SMOOTH FOX TERRIER "BELGRAVE JOE" L. TURNER,
OWNER]
[Illustration: (NEW TYPE) SMOOTH FOX TERRIER CH. "CLAUD DUVAL" G. RAPER
OWNER.]
_Fox Terriers._--As this breed is associated with my first prize, when a
schoolboy, now, some years since, but when dog shows were much rarer
than "Black Swans," were supposed to be, I have always taken much
interest in it, and have had many good specimens of both the Smooth, and
Wirehaired, varieties into which the breed is divided. They are both
very good and both have hosts of admirers. Some of the fanciers now
exhibiting, will remember, with me, the time when no classes were
provided for the "Wirehairs," and you had (as I have often done) to show
them as "Broken-haired Terriers," and often meet in your class nearly
all the members of that heterogeneous family, such as Dandies, Skyes,
Bedlingtons, Scottish (Airedales did not exist then), Irish, and old
English, enough to try the temper of judge and exhibitors, and making
the decision quite a matter of the specimen best shower and shown. But
since those days, Fox Terriers have enjoyed a long term of popularity,
and so far from the "Wirehaired" section being ignored, I have seen at
some shows more entries in it than that of their Smooth brethren, and
the figures given for high class specimens, are certainly not far
behind, even if they are not before, them. Of course, hundreds, in fact
the great majority of the Fox Terriers in the country, have never seen a
Fox, and probably never will, in the course of their natural life, and
(as I said of many of the Dachshunds we see about, and the "Badgers," so
I say of very many of the Fox Terriers to be met with everywhere) so
much the better _for them_, as a Fox, _in his earth_, which is where a
Terrier is wanted to deal with him, is not a "milk and water" animal to
tackle, as a rule, and it requires strength, perseverance, pluck and
ability on the part of his assailants. I think the following description
of the necessary points required, as expressed by my friend Mr. Francis
Redmond, well known to many of my readers as a very successful breeder,
exhibitor, and judge of the breed, will fitly conclude my brief
notice:--"The points of greatest importance in the Fox Terrier are:
Head, ears, legs and feet, neck, and shoulders, back, loin and
hindquarters, smartness, activity, size, and 'Terrier character.'
_Head._ The skull should be flat and moderately narrow, broader between
the ears and gradually tapering to the eyes, free from wrinkle. But
little slope, or indentation, should be visible, except in profile. The
jaw should be clean cut, rather long, powerful and muscular, with little
or any fullness or bulging out at the cheeks. There is a very slight
falling away below the eyes, but this must be very gradual, and not to
such an extent as to give a snipey, or wedgy, appearance. _The lips_
should be fairly tight, without any superfluous skin. _The nose_ must be
quite black. _The eyes_ should be small, not set too wide apart,
neither too much sunk, or protruding, dark-rimmed, full of life, and
intelligence. _The teeth_, strong, and level, incisors just closing over
the under ones. _The ears_, to which great importance is attached, V
shaped, rather small, fairly thick and carried forward, flat, and close
to the cheek. _The neck_ should be of fair length, clean and muscular,
well set, with shoulders tapering gradually to head. _The shoulders_,
fine at the points, long and sloping, chest deep, narrow rather than
broad. Shoulders and chest have of late received much attention by
judges; heavy shoulders and broad chests are no good for these dogs'
work. _Back and loin._ Back should be straight and strong, the ribs well
sprung, loin strong, wide and square, back ribs deep. Loin may be
slightly arched, but with no approach to 'wheel back.' _Hindquarters_
must be very strong, wide seen from behind, thighs with plenty of
muscle, long as well as large, stifles slightly bent, hocks straight.
Bone, short and strong from hock to heel. _Stern_ set on rather high,
carried gaily, not carried above a 'right angle' with back; if anything,
a trifle coarse. _Legs and feet._ Point of extreme value, to which
greatest attention should be given. Elbows well let down, in straight
line with body. Forelegs, however viewed, 'straight as gun barrels,'
with upright, powerful, pasterns; strong in bone, clothed with muscle
from elbow to foot, giving a most solid, unbroken appearance; feet,
round, and cat-like, very compact, toes short and only moderately
arched, soles hard as adamant; foot should neither turn in or out, if
any deviation, should turn in; no dew-claws behind. _The Coat_ should
be smooth, harsh in texture, very close and abundant, a jacket to
protect wearer from all weathers. Colours: white should predominate.
Brindle, fallow, liver, or red, markings are objectionable. _Size._ The
Fox Terrier must neither be leggy or too near the ground, neither must
he be cloddy, but should have plenty of 'liberty,' and galloping power,
with good bone and substance; fair speed and endurance being essentially
requisite for his legitimate calling. Seventeen pounds in hard working
condition is a fair average weight, but this may vary a pound or so
either way. Make, shape, good shoulders and chest, being far better
criterions, in this respect, than actual weight.--"
[Illustration: (OLD TYPE) WIREHAIRED FOXTERRIER CH. "LORY" C. H. LANE
OWNER.]
[Illustration: (NEW TYPE) WIREHAIRED FOXTERRIER CH. "ROPER'S NUT-CRACK".
SIR H. DE TRAFFORD BT. OWNER.]
The above applies to "Smooth," but is also an excellent standard for
"Wirehaired Fox Terriers," which are judged on same lines, _except_
coat, which in the latter, should be about two inches long, and very
dense, and wiry, not shaggy, or woolly, on any account.
[Illustration: DANDY-DINMONT. CH. "BLACKET-HOUSE YET" MRS. RAYNER,
OWNER.]
_Dandies._--A very sterling and genuine breed is _the Dandie Dinmont
Terrier_, which was, I think, first brought to public notice by the
writings of Sir Walter Scott, and as I have bred, owned, exhibited and
judged more of them than most people, I may be allowed to say they are
highly intelligent (according to my experience, much more so than any
breed of Terrier, and I believe I have kept most of them), devoted to
their owners "born sportsmen," being always open for anything in the way
of "sport" on land or in water, full of dash and spirit, have a quaint
and picturesque appearance, and make ideal companions for either sex.
Of course they are Scottish by birth and origin, but, the more they are
seen and known, the better they will be liked, and they have been so
much introduced into England, and good specimens bought up, that, at one
time, even if not now, there were more good ones in England than could
be met with in any part of Scotland. There are only supposed to be two
colours allowed in Dandies, "_Pepper_," which is a sort of pepper and
salt, composed of light and dark bluish greys, with topknots of silvery
white, and "_Mustard_," which is a kind of pale yellowish fawn, darker
on the neck and back than below, and also with a light silvery topknot.
A Dandie of high class, of either colour, shown in good coat and form,
is a very beautiful little dog, and fit company for the highest in the
land, and, as I said of the last breed I mentioned, may be seen in the
possession of all classes. I am not quite certain whether Her Majesty
the Queen continues to keep the breed. I do not remember seeing any at
Windsor, but I know that in the lifetime of the late lamented Prince
Consort, there were Dandies and Skyes amongst the royal pets. Where a
person desires to keep but one dog, and wishes to make a friend and
companion of it, I do not think that they could improve upon a Dandie,
as they make incomparable house dogs. I am speaking from a long and
intimate experience of them, as I have bred, owned, shown and judged
hundreds of them, and I have rarely found any, who have kept them, but
speak in the highest terms of their many charming qualities, and
continue to take an interest in the breed, perhaps, long after they
have any specimens of it left, and in many cases, several generations of
the same families have kept them on. In build they are low to the
ground, with long bodies, short legs, possessed of great strength and
endurance, and certainly one of the most muscular breeds of its size
with which I am acquainted, their quaint, dignified bearing, and deep
bark are marked characteristics. The following are the points of the
breed, as set out by me for publication, very many years since, and I am
not aware they have ever been altered:--Head apparently large in
proportion to size, skull fairly wide and covered with top-knot of
silky, light hair, muzzle deep and moderately broad, jaws of great
strength, teeth level, ears not thick or wide, and feathered to a point,
eyes dark hazel, very lustrous and intelligent (dark markings round the
eyes very desirable in Pepper Dandies), chest deep, forelegs as straight
as compatible with lowness, and, as well as in loins and hindquarters,
showing great bone and muscle, tail carried rather gaily, weight under
twenty-four pounds, bitches under twenty-two pounds. Colours, pepper or
mustard.
[Illustration: DROPEARED SKYE CH. "BALLOCHMY LE BASHFUL" SIR CLAUDE
ALEXANDER BART OWNER.]
_Skyes._--Perhaps it will be in order here to mention their fellow
countrymen, _the Skyes_, also admirably adapted as companions and house
dogs, the main advantages Dandies can claim over them being, in carrying
less coat, and being rather more active. Although blacks, and fawns with
black points, are occasionally seen, the predominant colours of Skyes
are, undoubtedly, various shades of grey, from light silver to dark
iron and steel. The breed is divided into two varieties, principally
distinguished by the carriage of their ears, and known as "Dropeared"
and "Prickeared;" in the former, the ears being rather large and
pendulous to the sides of the head, and in the latter, the ears are
carried as by the Pomeranians; each variety has its admirers, and some,
as I have done, keep both sorts, but I think there are many more
prick-eared to be seen, than drop-eared. These dogs are more active,
intelligent and courageous than would be supposed from their appearance,
and form strong attachments to their owners. Owing to the unsatisfactory
management of one, and the dissolution of the other, of the clubs,
founded many years since in Scotland, and England, for the encouragement
of this breed (which is another of those either still, or formerly,
favoured by royal patronage, both at Windsor and Sandringham), things
have not been going on swimmingly, for some years past, in the Skye
world, but I know there are a few zealous breeders still "pegging away"
with their kennels, and I am in hopes the interests and fortunes of the
breed will be again revived, and some more specimens brought forward, as
good, or better, than any seen in the past. The greatest fault I find
with nearly all the best specimens brought out of late years, is their
size, as in my opinion, and I have probably seen all the best brought
out during the last twenty-five years, their weight should not exceed
twenty-five pounds, even with dogs, and with bitches two or three pounds
less, with preference for small, good ones, long, low, hard in coat,
strong in bone, and muzzle, and not toys. With proper care and
attention, a Skye may be made a most beautiful animal, as is proved by
one of the inmates of a well known kennel, on one occasion, actually
pulling off, and on another, getting placed "Reserve," for the highest
possible honour at a first class London show, where all the competitors
were champions of their several varieties.
[Illustration: PRICK-EARED SKYE CH. of CH. "DUCHESS" Mrs W. J. HUGHES
OWNER.]
The points in Skyes are usually considered to be as follows: Head long
with powerful jaws and level teeth. Skull wide in front, narrowing
between ears and tapering gradually towards muzzle, with little falling
in between or behind the eyes. Eyes, close set, medium size, dark hazel.
Muzzle always black. Ears pendant, or pricked, in the former full and
well feathered, lying close to face in front, and in the latter standing
bolt upright, with a little feathering at the tip, standing towards each
other at inner edges from peak to skull. Body, preeminently long and
low, shoulders broad, chest deep, ribs oval shaped, and well sprung,
giving flattish appearance to sides. Hindquarters and flanks full and
well developed. Level back. Neck long and slightly crested; tail, when
raised, a prolongation of the incline of the back, gracefully feathered
on lower side, and not rising higher or curling over back. Legs, short,
straight and muscular, without dew claws. Feet rather large and pointing
forward. Under coat, short, close, soft and woolly. Over coat, hard,
straight, flat and crisp, averaging five and one-half inches long. Hair
on head shorter, softer, and veiling forehead and eyes; on ears,
overhanging, inside falling down and mingling with side locks, not
heavily, but surrounding the ear like a fringe, and allowing the
shape to appear. Colours: dark or light blue, grey, or steel, or fawn
with black points. Weight _not_ exceeding twenty-four pounds, a few
pounds less, better than any higher, as so many good specimens are
spoilt by being coarse, at least, this is my opinion, after considerable
practical experience of the breed, and being one of its staunchest
admirers.
[Illustration: HARD-HAIRED SCOTCH TERRIER CH. "KILLDEE" H. J. LUDLOW
Owner.]
_Scottish Terriers._--One of the misfortunes of being a "general lover
of animals," is that you can never tell which sort you like best, there
are so many breeds, I have bred and exhibited, and I think all breeds I
have judged, and I am identified with so many, which are presumed to be
my "prime favourites," but, it is a positive fact, although I have never
before mentioned it, that, some of the breeds, in which, I have had the
largest entries, for years and years, were taken up by me, so warmly,
because, I thought them in "low water," and in danger of extinction
without they were encouraged, that they were not at all favourites of
mine. But I do not intend to disclose preference for any particular
variety, beyond what my friends may know, or others may gather from the
contents of this book, but this I will say of the _Scottish Terrier_,
that if I was not the first, as mentioned hereafter in my "Doggy
Anecdotes," in this work, to introduce him into this country, more than
twenty-five years since, I must have been _one_ of the earliest, as I
never saw one here until long after arrival of my "_Fraochen_" (whose
life-like picture, coming through the underwood with a Rabbit in his
mouth, hangs by me while I pen these lines!). As I said of the Dandie,
and might say of the Irish Terrier, that where a man, _or woman_, for
that matter, as they are capital specimens for either sex, wants to keep
only one dog, _they cannot better_ one of those three breeds. They are
as true as steel, devoted as "pals," and faithful _as dogs_! The great
uniformity of type, and character, now seen in the large classes of
these game and picturesque-looking little fellows, at the larger shows,
proves the amount of care and attention which has been devoted to them
by breeders, _within_ the last quarter of a century. The usual colours
are, shades of black, dark grey and grizzle, and sometimes stone colour.
My friend, the late Capt. Keen, made an effort to introduce whites, but
I do not think it came to much. Although, I am glad to say, the
enthusiasm for the breed in "North-Britain," has not abated, not a few
good specimens, and to my certain knowledge (for I have the pleasure of
numbering them amongst my friends), not a few keen fanciers of "Scottish
Terriers," exist on _this_ side of "the border," and it is always my
wish, with them, when they meet, as with every other kind of "stock," in
rivalry, "may the best win, and the loser do his best to turn the tables
next time." With these few remarks on a breed on which much more could
be said, if space and time permitted, I will give: _The Points of the
Scottish Terrier_.--Skull of good length, rather inclined to be curved
in shape, covered with short hair, and showing a drop between the eyes;
muzzle, very powerful, and not too pointed; nose, large and black;
teeth, extremely large; eyes, dark, small, piercing in expression, and
very bright; ears, very small, sharp at the corners, and carried erect;
neck, short, and powerful; chest, rather wide, and very deep; body, only
moderately long, and very powerful at the loins; forelegs, straight,
short, and heavy in bone, with small, compact feet, well padded with
hair between the toes; hindquarters very muscular and the hocks well
bent; tail of fair length and carried rather gaily; coat, very harsh,
and weather resisting; colours, dark grey, black, brindle, red or
wheaten. Much white marking being very objectionable.
Part II
CONTENTS
PART II
DOGS USED IN WORK
CHAP. PAGE
VIII. St. Bernards, Newfoundlands, Mastiffs,
Dalmatians 147
IX. Sheep Dogs:--Rough Collies, Smooth Collies, Old
English 169
X. Bull Dogs, Bull Terriers, Boston Terriers 179
XI. Terriers,--Irish, Airedale, Bedlington, Black and
Tan, Old English 199
CHAPTER VIII
DOGS USED IN WORK
ST. BERNARDS--NEWFOUNDLANDS--MASTIFFS--DALMATIANS
[Illustration: ROUGH ST BERNARD CH. "SIR BEDIVERE" S. SMITH OWNER.]
[Illustration: SMOOTH ST BERNARD CH. "GUIDE" J. F. SMITH OWNER.]
_St. Bernards._--Although apparently so much removed from the breeds, I
have been deeply associated with for the last twenty-five years, I am
bound to say I have always been a great admirer of St. Bernards, and can
well remember many years ago, at a show held at Laycock's Dairy Yard,
Islington, being struck with admiration at the team shown there by Mr.
Cumming Macdona (at that time, and for some years later, "a name to
conjure with" in the St. Bernard world), and afterwards I was a great
admirer of my friend Mr. Gresham's Hector and Abbess (two of the best I
had seen in possession of one owner) and many more, too numerous to
mention. I am inclined to think the breed is not quite as popular as it
was some years since, and that the entries at most of our best shows are
neither as large, nor as good, as they were. The points desired are as
follows:--The head very massive and large, showing great depth from eye
to lower jaw; the face rather short; muzzle wide, deep, and cut off
square; the lips should hang down well and be rather loose; the "stop"
well defined, but not too abrupt; the skull massive and well rounded,
eyes dark in colour, of medium size, rather deeply set, the lower eyelid
drooping slightly, so as to show a little of the red haw; ears rather
small, lying well to the cheek, and very slightly feathered in the Rough
variety; nose black in colour, wide and deep; legs very straight, with
great bone and muscle, hocks and stifle well bent; feet large and
compact; body rather long, broad, straight and ribs well rounded. The
coat of the Smooth or Short-coated variety, should be very close, thick
and slightly brokenhaired. In the Rough variety the coat should be dense
and flat, of medium length, not woolly, rather longer on the neck,
thighs and tail. Colour and markings: orange, orange and tawny, and all
shades of brindle, and red; the markings should be as follows:--White
muzzle, white blaze up face, the white being shaded with black, also
black shadings on the ears, white collar round neck, white chest, legs
and tip of tail. The body may be white with patches of any of above
colours.
[Illustration: Bk NEWFOUNDLAND. CH. "WOLF OF BADENOCH". Mrs INGLETON
OWNER.]
[Illustration: LANDSEER-NEWFOUNDLAND. CH. "KETTERING WONDER". LADY
TOLLEMACHE OWNER.]
_Newfoundlands._--There are few of the non-sporting breeds which have
received more notice in the newspapers than the Newfoundland dog, being
so often associated with saving of life on the sea coasts, or on the
banks of some of our rivers, and I think there are few, if any, dogs so
really and naturally fond of the water, and being possessed of strength
and courage, they are often able to render valuable aid. At one time I
feared they were becoming almost extinct, and I think the many and very
beautiful specimens we now see at our shows, are mainly due to my old
friend, Mr. Edwin Nichols, of Kensington, who took up the breed
very warmly some years ago, and became one of the most shining lights in
the Newfoundland world. I remember, his ideas of the points to be sought
after were as follows:--Head to be broad and massive, with a flat skull
and somewhat square muzzle; ears small, in proportion to size of the
animal, and lying close to the head; coat straight, dense and capable of
resisting water; tail carried gaily, but not curled over the back.
Colours: black, black and white, or bronze. Average weights, one hundred
pounds for dogs and eighty-five pounds for bitches. General appearance
that of a dignified, thoughtful, and thoroughly reliable guard,
companion, or friend, with a great deal of character.
[Illustration: MASTIFF CH. "BEAUFORT" W. K. TAUNTON OWNER.]
_The Mastiff._--This, which is usually considered one of the National
breeds of this kingdom, is a splendid fellow, stylish and imperious in
manner and bearing, and fit to be the associate of the very highest in
the land. I don't think I can do better than quote the opinion of Mr. M.
B. Wynn, whom I well remember as a frequent exhibitor, breeder and judge
of this variety, some years ago. He says:--"What I consider a true type
of the British Mastiff. Head, this is the most important feature, it
should be broad between ears, and broad between the eyes. The "stop"
should extend up the face to a considerable length; forehead wrinkled
and flat; cheeks very prominent; muzzle broad, blunt and heavy, and as
deep as possible; profile square, and the under jaw, if any thing, to be
undershot; eyes small and to be deeply set, with a deal of loose skin
down the sides of the face; ears small and either half erect, or wholly
pendant, and thin to the touch. Body: Chest deep and thick through,
broad between forelegs; loin, broad, flat, heavy; body long. Stern: Many
good breeders prefer a long one, but I do not care for it to reach much
below the hock. Legs, broad, round, massive, straight. Height: this is a
much disputed point. The taller the better, provided the weight
corresponds in proportion. A dog standing twenty-eight inches high,
ought to weigh in good condition one hundred and twenty-five pounds, and
for every inch in height above that (_i. e._, twenty-eight inches) the
weight ought to increase from eight to ten pounds. But over thirty
inches, a still greater increase, in proportion. Many good dogs are only
twenty-eight and twenty-nine inches high, but from thirty-one to
thirty-three are to be desired. Height should ever be accompanied with
massive build and length, and should proceed from the shoulder to the
elbow, rather than from the elbow to the foot. I mean the height of the
dog should be derived from the depth of the chest, rather than from
"over-legginess," as this must tend to develop the weight, more or less,
of the whole animal. Colour, after all, is the last requisite, since you
may breed in a few generations, any colour you please. The purest fawns
have descended from the most decided brindles, and from time to time,
the white face, especially, has and will occur, and generally in the
finest specimens, and those which most closely resemble the paintings of
their progenitors. I am an advocate for fineness of coat, but not at the
expense of other more characteristic features.
_Points of the Mastiff._--The show points of this breed have been set
out as follows:--Head large and massive, skull flatly rounded, muzzle
square, broad and deep, teeth level, eyes dark brown or hazel coloured
and wide apart in setting; front legs straight, muscular and with great
bone; chest deep; loins strong and wide. Size of secondary importance,
so long as symmetry is retained. Colours: brindled, or apricot fawn, in
both cases noses, muzzles and ears black. General appearance that of a
massive, dignified and fine looking animal, well suited as a guard or
reliable companion.
[Illustration: THE BLACK SPOTTED DALMATIAN BITCH CH. "BEROLINA" E. T.
PARKER OWNER.]
_The Dalmatian._--This is a breed I have bred and kept for many years
and I have had the pleasure of judging some of the largest classes of
them ever seen, if I remember rightly, having nearly sixty entries on
one occasion, at the Crystal Palace, and large classes at the Royal
Agricultural Hall, Earl's Court, Birmingham and other places. At one
time they got down to a very low ebb, in numbers, but I think they are
now coming forward again, as I had a very good lot before me at the last
show of the Kennel Club. I think they have more of the Pointer type than
that of any other breed about them although I have used them entirely as
companions and guards, and there is no doubt they have a natural talent
as carriage dogs, and are very fond of horses; I know they are
exclusively used in Italy and other parts of the Continent of Europe for
sporting purposes, and they are often included in troupes of performing
dogs, in some of which I have seen very accomplished specimens, seeming
to adapt themselves to the work, particularly of a humorous character,
with much spirit and to be easily trained. Of course, as show dogs,
their markings are of great importance. I have for some time been trying
to bring forward more specimens of the liver, as well as the black,
spotted variety, which is now so seldom seen. Prince 4th, and his
handsome son, Champion Fauntleroy, a capital portrait of whom
illustrates this variety, and the bitch Doncaster Beauty, are the three
best of that colour, I have seen for many years, while Fawdry's Captain
and Leaho, my Lurth and Leah, and Wilson's Acrobat and Parker's Coming
Still, and Champion Berolina (formerly Wilson's), as well as Hartley's
Treasure, are the best of the black spotted variety seen for a very long
time. I have found them very docile and affectionate as well as more
intelligent than many people suppose, from seeing them running behind a
carriage.
[Illustration: LIVER SPOTTED DALMATIAN CH. "FONTLEROY." W. B. HERMAN
OWNER.]
_Points of the Show Dalmatian._--The points of this breed are, longish
head, flat skull, with moderate stop; long and powerful muzzle; medium
sized eyes, dark for black spotted, and light for the liver spotted
variety; ears rather small, white with black or liver markings, carried
close to head; nose black or liver, according to markings on body; neck
arched and fairly long, without throatiness; very deep but not wide
chest; powerful back and well ribbed body; muscular loins and straight
legs, compact, well padded feet; slightly curved, tapering tail, with
markings on it same colour as on body, carried rather gaily with an
upward curve; coat dense, harsh and short. Ground colour, white,
pure, with spots on body, ears and tail, size of a shilling or larger,
clear and distinct, not mixed or blurred, colour of spots to be rather
intense black, or a rich liver. Weight from fifty to fifty-five pounds.
General appearance to be that of a showy, stylish, powerful and
upstanding dog (too many of even the good specimens shown, are too
small, in my opinion), much of the Pointer type, but higher on leg and
altogether larger. They should have a close, fine coat, which if kept in
proper order, should have almost such a shiny appearance as you see on a
well groomed horse, they are very lively, cleanly, affectionate, and
much more intelligent animals, than is generally supposed, and as they
are exceedingly active, and fond of exercise, to those persons who like
a cheerful comrade, willing and able, besides being an excellent guard,
to accompany them on their journeys on foot, on horseback, or when
driving, or even on bicycle, when the travelling is at a moderate pace,
I think a Dalmatian would be suitable.
CHAPTER IX
DOGS USED IN WORK (_Continued_)
SHEEP-DOGS--ROUGH COLLIES--SMOOTH COLLIES--OLD ENGLISH SHEEP-DOGS
[Illustration: ROUGH COLLIE "LOCHIEL". H. R. H. PRINCESS OF WALES,
OWNER.]
_The Rough-coated Collie_ is a very beautiful and interesting breed, of
a highly nervous temperament, very intelligent, and capable of much
training for the performance of his natural work with the flocks. Those
who have seen him, at the Sheepdog trials, which are frequently held in
various parts of the country, but more particularly in Wales, can
testify to the patience, care, judgment and discretion, shown by many of
the competitors, who, in these cases, have usually three strange sheep
to conduct a long distance, over a course marked out by flags on small
posts stuck in the ground at intervals, and put them into a small pen,
usually made of three hurdles, at the end of the course, no one being
allowed to accompany the dogs during the trial, but merely to give
directions from a distance, by voice or gestures. I am inclined to think
the Scotch Collie is, at the present time, nearly the most popular breed
of dog in the United Kingdom, and a really first class specimen, good in
head, ears, eyes, shape, size, coat, colour and brush, is very valuable.
This is another breed favoured in high places, Her Majesty The Queen,
the Princess of Wales (one of whose specimens illustrates this variety),
the Countess of Warwick, and many more distinguished persons too
numerous to particularize, being amongst those who have extended their
patronage to this favourite breed of dog. The points to be desired in
this breed, are as follows:--Long head, skull not too wide or round,
obliquely set eyes, dark and expressive, small ears, set rather far back
and high, raised semi-erect, technically known as half-pricked, when
excited, with points slightly forward and hanging down; frame sinewy,
active and well knit; deep but wide in chest; straight forelegs,
feathered at back, with well bent hocks, strong compact feet; dense
undercoat of warm, woolly hair, with coat of hard hair over, intensely
full over the shoulders, neck and chest, tail carried in a graceful
curve and not over back, profusely feathered on lower side, colours
usually shades of black, sable grey, blue and red, with or without
white; size from forty-five to sixty-five for dogs, and for bitches
something less. The general appearance of a strong, active and very
intelligent dog, eager and ready to obey his master's orders.
[Illustration: SMOOTH COLLIE CH. "LADY NELLIE" C. H. LANE OWNER.]
I must not omit to mention the _Smooth Collie_, another variety. I have
long bred and kept it. It also is distinguished for its great activity.
I remember, in particular, one merle bitch of this breed I had who would
run up a rough stone wall ten feet high, like a cat, and jump down the
other side, and I have frequently seen her take a run and go over the
large wooden doors leading into my stable yard; _she_ was a marvel, but
I have had many others, who have surprised me by their athletic
performances. Some of the most intelligent work of any breed of sheep
dog has been done by Smooth Collies. A black and light brown bitch, of
what I may call Bloodhound colour, which I had some years since (her
portrait illustrates this variety), had again and again beaten all
competitors and taken gold and silver medals at Sheep Dog trials in
England and Wales, and was superior in intelligence to most "two-legged
animals" of any variety. If in charge of a flock of sheep, on a narrow
road, or lane, and they got jammed, she would either jump the wall or
hedge, at side, and run down to head them, or run over their backs to
the front, and drive them back to clear the course, and she knew what
was said to her almost before it was uttered. The appearance of this
breed is much like that of the Rough, or Scotch Collie, except that the
coat is short and sleek, ears pricked and without feathering on them or
the legs; and the tail, with only a slight fringe of hair on its lower
side. The favoured colours are merle (which is a sort of mottled grey,
black and blue), black and white, tricolour, and what I have before
mentioned as Bloodhound colour, being black on the back, and light
tan-coloured brown all the rest of the body, and it is considered an
advantage, rather than otherwise, for one or both of the eyes to be
"wall," or china, coloured. Having used them for work, as companions,
guards, and as house pets, I can speak very highly of Smooth Collies,
which, I think, are more kept in the north of England and in Wales,
particularly the South, than in any other parts of the country, but I
also think that if they were more known, they would be more kept, as
they have many advantages in their favour, and, like other short-coated
breeds, their change of coat is hardly perceptible, whereas we know how
very unsightly is any long-coated breed of dog when "out of coat." The
points of this breed are the same as in the Rough-coated variety, except
in coat.
_Bobtail Sheep Dogs._--Another very favourite breed with many is the
_Old English_, also called the Short-tailed, more commonly known as
"_Bobtailed_" _Sheep Dogs_, and, except for being rather large, and
carrying a heavy coat, both of which are objections in a house, they are
very agreeable companions, as they are very warm, in fact devoted, in
their affections, capital guards, quick to learn and carry out their
owner's wishes, well able to take care of themselves in any difference
with _any other breed_ of dogs, and so marvellously active, and
muscular, that I have seen a "Bobtail" win prizes in open jumping
competition with _all_ other breeds. To look at them no one would have
the slightest idea of their lively and active character. I have had a
great deal to do with them, having kept and bred them for many years,
and almost my earliest remembrance of any kind of dog, is connected with
a shaggy old customer of this breed called "Billie," belonging to a very
old friend of mine, at a Somersetshire farm, with whom I was on the
closest terms of friendship, and whose companionship used to impart a
strong "doggy" odour to my garments on the occasions of my visiting
him. I am very pleased to say, that this breed, which had been much
neglected on account of the influx of Scotch Collies, and was even in
danger of becoming almost extinct, has been very much taken up the last
few years, and even in London you now often see very decent specimens
accompanying fashionable ladies and carriages. It may not be generally
known, but I have proved it by actual practice with a great many of my
own specimens, that a "Bobtail" is a capital dog to follow carriage,
trap, or a rider on horseback. I have come many miles, on the darkest
nights, across country roads and lanes, with a couple following me, and
never knew an instance where they missed me, or failed to turn up at the
end of the journey, and the same in the crowded streets of a large city
I often visit. It is supposed to be one of the oldest breeds of dog we
have, and in one of Shakespeare's old English comedies, which was lately
mounted in unusually first class style, and with many novel realistic
effects, by a popular and well known manager at a West End theatre, a
quaint old shepherd appeared on the stage accompanied by a rugged
Bobtail, who made herself quite at home in her novel surroundings, and
gave a great finish to the scene. The Bobtail in question was lent by
me, and is the sister of a well known "Champion" belonging to one of the
most successful exhibitors and spirited buyers of Sheep dogs in the
United Kingdom. The points of this breed, as show specimens, are:--Head
square and large, eyes rather small and dark, but wall or marble eyes
are considered an advantage when obtainable, particularly in light
coloured specimens, body should be large and powerful, without
coarseness, sloping rather to front; legs straight, very strong and
muscular, well covered with hair down to toes, hindquarters high and
heavy, ears small for size of animal, neatly set on side of head,
densely coated with a harsh, straight and broken coat, of
weather-resisting character, colours very various, but shades of blue,
particularly that known as pigeon blue, mixed with white, especially on
head, chest and forelegs, most desired, weight forty-five to fifty-five
pounds.
_Champion Cupid's Dart_, whose portrait is here given, is one of the
best of the breed at present before the public.
[Illustration: OLD ENGLISH SHEEP-DOG. CH. "CUPID'S DART" F. WILMOT.
OWNER.]
CHAPTER X
DOGS USED IN WORK (_Continued_)
BULL DOGS--BULL TERRIERS--BOSTON TERRIERS
[Illustration: BULLDOG CH. "BLACKBERRY" S. WOODIWISS OWNER. (LARGE)]
[Illustration: BULLDOG "BARNEY BARNATO" G. R. SIMS OWNER. (MEDIUM)]
Amongst the most popular breeds of late years, has been one that would
not be generally expected to be found in that capacity, although it is a
very old and national breed. Perhaps I should say that, in reference to
all the companionable breeds I have mentioned in these articles, I mean
more especially kept by ladies, as when one speaks of such dogs, one
naturally thinks of animals not chained to a dog box, or shut up in a
kennel outside, but brought into the house, and, literally "treated as
one of the family." I refer to the _Bull Dog_, and having owned and had
to do with a great many of these, I can testify to their usual good
temper and placidity of disposition, in spite of the many unfavourable
comments we frequently hear about them. Indeed, it is a rare thing to
meet with a bad tempered Bull dog, and the majority of them will submit
to great liberties being taken, even by smaller dogs, rather than
attempt to take their own part, and have little idea of fighting in the
style practised by some other breeds. But if they once make up their
minds to go for any person, or animal, they are difficult to dislodge
when they have taken hold. The sizes are very various, the dogs running
from under forty pounds to over fifty-five pounds, and the bitches from
under thirty-five to under fifty pounds, and of late years a class of
"Toy Bull dogs" have been brought out, which I mention elsewhere. The
head large, small ears, rather prominent eyes, very short nose, chin
rather turned up and generally pugilistic look of the face, with the
body rather heavy in front, swung between legs placed widely apart, back
short and curved, technically called "roached," with mean hindquarters
and a short tail, with a downward turn in it if not "screwed," are
familiar features of the breed to most people knowing anything of it,
and the colours are white, white and brindle, white and Hound tan, white
and black, brindle, brindle and white, brindle and fallow, fawn with
black muzzle, fawn and white, red, red and white, red and black, black,
and black and white. Of course the brindles, reds, and fawns run into
different shades of each, but I think the foregoing contain nearly all
the colours allowed by the Bull Dog Clubs. It is a fascinating breed,
and when once it has been taken up, is seldom altogether dropped, and I
have known several generations of the same family keeping up the strain.
I should say the mortality amongst Bull Dogs is as great as, or probably
greater than, in _any other breed_ of dog, particularly before they are
a year old. Whether their being so much inbred, to preserve certain
characteristics, or being so short faced as to interfere with their
organs of respiration, are the causes, I will not pretend to say, but if
you ask any breeder, he will tell you what considerable losses he
suffers every year. Another difficulty which would not be suspected, is
that many of them are such bad "doers," that is, do not seem to have any
appetite for their food. I remember congratulating an enthusiast of the
breed on the condition of his favourite, a large brindle and white, at
least fifty pounds weight. "Yes," he said, "he is looking well, but for
the last fortnight he has been living entirely on veal cutlets." I
thought he would be an expensive boarder on such fare, but from my
experience of the breed and its owners, I doubt very much if _any other
kind of dog_ is so much pampered. They are naturally slow and lazy in
their movements, do not, as a rule, take much exercise, or go much into
the open air, so have not much healthy appetite, but as a _thin_ Bull
Dog is an abomination, their "condition" _must_ be kept up.
[Illustration: BULLDOG, CH. "LADY ROZELLE" C. H. LANE OWNER. (SMALL)]
[Illustration: BULLTERRIER CH. "SHERBOURNE QUEEN" W. J. PEGG OWNER.]
_Bull Terrier._--The Bull Terrier, formerly so much used in combats with
others of the same variety, (now happily things of the past, except "on
the quiet" at some of the less reputable public houses in out of the way
spots), has always been a prime favourite with the younger members of
the sporting fraternity, on account of his undaunted courage, activity,
lively disposition, and neat "business-like" appearance. He has been
much affected by the stoppage of "cropping the ears," and they are only
now beginning to produce specimens with small, well-carried, drop ears,
which take off much of the fierce expression they formerly wore, and
make them more presentable to the general public. For my own part, and I
have had many good specimens in my time, I do not care for them being
too big. I think twenty-five pounds quite heavy enough, even for a dog,
but I have often seen them at shows nearly or quite double that weight,
when to my mind, they become coarse and unwieldy, whereas such a breed
should be active, bright and lively, as well as shapely and stylish in
appearance. In colour he should be pure white, although I have seen and
owned many otherwise nearly perfect specimens, with markings, usually
lemon or brindled, on some part of head or body. The following are the
points laid down by Mr. S. E. Shirley, President of the Kennel Club, who
used to own some grand specimens:--The head should be long; the forehead
flat, the eyes small, round, keen, and as dark as possible, any approach
to a light or hazel coloured eye, being very objectionable; the jaws
should be quite level, strong and muscular; the muzzle fine and tapering
from the eyes; the nose quite black; the neck, long and well set into
strong, sloping shoulders; the chest wide and deep; the legs very
straight, strong and powerful; the feet small and round; the back strong
and short; the tail, which is or should be a great point in the Bull
Terrier, should be moderately fine, at the root, gradually tapering to
the point, it should be set on rather low, and carried in a gay, jaunty
manner, neither high nor low, not "hooped," or with the slightest
inclination to twist or "screw."
[Illustration: BOSTON-TERRIER "TURPIN". MISS J. TOZIER, OWNER.]
_The Boston Terrier._--By the kindness of a correspondent on the "other
side of the water," who has taken the trouble to supply some authentic
details of this breed of which so little is known amongst Englishmen,
but which are sure to be of much interest to the many fanciers and
admirers of the variety, I have much pleasure in giving the actual words
of my correspondent in the following description and standard of show
points of the Boston Terrier.
"_Concerning the earlier dogs of the breed._--How did the breed
originate? It resulted from a cross between the English Bull dog and the
English Terrier, and these two have been considerably inbred. Accidental
peculiarities of the first dogs used as sires are partly responsible for
the present type. About 30 years ago Mr. Robert C. Hooper, of Boston,
Mass., U. S. A., came into possession of a dog named Judge who was
imported from England. This dog known as Hooper's Judge was destined to
be the ancestor of the true modern Boston Terrier. He was a cross
between an English Bull dog and an English Terrier, leaning in type
rather more toward the Bull dog. Judge was bred to Gyp, or Kate, a white
bitch, owned by Ed. Burnett, of Southboro, Mass. She weighed twenty
pounds, had a fine three-quarter tail low stationed, stocky-build,
showing strength in her make-up, good head, being short and blocky. From
Judge and Gyp descended Well's Eph. Eph was mated to Tobin's Kate,
weighing twenty pounds, short head, golden brindle in colour, and
straight three-quarter tail. From Well's Eph and Tobin's Kate came
Barnard's Tom, the _first_ dog with a screw tail. This dog Tom was a
great improvement over his sire and grandsire, beside being the _first_
to show the fine quality that is present in a good specimen of the
modern Boston Terrier--Tom was the best Boston Terrier of his day, so,
of course, was much used in stud. The above gives very briefly the main
facts concerning the older dogs of this breed. To correct an idea that
has become somewhat prevalent, it can here be stated that the dog is in
no sense a fighting dog. While he is plucky as might be expected from
his ancestry, he is not quarrelsome or aggressive--is very loyal to his
master, obedient, affectionate and of sweet nature, quick in motion and
very intelligent."
Show points and standard of the Boston Terrier, furnished by an
enthusiastic American fancier of the breed.
_General Appearance._--The general appearance of the Boston Terrier is
that of a smooth, short-coated, compactly built dog of medium stature.
The head should indicate a high degree of intelligence, and should be in
proportion to the dog's size, the body rather short and well knit, the
limbs strong and finely turned, no feature being so prominent that the
dog appears badly proportioned. The dog conveys an idea of
determination, strength and activity--style of a high order, carriage
easy and graceful.
Skull--Broad and flat without prominent cheeks, and forehead free from
wrinkles.
Stop--Well defined but indenture not too deep.
Eyes--Wide apart, large and round, neither sunken nor too prominent,
dark in colour and soft--the outside corner on a line with the
cheeks as viewed from the front.
Ears--Small and thin, as near corners of the skull as possible.
Muzzle--Short, square, wide and deep, without wrinkles; nose black and
wide, with a well defined straight line between nostrils. The jaws broad
and square with short, regular teeth; the chops wide and deep, not
pendulous, completely covering the teeth when the mouth is closed.
Neck--Of fair length, without throatiness, and slightly arched.
Body--Deep and broad at chest, well ribbed up. Back short, not roached.
Loins and quarters strong.
Elbows--Standing neither in nor out.
Fore legs--Wide apart, straight and well muscled.
Hind legs--Straight, quite long from stifle to hock, which should turn
neither in nor out, short and straight from hock to pastern, thighs well
muscled, hocks not too prominent.
Feet--Small, turned neither in nor out. Toes compact and arched.
Tail--Set on low, fine tapering or screw--devoid of fringe or coarse
hair, _not_ carried above the horizontal.
Colour--Any colour, brindle, evenly marked with white, strongly
preferred.
Markings--White muzzle, blaze on face, collar, chest and feet.
Coat--Fine in texture, short and bright and not hard.
Weight--Light-weight class, under twenty-three pounds, but not less
than thirteen pounds. Heavy-weight class, twenty-three to thirty pounds,
inclusive.
_Disqualifications_--Cocked tail or any artificial means to deceive the
judge.
SCORE OF POINTS.
Skull, 12; ears, 2; eyes, 5; stop, 2; muzzle, 12; neck, 5; body, 15;
elbows, 2; forelegs, 4; hindlegs, 4; feet, 2; tail, 10; colour, 8;
markings, 4; coat, 3; general appearance, style, 10.
Total, 100.
CHAPTER XI
DOGS USED IN WORK (_Continued_)
TERRIERS--IRISH--AIREDALE--BEDLINGTON--BLACK AND TAN--SMOOTH ENGLISH
[Illustration: IRISH TERRIER CH. "TED MALONE" Mrs BUTCHER OWNER]
_The Irish Terrier._--There is scarcely any breed of any of the many
varieties of the Terrier, which has grown more in popularity during the
last twenty years, than this. And I believe it has done so strictly on
its merits; of course, somewhat helped by the ardour and zeal of his
excitable and genial fellow-countrymen, who have done all in their power
to help on one of their "national breeds." From the points hereafter
given, my readers will get a good description of the breed. I may say
that my experience of it, _personally_, was chiefly in some I bought of
my friend, Mr. W. Graham, of Belfast, (so much known and liked in
English as well as Irish doggy circles, and the breeder and exhibitor of
some of the best specimens of the breed ever seen). The only reason we
"parted company," was their talent for "boxing." If I had a dozen or
more dogs out peaceably enjoying themselves in a paddock, the moment
"the Irishmen" were let out, there were "ructions," and they could not
content themselves with just a friendly bout amongst themselves, or with
some of the Dandies, Skyes, or others, near their own size and weight,
but must needs go and pick a quarrel with some of the Collies, Bobtails
or other larger dogs, and I feared they would be killed, so got rid of
them, though they were all right with all of us, and indeed great
favourites. The following description of the breed is by my friend, Mr.
L. I. Barnett, so well known as Secretary of the English Section of the
Irish Terrier Club, and a frequent judge:--
_Points of the Irish Terrier._--"Head long, rather narrow; punishing
jaw; eyes, small and dark; ears fairly small, not set on too high; legs
straight, and strong; feet, round, and thick, with good heels; chest
narrow, with good depth of brisket; back strong, and straight, with tail
set on rather high; loins strong; neck, strong, and muscular; coat very
hard, and straight, shorter on head; colour yellow-red, darker on ears;
expression, 'wicked,' but intelligent."
[Illustration: AIREDALE TERRIER CH. "DUMBARTON LASS" A. E. JENNINGS
OWNER.]
_Airedales._--Another breed I see occasionally kept is the _Airedale
Terrier_, which are seldom less than forty pounds weight, and often much
more. As guards, or companions, they are admirable, and follow a trap
well, and can look after their own welfare, but although they have been
immensely improved since they were first brought out, in the North of
England, as "The Waterside Terrier," there is, to my mind, a coarse and
common look about them, that seems to keep them more associated with a
breed suitable to accompany his master's trap or cart, or to mount guard
over premises liable to be attacked by burglars, and its size always
seems to me much to its disadvantage, in doing any of the work
which usually falls to the members of the different varieties of
"Terriers." The long shaped head, small ears, dark hazel eyes, strong,
well-knit body, with docked tail, and the colour grizzled black above,
and light tan below, will be familiar to most readers of these words. I
have known many beautiful Airedales, some of them (except in size)
nearly perfect in their Terrier character, and on the occasions I have
judged the breed I have had excellent entries of good quality, and I
know now many who keep them, and prefer them to any other breed of dog.
I am bound, however, to say I have never been very much taken up with
them, as I object to their size as being too big to be classed amongst
Terriers for the work of that variety.
[Illustration: BEDLINGTON-TERRIER. CH. "CLYDE-BOY" R.H. SMITH. OWNER.]
_The Bedlington._--This breed, which first appeared at Darlington Dog
show in 1866, had existed in the extreme north of England, for nearly or
quite fifty years before that, and has always been more bred and kept in
the north than in any other part of the country, although I have
occasionally seen good specimens elsewhere. The following extract from a
letter published in "The Field" in March, 1869, from a staunch supporter
of the breed, will be of interest to some of my readers. "The Bedlington
Terrier is fast, and whether on land, or in water, is equally at home;
in appetite, these dogs are dainty, and they seldom fatten; but
experience has shown them to be wiry, enduring, and, in courage, equal
to the bull dog. They will face almost anything, and I know of a dog
which will extinguish a candle or lighted paper at his master's
bidding! To these other good qualities may be added, their marked
intelligence, and hostility to vermin of all kinds. They will encounter
the otter, fox, badger, with the greatest determination. The points of
the Bedlington Terrier, which is a very lively member, as a rule, are as
follows: Skull narrow and domed, and adorned with a silky top-knot; jaws
very strong and punishing and lips tight; nose large and either black or
liver-coloured, according to shade of the coat, eyes small and rather
deeply sunk, their colour following that of body, ears fine, filbert
shaped, tipped with soft silky hair and carried flat against the sides
of the head, neck long and shoulders sloping, body rather narrow at the
chest, but deep at this point, ribs flat, slightly arched at the loins,
which should be powerful, legs straight, feet of fair size, hindquarters
graceful looking and not too heavy, tail tapering almost all the way
from base, carried in a curve like a Turkish Sword; coat much as a
Dandie's, linty, composed of a mixture of hard and soft hair. Colours
blue liver or sandy, or mixtures of above with tanned markings, pure
self colours preferred and any white objectionable. General appearance
that of a particularly alert and active dog of immense energy and
courage, and quite prepared to take his own part, with any dog of any
breed.
[Illustration: WELSH TERRIER CH. "BRYNHIR BURNER" W. S. GLYNN. OWNER.]
_The Welsh Terrier._--Another handy sized breed for pet or companion and
a smart guard is the Welsh Terrier, which is practically a wire-haired
black and tan terrier, not over twenty pounds, and often less, in
weight, head flat and wider at base, eyes set rather wide, muzzle
longish, and a bit stronger than usually seen in Fox Terriers, ears
small, with forward carriage, neck clean and not short, muscular thighs
and well-boned, straight, fore-legs, coat (black, or grizzle and tan, in
colour) wiry, hard and dense, should have no white spots, or markings.
They are very smart, showy dogs and usually very keen on anything in the
vermin, or sporting line, and are being bred very true to type by some
of their patrons, many of whom are very enthusiastic in their praise.
_The Old English Terrier._--A breed closely resembling these are the
_Old English Terriers_, usually rather larger and more grizzled in
colour than their Welsh brethren, and very suitable, being something
like a small Airedale in appearance, as companions or house guards. The
considerable interest taken in Airedales and Welsh Terriers, (both of
which have one or more specialist clubs to look after their interests
and push them forward) has been rather prejudicial to the Old English
Terriers, which have been somewhat neglected, but I should like to see
someone take them up, as there is much of "general utility" about them,
and they should not be allowed to die out.
[Illustration: BLACK & TAN TERRIER CH. STARKIE BEN LT. COL. C. S. DEAN.
OWNER.]
_The Black and Tan Terrier._--Another well-known breed is the Manchester
or Black and Tan Terrier, which, some years since, enjoyed considerable
popularity, and I think the main cause of its decline, was its getting
into the hands of some unscrupulous members of the community, who dyed,
faked, and "rang the changes," as it was called, with them, to such an
extent, that respectable people were afraid to have anything to do with
them. I have no doubt that the cropping edict has also been against
them, as formerly, if a dog had large, or ugly ears, their appearance
was often improved in the cropping, but now, unless the ears are
naturally small, good specimens have little chance in the keen
competition of these dogs. I need hardly describe them as fine-coated,
rather snake-headed dogs with bright eyes of dark colour, and marked
with tan, which should be clear in shade on the legs, thighs, feet, and
other parts. They are well adapted as pets and companions, being smart,
lively and intelligent in their manners and cleanly and vigilant in
their habits. The points of the Manchester or Black and Tan Terrier are
rather elaborate and run as follows: Head long and narrow, flat from the
back to the nose and with no humps at sides or cheek, muzzle long and
tapering, but not weak, eyes small and oval shaped, black and bright.
The correct carriage of the ears is a debatable point since cropping has
been abolished, but probably the drop ear is correct; neck light and
graceful, shoulders sloping, chest rather narrow but deep and the body
slightly arched with good back ribs; forelegs quite straight with well
arched toes and jet black toenails, powerful hindquarters with hocks
well let down, tail very fine and carried almost straight, coat short,
yet close. Colour: Lustrous blue black, with rich mahogany tan markings
along the jaws, under the throat, over the eyes, on the cheeks, inside
the ears, on each side of breast, on the inside of the hind legs,
under the vent and on the forelegs up to above the pastern joint. The
toes, however, have black lines called "pencilling," running up them and
there is a black spot called the thumb mark just along the pastern joint
in front of the limb. The general appearance is that of a high class and
well-bred, smart and neat-looking dog well suited for any work, coming
into the sphere of a terrier, and a fit companion or guard for either
sex, or any rank of life. He can adapt himself to the cottage, or the
palace, and look well in either.
[Illustration: WHITE ENGLISH TERRIER. CH. ECLIPSE J. WALSH. OWNER.]
_The White English Terrier_--I may here mention what is doubtless a
branch of the same variety or closely allied to it, the White English
Terrier, which, but for its colour, being all pure white, is just built
on the same lines, and is suitable for the same purposes, as his black
and tan cousin. Some years since when the lighter weights of bull
terriers were more popular than at present, I think they were largely
crossed with White English, so as to get down their size, and some I
have had, and many I have seen, have undoubtedly had some of the Bull
Terrier blood in them, which could be traced in their skulls, showing
rather more fullness than the breed should indicate, and their
dispositions being rather more warlike than was always convenient to
their owners, or agreeable to their kennel companions. I contend that a
thoroughbred White English Terrier is quite a superior dog and fit
company for anyone. I know some of the best at the present time are
owned by ladies.
Part III
CONTENTS
PART III
PERFORMING AND TOY BREEDS
CHAP. PAGE
XII. Poodles, Pomeranians, Pugs, Schipperkes 219
XIII. Toy Spaniels,--King Charles, Prince Charles, Ruby,
Blenheim, Japanese 245
XIV. Terriers,--Toy, Smooth Black and Tan, Yorkshire,
Maltese, Griffons Bruxelles 263
XV. Toy Bull Dogs, Toy Bull Terriers, Italian
Greyhounds 275
CHAPTER XII
PERFORMING AND TOY BREEDS
POODLES--POMERANIANS--PUGS--SCHIPPERKES
[Illustration: CORDED POODLE CH. "MODEL". MAD^{ME} DAGOIS OWNER.]
[Illustration: CURLY POODLE CH. "RUFUS" MRS R. LONG OWNER.]
_Poodles._--One of the most intelligent breeds in existence, that of the
Poodle, lends itself especially to becoming a pet or companion, soon
becoming warmly attached to its owner, very quick at learning what is
required of it, and very smart and vigilant as a guard. Although, in
ordinary life, we principally see the curly variety, at all the leading
shows, we see specimens of the "corded variety" both white and black in
colour, and with coats quite fearful and wonderful to behold, hanging in
festoons of cords or tags, in some cases of such length as to sweep the
ground as they walk along, which must be a considerable inconvenience to
the dogs, as well as their owners. There has been much correspondence
and discussion on the subject, but I think, after a lengthened
acquaintance with the breed, and having seen and handled nearly all the
best specimens brought forward during the last twenty-five years, there
is no doubt there are two varieties, corded and curly, and although they
have been sometimes interbred, there are corded specimens which would be
corded under any circumstances, and there are curly ones that could not
be turned into corded, however long their coats were left alone. I
speak from my own experience, as I have had Poodles which were never
anything else but curly, whether clipped or unclipped, and others with
coats that would soon become corded if not attended to. I know this is
not a general opinion, but it is my impression of the breed. It used to
be supposed there were only two colours for Poodles, black and white,
but of late years we have seen some very beautiful specimens black and
white, red, brown, slate colour, and grey, and different shades of those
colours, and so many new breeders and exhibitors of these dogs have
appeared in this country and abroad, that I think they may be said to be
in more favour than ever, and at most of the larger shows command large
entries and attract a great deal of attention from the public, I am
told. I had the record entry of eighty specimens at the Ladies' KA Show
at Ranelagh Park, 1896. Of course, any breed which requires exceptional
care in its preparation, and which so soon gives evidence of any neglect
(as in the case of an unshaven and untrimmed Poodle), will always have a
limited number of active adherents, but irrespective of their value for
sporting purposes (in the same way as the English and Irish Water
Spaniels and the Retrievers), all who have kept any of them will know
they are full of merit, good tempered as a rule, born humourists, fond
of children, grand swimmers, excellent guards, and very affectionate and
faithful to their owners and friends. A very high authority, both as a
breeder, exhibitor and judge, has set out the points of a correct Poodle
as follows:--head long, straight and fine; skull rather narrow and
peaked at back, very slight "stop;" long, strong and fine jaw, not full
in cheek; teeth white and level; lips black and rather tight fitting;
gums and roof of mouth black; nose sharp and black; eyes very dark
brown, full of fire and intelligence, nearly almond shaped, leather of
ears long and wide, hanging close to face; well proportioned neck of
fair length and strength; strong muscular shoulders, sloping well to
back; deep and moderately wide chest; short, strong, slightly curved
back; broad muscular loins; ribs well sprung and braced up; small round
feet, toes well arched, pads thick and hard; well set, straight legs,
with plenty of bone and muscle; hind legs very muscular and well bent,
hocks well let down; tail not curled over back, but carried rather gaily
and set on high; coat profuse and of good texture, not silky; if corded,
hanging in tight, even cords; if curled, in strong, thick curls, of even
length, without knots or cords. Colours should be self, whites and
blacks seem to be the most popular. The general appearance is that of a
very active, intelligent and elegant looking dog, stepping out well and
carrying himself proudly.
[Illustration: WHITE POMERANIAN CH. "KÖNIG of ROZELLE" MISS HAMILTON
OWNER.]
_Pomeranians._--Another breed, which has made gigantic strides in public
favour of late years, is the Pomeranian, which may be best described, as
a miniature copy of the Rough-coated Collie, as it resembles it in
nearly every respect, except the carriage of ears and tail, the former
being pricked and carried bolt upright, and the latter curled over the
side and back of the body. The colours are very varied, starting with
white, black, brown, blue, almost every shade of those colours can be
met with, besides parti-colours, and the sizes run from nearly thirty
pounds to three pounds in weight. Other things being equal, the smaller
the size, the more valuable they are, and high class specimens
frequently change hands at prices ranging from £10 to £200, so that it
has lately been one of the most profitable breeds to produce, as good
specimens have been commanding fair prices, and plenty of buyers were
found for anything out of the common at almost any price. Browns have
been greatly in favour, latterly even more so than blacks, and next to
them come whites, but hitherto, there has been a difficulty in obtaining
very small whites, and if this is overcome (and many of the leading
breeders are doing their best), I think the toy whites will be greatly
sought after; some of the little blacks and browns are very beautiful,
and I have known very long figures, £100 and over, refused for them by
their owners! Being very lively, cheerful and affectionate, and
exceedingly sharp and active as guards, this breed is admirably adapted
as a pet or companion, and they make very sharp house dogs. It is not
desirable to chain them up, as the rubbing of the collar and chain is
almost certain to interfere with the set of the crest and frill which in
this breed (as in Collies), form such attractive features in their
appearance. Pomeranians are seemingly popular with all classes, from
Royalty downward. Her Majesty the Queen has a large kennel of them at
Windsor, which I had the honour of an invitation to inspect, and can
testify to the great interest taken in the breed, and the number of
specimens kept, with every care and consideration shown for their
happiness and comfort. Her Majesty's collection, when I saw them, some
time since, consisted almost entirely of what I should call "off
colours" that is, not white, black, brown or blue, but shades and
mixtures of those and other colours, some exceedingly pretty, and
although somewhat larger in size, being mostly "small-medium," and not
so fine in head as many of the dogs now shown, are so good in other
respects, that they have often successfully competed with well-known
specimens, when Her Majesty has entered any at the Royal Agricultural
Hall and Crystal Palace Shows. A great many are also kept by persons in
the higher, middle and lower ranks of life, both in this country and the
continent of Europe (where, no doubt, the breed originated), and it is a
common occurrence, when a popular judge is officiating at one of the
larger shows, to see over fifty entries of Pomeranians in the various
classes. I have frequently had one hundred, and sometimes even more
entries to judge, at the larger shows, and a puzzling job to undertake,
on a dull day, in a failing light, is to tackle a class of from twenty
to twenty-five black specimens, and try to find out the respective
merits of each when there are probably ten or a dozen really good ones
amongst the lot, though, to an outsider, they all look much alike.
Small, good specimens fetch very long prices, and the breed is
exceedingly popular.
[Illustration: POMERANIAN "MARCO" H. M. QUEEN VICTORIA OWNER.]
The illustrations of this variety are Miss Hamilton's White Dog, the
most successful winner of his colour ever shown, H. M., the Queen's Red
Dog, a beautiful specimen of the colour and the constant companion of
Her Gracious Majesty; Mr. J. Duckworth's Fawn Dog, one of the best
headed and coated specimens shown for some time; Miss A. de Pass's Toy
Brown, a most perfect and charming specimen, who has taken more prizes
than any of her size and colour.
[Illustration: FAWN POMERANIAN CH. "BRILLIANT" J. DUCKWORTH OWNER.]
The points are as follows: In general build, and coat more especially,
the Pomeranians should somewhat resemble the Rough-coated Collie, with
the difference that his head should be shorter, ears smaller and carried
perfectly erect; and his tail curled up from the root tightly over his
back, or lying flat on his back. He must be a compact little dog, well
proportioned in build, standing on straight limbs, and possessing a
profuse coat of long and perfectly straight silky or glossy hair all
over his body, forming a mane, round his neck, of longer hair, with the
forelegs feathered, and the thighs more heavily feathered. He must be
sharp and intelligent in expression, and exhibit great activity and
buoyancy of disposition, and should not exceed twenty pounds in weight,
the smaller specimens being preferable. At the larger shows they are
generally divided into over eight pounds and under eight pounds.
Colours, white, black, brown, blue and sable, and any combination of
those colours. At the present time there is a feeling rather in favour
of the shades of brown, but there are many very beautiful specimens of
all the colours mentioned above.
[Illustration: SMALL POMERANIAN CHAMPION of CHAMPIONS AND PRIMIER "TINA"
MISS ADA DE PASS OWNER.]
[Illustration: FAWN PUG CH. "YORK". Mrs GRELICHE OWNER.]
_Pugs._--One of the really old-fashioned pets and companions is the Pug,
of which I have for the last thirty years generally had some
specimens about my house, and usually, when I have judged the breed,
have been favoured with record entries. I remember on one occasion, when
I had a very heavy day at an important London show, and had taken an
immense amount of trouble, in the open, on a broiling day in June or
July, when the whole of my exhibitors were of the fair sex, and ranged
from the highest in the kennel-world, Her Royal Highness, the Princess
of Wales, to those who would not be ashamed to be included amongst "the
working classes," I thought, "I shall catch it pretty warmly over this
job." I hardly supposed it within the bounds of possibility for any
living "mere man," to give satisfaction to such a large number of the
other sex, especially when their own particular pets were concerned, so
that I was certainly gratified to have a letter, some weeks after, from
the Hon. Secretary of the show (whose daughter was an exhibitor and by
no means a novice in Pugs either), stating that I had "achieved the
unique feat of pleasing every one, as not a single complaint or grumble
had been heard or received by the committee from the large body of Pug
exhibitors." I mention this, not for the purpose of self-glorification,
but to show that, although generally judges are supposed to meet with
obloquy and abuse, often not deserved, they do, sometimes, receive
kindly recognition of their endeavours, to pick out the best specimens
brought under their notice! A good Pug should have a large skull, in
proportion to size, well-defined stop, with high forehead, square face,
wide-apart eyes, dark and large, round and rather prominent; thin,
small ears, carried well forward, a desideratum is a black thumb mark in
middle of skull, the mask and ears should be black. Heavy wrinkles about
head and face; muscular, thick neck, with skin loose; square, thick,
cobby body; deep loins; well rounded ribs; dark trace down back very
desirable; also a dark mole on each cheek; muscular hindquarters; firm
thighs; strong, short, straight fore legs; well arched, firm, round
feet, with black toe nails if possible; tail tightly curled on hips,
double turn much desired; coat, except on tail, where it is longer and
harsher, should be glossy, soft and short. A very smart, showy and
active dog, _often an arrant coward_, but with a great appearance of
dignity, and even ferocity, which is not without its impression on the
public. My experience of the breed is that they are, as a rule, very
affectionate, and devoted to their owners, "good-doers" and nearly
always ready for anything in the way of eating and drinking, great
lovers of comfort, and very jealous of any other members of the doggy
community being made as much of as themselves. They are very lively,
bustling companions, and very popular with those who have kept them. I
omitted to say, that the colours are silver fawn and apricot fawn, and
of late years, there is also a black variety, the points of which are
really the same as in the fawns, but partly concealed by the colour. I
think, as a rule, the blacks run more leggy, and many of them heavier
than the fawns, but I have had some beautiful specimens of both colours
before me many times, and I like a good one, of _any size_,
although, if you _can_ get true Pug qualities, in a small one, it is all
the better.
Two of the best-known illustrate this variety.
[Illustration: BLACK PUG CH. & PREMIER "DUKE BEIRA". MISS C. F. A.
JENKINSON OWNER.]
[Illustration: SCHIPPERCHE CH. "ZWARTE PIOT" I. N. WOODIWISS OWNER.]
_Schipperkes._--The Schipperke is rather a new breed in this country,
and much kept as a pet and companion by its supporters. It was, I think,
imported originally from Belgium, where, I understand, though I do not
remember seeing many there, it has long been used by the Bargees as a
protection on board their boats for their persons and property on their
long journeys through the canals. In appearance it is something like a
medium or rather small-sized black Pomeranian, out of coat and without
any tail, the texture of the coat dense and harsh, soft on the ears,
smooth on the head, front of hocks and forelegs, but forming a mane or
frill, round neck and shoulders; size should not exceed twenty pounds,
and all the better if it is less; eyes small, slightly oval, and dark
brown in colour; they make very sharp little watch dogs, are always on
the move, and anxious to know the ins and outs of what comes in their
way, very excitable and lively in temperament, the former being
expressed by raising their mane referred to, barking sharply and running
and jumping about; they are good and game vermin killers, as a general
rule.
CHAPTER XIII
PERFORMING AND TOY BREEDS (_Continued_)
TOY SPANIELS--KING CHARLES--PRINCE CHARLES--BLENHEIM--RUBY--JAPANESE
[Illustration: KING CHARLES SPANIEL CH. "LAUREATE" MRS MCLAREN
MORRISON, OWNER.]
I now come to another group of undoubted pets and companions, I mean the
Toy Spaniels, and a charming lot they are. I will briefly notice them in
their usually accepted order, taking our old friend, the King Charles,
first. I am afraid I shall be thought "laudator temporis acti," and
old-fashioned, but hardened "all-round dog lover" as I am, and have
been, ever since I knew one end of a dog from another, I must say, I
dearly love a good "King Charles," and, as I always go through the
classes for them, at all the big shows, even when I have nothing,
judicially, to do with them, I am grieved to see such small entries of
these beautiful dogs, and so few good enough to "fill the eye" of a
critical fancier. It is not so much of the size, or colours I complain,
as the coats, which are so, very often, curly, a bad fault, in my
opinion, and many of them are "smutty" and dark in their tan. Of course
there are notable exceptions, but I greatly fear that other dog breeds,
which have been warmly "pushed" of late years, in every possible way,
and, generally, by interested parties, have disheartened the breeders of
some of the Toy Spaniels, or, we should see more good ones coming out!
The points of the breed to be desired are large round skull, with well
defined "stop," large, lustrous eyes, short, turned-up muzzle, long
pendulous ears, well-feathered; fairly long neck, short and compact
back, short straight fore-legs, feet large, soft, profuse coat, quite
straight, without tendency to curl, colour glossy, unbroken black, and
rich mahogany tan. Weight not to exceed twelve pounds, as much less as
possible, with quality.
[Illustration: BLENHEIM SPANIEL. CH. "ROLLO" MRS. FORDER, OWNER.]
_The Blenheim Spaniel._--The next of this charming group to be
considered, is the Blenheim Spaniel, with which, its having been the
favourite breed of my dear mother, and her mother, I have been more
associated than with some of the others; the points of a perfect
specimen are almost entirely the same as in the King Charles, except
that the colours are red and white, with more of the latter than the
former, and it is very desirable to have a distinct mark of red about
the size of a shilling or florin, on the upper part of the skull, which
is termed "the spot" and is a recognised peculiarity of this variety.
[Illustration: PRINCE CHARLES SPANIEL CH. "VICTOR WILD" H. TAYLOR
OWNER.]
_The Prince Charles Spaniel._--Another variety is known as the Prince
Charles, and the points of this again are the same as of the King
Charles, except in colour, which is white with a good deal of black and
tan markings. When evenly marked, and well formed in other ways, they
are very attractive little fellows. I have noticed a tendency,
particularly with these, to get specimens too large; in my opinion,
they should be under the maximum weight allowed (twelve pounds) as the
intention is, they should be not too heavy for a lady to pick up, and
carry her little companion, when out with it, if so disposed. So that,
from six to ten pounds would be a more suitable weight, and such as you
may see in numbers of Yorkshire Terriers, Griffons, Pomeranians and
Japanese Spaniels, some of the keenest rivals of the native Toy
Spaniels. In fact many of all those varieties can be obtained well under
five pounds weight, or even less if desired.
[Illustration: RUBY SPANIEL. CH. "JASPER" MRS. WOODGATE OWNER.]
_The Ruby Toy Spaniel._--Another very beautiful variety, is the Ruby
Spaniel, something the colour of its larger cousin, the Sussex Spaniel,
but richer, and brighter in tone. I am afraid these are not being so
much bred as they were some years since, but all true dog lovers, would
regret their becoming extinct, on account of their great beauty and
aristocratic appearance; to be correct, the colour should be quite free
from white, as rich and bright as possible, and the points same as King
Charles and without legginess, which seems to affect these more than the
other varieties; I suppose, there is little doubt the native breeds of
Toy Spaniels have been much interbred, and I have been told by breeders
they have had in one litter a specimen of all four breeds. I cannot
vouch for the truth of this, as it has not happened within my own
experience, but if true, it confirms the idea of how much they have been
interbred.
[Illustration: JAPANESE SPANIEL CH. "DAI BUTZU" MRS. ADDIS OWNER.]
_The Japanese Spaniel._--The last of the Toy Spaniel family to be
noticed is the Japanese Spaniel, and, at the present time, I think, it
enjoys the most popularity, and is kept by ladies of high rank, as well
as by their humbler fellow-creatures. In point of colour, they most
resemble the Prince Charlies, and they are sometimes, but not often,
seen almost the colours of a Blenheim. They are not so high, or domed in
skull, but much wider, both in head and face, with very short nose,
fairly large, pendulous ears, large, dark, full eyes, rather short on
legs, cobby in body, and with tail curled over back, something in the
way of the Maltese Terrier. They have a very quaint, old-fashioned look
about them, even when puppies, and, unless they have been bred in this
country, or, until they get acclimatized, are certainly delicate, and
the mortality amongst the imported specimens has been very great. It is
now sometime since I had any of the breed, and, at that time, larger
specimens were in vogue than now appear at our shows; but no doubt, as
ladies' pets, they are better, not exceeding eight or nine pounds. I may
mention, to prove how these pretty little creatures have come forward of
late years, I was present at a large London show, where a Japanese
Spaniel, belonging to a friend of mine, a well-known lady-exhibitor, was
awarded the first prize (a seventy-guinea silver cup in which the winner
might have been hidden!) as the "Champion of champions," in a class
composed of all the specimens of all kinds of dogs, that had been
awarded a championship at that show, and the gratified owner had the
honour of receiving the splendid prize from H. R. H. the Princess of
Wales, who was also an exhibitor at the show, and is, we all know, a
keen admirer of dogs in general.
The portrait of this beautiful specimen illustrates this variety.
CHAPTER XIV
PERFORMING AND TOY BREEDS (_Continued_)
TOY TERRIERS--SMOOTH BLACK AND TAN--YORKSHIRE--MALTESE--GRIFFONS
BRUXELLES
[Illustration: TOY TERRIER. CH. "MASCOTTE MODEL" Mrs MONK OWNER.]
To take these in the above order, I propose to say a few words about
each. I regret to say that, really first-rate specimens of the Toy Black
and Tans are few and far between, there are many of the right size, and
colour, but, so many fail in head, which should be like that of a true
terrier of the "Manchester" type, in miniature, but the majority are too
round and short in skull, and the other "points" of the breeds are the
same. I need not say that a good specimen is a beautiful little creature
and a charming pet for a lady, and very smart and showy. I have little
doubt that the edict against cropping has had a prejudicial effect on
them, as well as their larger brethren, and that having to wear such
ears, as they have been born with, gives no chance for the skill of the
"cropper" to improve their appearance, and, a great many of the breed
appear to have what are known as "Bat," or "Tulip," ears, which look out
of proportion to their size. I am in hopes that breeders may succeed (as
has been done with the "Manchesters") in breeding more specimens with
small drop ears, of the orthodox type, when, no doubt, a revival of
interest will be taken in this somewhat neglected variety. One of the
best seen for years illustrates this variety. Occasionally more or less
good specimens of the White English Smooth Terrier, in miniature, are
seen, and when correct in points, they are very pretty.
[Illustration: YORKSHIRE TERRIER. CH. "ASHTON QUEEN" Mdes WALTON &
BEARD OWNERS].
_Yorkshire Toy Terrier._--I will now speak of another very beautiful
breed of dogs, well suited as ladies' pets. Yorkshire Terriers,
sometimes not exceeding three pounds in weight, colour slate blue on
back and sides, also part of head, the rest a golden tan; when in form,
the coat sweeps the ground, and is soft and bright in texture, and
colour; of course, such a breed cannot be kept "up to the mark" without
some care, and trouble, but a good specimen, turned out in correct form,
is "quite a picture," and provokes any amount of admiration particularly
amongst the fair sex, and I have known any sum from £5 to £250 to be
paid for really tip-toppers, to be kept as companions, for which they
are well suited, and I can, from my own experience, testify to their
affectionate and engaging qualities. Of course their coats must be kept
to a reasonable length, often brushed out, and they would not be
suitable inmates for a kennel, being essentially a breed for indoors.
The best specimen living illustrates this variety.
[Illustration: MALTESE TERRIER. CH. "PIXIE". J. JACOBS OWNER.]
_Maltese Terriers._--Another of the Pet Dogs, proper, is the lovely
little Maltese Terrier, whose praises I have been singing for years, and
I am delighted to see they are slowly coming back into favour.
Those of my readers who remember the Team shown, many years since, by
the late Lady Giffard, will, I think, confirm my opinion, that a more
beautiful lot of ladies' pet dogs could not be seen. To those not
acquainted with the breed, I may say, they resemble very small
drop-eared Skye Terriers, with pure white long coats, often sweeping the
ground, and almost like floss silk in texture, with short backs and
tails curled over them, dark, piercing eyes and black noses. They are
very smart, corky little fellows. I admire them greatly, and have done
my best for some years past to revive interest in them, and am glad to
see better entries at shows which provide classes and judges to suit
them. This is thought to be one of the oldest of the Toy breeds, having
been highly prized by the ladies of ancient Greece, and other nations of
that historic period. Head should be much like that of a drop-eared Skye
in miniature. Coat long, straight and silky, often sweeping the ground,
quite free from curl, or wooliness. Nose and roof of mouth black, ears
moderately long, well feathered, with hair mingling on neck. Tail short,
well feathered, and curled tightly over back. Colour, pure white,
without markings, or even tints of any other colour. Weight five to six
pounds, the smaller the better, other points being equal.
By the kindness of my old friend, Mr. J. Jacobs, the best known breeder
of Maltese, I have been able to give a portrait of his beautiful little
champion.
[Illustration: GRIFFON BRUXELLES "MARQUIS DE CARABAS" COUNT DE BYLANDT
OWNER.]
_Griffons Bruxelles._--One of the most recent of all the breeds suitable
as pets and companions and which has been very much "boomed" the last
few years, is the above named, somewhere about the size, and a little
the shape of a Yorkshire Toy Terrier, if you can imagine one with a
short harsh coat instead of a long silky one, and with a chin prominent
as possible, without showing the teeth, in fact, "under-jawed;" round
nearly black eyes; lashes, and lids dark, short black nose, with hair
around it and the eyes; prick ears carried straight up as darts, feet
longish; tail docked rather short; head round and covered with harsh
hair, not woolly or silky; longer round eyes, nose, lips (which should
have a "moustache" over them,) and cheeks; colour preferred, chestnut
red, wiry rough, and plentiful coat, but not long. Weight for the larger
variety nine pounds maximum; for the smaller five pounds maximum. These
are cobby in build, active, intelligent, hardy little fellows, very
quaint, comical, and self-important in their ways, which makes them
attractive, even to persons not taking much interest in dogs in general;
they are now being pushed forward very much and have a club of their
own, so they seem likely to, what is called "catch on!"
I have secured the portrait of a grand little specimen of this variety
belonging to the well known judge, Count H. de Bylandt.
CHAPTER XV
PERFORMING AND TOY BREEDS (_Continued_)
TOY BULL DOGS--TOY BULL TERRIERS--ITALIAN GREYHOUNDS
[Illustration: TOY BULLDOG "RABOT DE BEAUBOURG" M. PETIT OWNER.]
_Toy Bull Dogs._--Have been much taken up of late, and strange though it
may seem, for an offshoot, or miniature variety of an old English breed,
the larger number of the best that have appeared at the shows, so far,
have come from France! I have seen many specimens with good heads and
bodies, but comparatively few with the correct type of ear, the majority
having what I described in speaking of Smooth Toy Terriers, as "Bat or
Tulip" ears, which give rather a silly, vacant, expression to the face.
However, the breed is being so eagerly patronised by people in the
higher ranks, and good specimens easily command such high prices, that
there is little reason to doubt, breeders will succeed in producing more
specimens, with the correct type of ear, when we shall see a great
improvement in the number and quality of the entries at all those shows
which provide classes for these quaint little animals, which should be
kept down to a twenty-pound limit at most, if they are to retain their
title to be classified amongst the "Toys."
[Illustration: TOY BULL TERRIER "LILY" C. H. LANE OWNER.]
_Toy Bull Terriers._--The Toy Bull Terriers which have been a good deal
encouraged of late years, should be counterparts of the larger breed,
but too many of them fail in head properties, and are both too short in
face and too round in skull, very often, they have a small patch of
brindle or other colour on some part of their head or body, although
they are preferred pure white, if possible. For many years I kept some
of these, and bred them as small as two and a half pounds, but even at
that weight their courage did not seem less, and the smallest I ever had
was killed by her reckless attack on an antagonist far beyond her
powers. I have known several others without the slightest consideration
of their size and weight, rush upon foes that could actually have
swallowed them, without the least hesitation, or any show of fear.
[Illustration: ITALIAN GREYHOUND CH. "LARKFIELD LEVERET" P. TURNER,
OWNER.]
_Italian Greyhounds._--Another very graceful and elegant breed is the
Italian Greyhound, which some years ago was much more kept as a pet than
of late; it is more slightly built and shorter in head than the Whippet,
and the colours most often seen are golden fawns and creams, but I have
had some before me, and well shaped ones too, red, red and white, and
blue fawn, the last named being the best of the "off colours." The coat
should be very fine, soft and glossy, the best size is not exceeding
eight or eight and a half pounds, in weight. They are exceedingly
graceful, elegant little creatures, but rightly or wrongly (as this is
one of the few breeds of dogs, I have not bred or kept,) give me the
impression of being delicate and requiring care and attention.
The breed seems mostly in the hands of three or four persons, but I am
pleased to say, there are still some excellent specimens of both sexes
to be seen, so that I am in hopes there is no immediate fear of its
extinction, as this is one of the breeds that would not look out of
place in company with the highest in the land.
The portrait of a good and typical specimen, from Mrs. P. Turner's
well-known kennel, illustrates this variety.
Part IV
CONTENTS
PART IV
CHAP. PAGE
XVI. Something About Foreign Dogs 291
XVII. Humours and Vagaries of the Show Rings 311
XVIII. }
to } Anecdotes About Dogs, Personal and Selected 322
XXIII. }
XXIV. A Few Words About General Management and Some
Simple Maladies, to Which Dogs are Subject and
Their Treatment 389