The following is from a correspondent: ‘A near neighbour of mine has
a large mongrel dog, a terrible nuisance to all passing the house,
which unfortunately stands near the highway. The brute has the nasty
habit of rushing out and attacking every passing vehicle. Complaints
were loud and numerous; and at length the owner hit upon a plan which
he thought would effectually cure his dog. He attached a small log of
wood or a “clog” by a chain to his collar. This answered admirably;
for no sooner did the dog start in pursuit of anything than the clog
not only checked his speed but generally rolled him over into the
bargain. Now this would not do. Doggie was evidently puzzled, and
reflected upon the position; and if he did not possess reasoning
powers, he certainly shewed something very like them, for he quickly
overcame the difficulty, and to the surprise of all, was soon at his
old work, nearly as bad as ever. And this is how he managed. No longer
did he attempt to drag the clog on the ground and allow it to check
and upset him, but before starting he caught it up in his mouth, ran
before the passing horse, dropped it, and commenced the attack; and
when distanced, would again seize the clog in his mouth, and resume his
position ahead, and thus became as great a pest as ever. Even on his
ordinary travels about he is now seen carrying his clog in his mouth,
instead of letting it drag on the ground between his legs.’