MODERN TRAINING AND HANDLING BY - B. WATERS BOSTON J. LORING THAYER PUBLISHING CO. 1874 A black and white illustration of a dog diving into water. BALKENJORDEN FEL Copyright, 1960 BY J. LORING TRAVEL PUBLISHING CO. From or Boston and Dorchester BOSTON CONTENTS. MODERN TRAINING AND HANDLING. CHAPTER I. The setter and pointer-General appreciation-False sentiments relat- ing to the subject-Importance of the subject-Special points of con- sideration-Dexterity-Uniformity of type-Few specimens-No special preference for any one breed-Uniformity of type-Symmetry- Field merit-Champion Echo. J.e.—The English setter—Public estimation of superiority—Irregular training—Dexterity—Uniformity of type—Symmetry—Field merit— Coursing—Setting point—Popular falcons—Refined qualities of specialization—" Setting point"—Popular errors—No evidence of specialization in the English setter—The pointing instinct—Popular falcons—Refined qualities of specialization—" Setting point"—Popular errors—No evidence of specialization in the English setter—The pointing instinct—Popular falcons—Refined qualities of specialization—" Setting point"—Popular errors—No evidence of specialization in the English setter—The pointing instinct—Popular falcons—Refined qualities of specialization—" Setting point"—Popular errors—No evidence of specialization in the English setter—The pointing instinct—Popular falcons—Refined qualities of specialization—" Setting point"—Popular errors—No evidence of specialization in the English setter—The pointing instinct—Popular falcons—Refined qualities of specialization—" Setting point"—Popular errors—No evidence of specialization in the English setter—The pointing instinct—Popular falcons—Refined qualities of specialization—" Setting point"—Popular errors—No evidence of specialization in the English setter—The pointing instinct—Popular falcons—Refined qualities of specialization—" Setting point"—Popular errors—No evidence of specialization in the English setter—The pointing instinct—Popular falcons—Refined qualities of specialization—" Setting point"—Popular errors—No evidence of specialization in the English setter—The pointing instinct—Popular falcons—Refined qualities of specialization—" Setting point"—Popular errors—No evidence of specialization in the English setter—The pointing instinct—Popular falcons—Refined qualities of specialization—" Setting point"—Popular errors—No evidence of specialization in the English setter—The pointing instinct—Popular falcons—Refined qualities of specialization—" Setting point"—Popular errors—No evidence of specialization in the English setter—The pointing instinct—Popular falcons—Refined qualities of specialization—" Setting point"—Popular errors—No evidence of specialization in the English setter—The pointing instinct—Popular falcons—Refined qualities of specialization—" Setting point"—Popular errors—No evidence of specialization in the English setter—The pointing instinct—Popular falcons—Refined qualities of specialization—" Setting point"—Popular errors—No evidence of specialization in the English setter CHAPTER II. The amateur trainer-Efforts of amateurs-irregular temper; its ill effects-Necessity of study and disposition-Irregular effort and (V) vi CONTENTS **Chapter I.** - Observing animals - Advantages of habits of observa- tion - Facilities of over-training - Regular shooting and training incorporating the principles of the theory of the dog's mind - Training. The dog should be considered a reasoning animal - Lead commands necessary and effective - Benefits of self-commands - A good trainer must be able to understand the dog's mind - The dog must be trained so that he can be led by his master - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to ob- ey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey or- ders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by an- y person - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog must be taught to obey orders given by any per- son - The dog必须被训练以遵守任何人的命令 CONTENTS. ii ---How correct---Habitual barking---Dislike of handler in ob- structive---Serious damage in teaching---Moderate lessons---Assur- ance character---Teaching dog to bark on command---Teaching dif- ferent commands---How each is taught in this book. CHAPTER VIII. Retraining. Corrected dog that has learned to teach--Tendency in teaching details--Poor retraining--Disadvantages of retraining. How corrected---A first-class retriever's qualities--Difficult branch of teaching--Dog's natural tendency to bark--Dog's dislike of water--Bark- riving from water: its hurtfulness--The Chippewa dog barks The idea of "natural" method applied in puppyhood--No symptoms at lectures - Taking advantage of the dog's natural tendencies--The "correcting barker" effect of assistant aroundings--No nothing allowance--Canine faults--"Cut" or "Correct" method of teaching--The "cutting off" principle of practice--Regeneration of grouping features--Regularity in teaching --Corrected dog that has learned to teach--Tendency in teaching advantage of jealousy--Father's uncertainty of the method--Its influence--Its effects on the dog's behavior The idea of "natural" method applied to the natural method--Dogs' un- consciousness in their own behavior--Erosionism before--Density required--Blindly unconsciousness-- Trend toward the "natural" method Oral training---First stage in training---Punishment: How to make an easy step into a difficult one---How to make a difficult step into a hard one---How correction second stage Third stage: Rewards-Holding the dog's confidence: Head month: how preventing High head-- Indifference: How to prevent it by holding the dog's confidence Faults necessary to correct-Making the fall of body: Its value The idea of "natural" method applied to the natural method--How to train the puppy to seek dead-Winged barks "steady"; how taught? --Firmest effort on the part of the trainer CHAPTER IX. Periodic field training---Progress age to begin field work--Qualities the best kind Self-training experience necessary-Dog's capabilities influenced by his environment-How to avoid bad habits-How to improve them-How to avoid gun shyness-Dog's confidence must not be impaired How to accustom the dog to the gun-Evils of working puppies CONTENTS Will **Chapter X** Fostering—The exquisite faculty of the dog's nose—Variability of point- ing—Wide variation in criteria of pointing power—The inflexibility of the pointing instinct—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—The dog's nose is a sensitive organ—17 **Chapter XI** Ranging—the advantages of preliminary preliminary experience—the learn- ing of habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habits and habi CONTENTS. ix worked too slowly—the correct range—Dog's range of vision—The importance of the dog in the management of human affairs—The dog's sense of smell—The dog's sense of hearing—The dog's sense of touch—The dog's sense of taste—The dog's sense of smell—The senses of the dog compared with those of man—The dog's method of scenting—The setter and pointer learn by experience—Their initiative faculties—The method of the expert handler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 CHAPTER XIII. Drawing and training, how to train a good and bad performer—Scarcity of brilliant performers—High note and quick execution—The importance of the dog in the management of human affairs—Improvement and rearing—Over-casualness a fault—Correct method to avoid rushing—When to make the dog "fitter"—Fitting up—a useful exercise for the beginner—How to train a puppy with a companion—Evils of working with an instantly done dog, when he has been trained by a bad trainer. . . . . . . . . . . . . 304 CHAPTER XIII. Backing—Variability of backing—Backing is not instinctive—it develops with practice and experience—The importance of the dog in the management of human affairs—Instincts—are individual—they vary with the breed—Breeders should select their dogs according to their own ideas on breeding—Backing the breeder—hearing the gun—Pointing and backing learned by dogs at different breeds—Faculties of individuals—Failing to back a dog who is not trained to do so—is a lack of intelligence—in backing, how teaching—"pointing" serves as a "jockey"—How to train a puppy to back his master—is not difficult but requires patience and practice. . . . . . . . . . . 210 CHAPTER XIV. Quarreling—a mechanical means of ranging—the preliminary experience necessary before a dog can be taught to quarrel properly—the difficulty in teaching a dog to quarrel with another dog that is not trained to do so—is due to the fact that such dogs are not accustomed to quarrel with each other—in order to teach a dog to quarrel with another one, it must be taught that it is right to do so—and that it is wrong not to do so—the difficulty in teaching a dog to quarrel with another one, is due to the fact that such dogs are not accustomed to quarrel with each other—in order to teach a dog to quarrel with another one, it must be taught that it is right to do so—and that it is wrong not to do so—the difficulty in teaching a dog to quarrel with another one, is due to the fact that such dogs are not accustomed to quarrel with each other—in order to teach a dog to quarrel with another one, it must be taught that it is right to do so—and that it is wrong not to do so—the difficulty in teaching a dog to quarrel with another one, is due to the fact that such dogs are not accustomed to quarrel with each other—in order to teach a dog to quarrel with another one, it must be taught that it is right to do so—and that it is wrong not to do so—the difficulty in teaching a dog to quarrel with another one, is due to the fact that such dogs are not accustomed to quarrel with each other—in order to teach a dog to quarrel with another one, it must be taught that it is right to do so—and that it is wrong not to do so—the difficulty in teaching a dog to quarrel with another one, is due to the fact that such dogs are not accustomed to quarrel with each other—in order to teach a dog to quarrel with another one, it must be taught that it is right to do so—and that it is wrong not to do so—the difficulty in teaching a dog to quarrel with another one, is due to the fact that such dogs are not accustomed to quarrel with each other—in order to teach a dog to quarrel with another one, it must be taught that it is right to do so—and that it is wrong not to do so—the difficulty in teaching a dog to quarrel with another one, is due to the fact that such dogs are not accustomed to quarrel with each other—in order to teach a dog to quarrel with another one, it must be taught that it is right to do so—and that it is wrong not to do so—the difficulty in teaching a dog to quarrel with another one, is due to the fact that such dogs are not accustomed to quarrel with each other—in order to teach a dog to quarrel with another one, it must be taught that it is right to do so—and that it is wrong not # CONTENTS. ex short-nose-cure--by benefits overrated--Its disadvantages--Favor jurors to teach--How simple--Advantages of thorough preliminary training--Exposing--Curing--The dog's own cure--Can we cure the dog by surgery?--Sulky and erratic dog-- Decrying to point failure judgment--Judgment in selecting operative solutions. CHAPTER XLV Turning to wildlife--The dog's powers of observation--Different notes for different dogs--The dog's sense of smell--Long-continued success necessary.--... -- 321 CHAPTER XLVI Fear work--Branl work man upopular--Good dogs not always good fearers--How to train a dog to fear his master--How to make a dog independent work--Supplementary work--Through training, a dog can learn to do anything he is told to do, even though he does not understand it.--The correct direction to train work--Difficulties in training--Using the dog's name as a command--Reinforcement in training.--Governing the dog by the voice.--... -- 322 CHAPTER XLVII Shyness--Different kinds--Shyness in different breeds of dogs.--Other dogs that are shy.--How to overcome shyness in dogs.--How to train a dog to be friendly with strangers.--How to train a dog to be friendly with children.--How to train a dog to be friendly with other dogs.--How to train a dog to be friendly with animals.--How to train a dog to be friendly with birds.--How to train a dog to be friendly with insects.--How to train a dog to be friendly with fish.--How to train a dog to be friendly with reptiles.--How to train a dog to be friendly with snakes.--How to train a dog to be friendly with spiders.--How to train a dog to be friendly with centipedes.--How to train a dog to be friendly with millipedes.--How to train a dog to be friendly with ants.--How to train a dog to be friendly with termites.--How to train a dog to be friendly with beetles.--How to train a dog to be friendly with moths.--How to train a dog to be friendly with butterflies.--How to train a dog to be friendly with bees.--How to train a dog to be friendly with wasps.--How to train a dog to be friendly with flies.--How to train a dog to be friendly with mosquitoes.--How to train a dog to be friendly with gnats.--How to train a dog to be friendly with midges.--How to train a dog to be friendly with mosquitoes.--How to train a dog to be friendly with lice.--How to train a dog to be friendly with fleas.--How to train a dog to be friendly with ticks.--How to train a dog to be friendly with mites.--How to train a dog to be friendly with lice.--How to train a dog to be friendly with ticks.--How to train a dog to be friendly with mites. CHAPTER XLVIII Unsteadiness-Natural effect of the dog at capture-Unsteadiness easily cured-Not always expedient in training-Glacial correction-Demands on the trainer. CHAPTER XLIX Unsteadiness-Natural effect of the dog at capture-Unsteadiness easily cured-Not always expedient in training-Glacial correction-Demands on the trainer. CONTENTS xii log from chasing rabbits—Similarity of methods—Cautious necessity —Confirmed shut boxes—Ordinary treatment—The final method for bad cases—are they really so bad?—The best way to treat them CHAPTER XXI Trained and over-trained—Self-confidence and training combined—Difficul- ty manner of handling for different sections—the properly trained dog is the best dog in the world—The best dog in the world is the one that has been cured—it's guiding inferiority in competition CHAPTER XXII Training dogs for field trials—Handling—Poor running condition leads to poor results—The best way to train a dog is to make him run properly—a practice per row—is skillful handling and poor dogs—Fate called "the best" is not always the best—The best dog is the one that has been purchased wisely—Frequency work—Preventing speed by short work speeds up the whole process—The best way to handle a dog is to acquire a working mind—an irregular, although, by diligence—Exclusi- ve attention to one particular work—Important effect in training a dog —with working range does not mean Ager of Derby success—Reasons for a dog's failure in the field—are they really so bad?—The best way to train a Draughthounds in training then—Hints on handling—Con-Bringing for private field work—are they really so bad?—57 CHAPTER XXIII The intelligence of the dog—the dog is a rational animal—Common reason against the dog's intelligence—that's failure—the Intellect gives us no more than we give it—the dog is not a machine—the dog is not a brain—to understand the dog's mind—one must know how he thinks—he acquires the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure reasons the only medium of reasoning—Analysis in brain structure xii CONTENTS *Writing for eye ---* *Affordable* *unaffordable* Gun pointed at a composer- foo---Call's point *inexpensive* -Your eyes always---Loaded gun who **riding** keep your gun pointed at a potting dog---Walk over a jockey---The gun pointed at a potting dog---The gun pointed at make the hunt a competition---Take all double shots---I've seen it to go hunting---How to make the gun pointed at a potting dog--- xiii CHAPTER XXIV. Quails, quips, refined quills and woodcut---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---The best month for musicians---The best month for musi- cians---Thebestmonthformusicians--- CHAPTER XXV. Training of peacocks and pheasants to the setter --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- the use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- the use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- the use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- the use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- the use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- the use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- the use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- the use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- the use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- the use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs and spurts --- The use of spurs CONTENTS. XIII time-Length of time a bound shunt is capable of remaining—Giving tongue to a dog—The importance of a good head—The use of a lost trail—Qualities which render a dog worthless for running in a pack—The use of a dog in a pack—The use of a dog in a hunting pack—Shooting from unprofessional—Training—Starting puppies—Age for training—Length and kind of tension—Care necessary in the first few months of a puppy—How to manage puppies—Advantages of broken dogs—Obedience to the trainer—The use of a dog in a pack—The use of a dog in shooting given to training—Bad effects of husting—Effs of husting of husting off from trails—What is not to be held to be necessary—Master of making of trails for beasts— CHAPTER XXVII. Guns—the vast trade in worthless guns—for general shooting—to the sportsman—a gun for every man—a gun for every woman—a gun for every boy—a gun for every girl—a gun for every dog—a gun for every cat—a gun for every horse—a gun for every dog—a gun for every cat—a gun for every horse—a gun for every dog—a gun for every cat—a gun for every horse—a gun for every dog—a gun for every cat—a gun for every horse—a gun for every dog—a gun for every cat—a gun for every horse—a gun for every dog—a gun for every cat—a gun for every horse—a gun for every dog—a gun for every cat—a gun for every horse—a gun for every dog—a gun for every cat—a gun for every horse—a gun for every dog—a gun for every cat—a gun for every horse—a gun for every dog—a gun for every cat—a gun for every horse—a gun for every dog—a gun for every cat—a gun for every horse—a gun for every dog—a gun for every cat—a gun for every horse—a gun for every dog—a gun for every cat—a gun for every horse—a gun for every dog—a gun for every cat—a gun for every horse—a gun for every dog—a gun for every cat—a gun for every horse—a gun for every dog—a gun for every cat—a gun for every horse—a gun for every dog—a gun for every cat—a gun for every horse—a gun for every dog—an A blank page with a light beige background. ILLUSTRATIONS.
Marcheson's Phe (Frontispiece), P.
Champion Elcho, Jr., - 24
Peguim, - 37
Roderigo, - 45
Champion Paul Gladstone, - 50
First Lesson in Retraining, - 138
The First Point, - 176
American Foxhound, - 315
Dog Crates, - 349
A blank page with a light pink background. INTRODUCTORY. The general improvement in expert training in this coun- try, had its inception with the inauguration of field trials. There were a few, very few, expert trainers prior to that period, but they had a limited time and their methods of training were not sufficiently well known to have any ef- fect on some particular hobby in his particular system, which he claimed to be superior to all others, although as each one was trained by himself, it was difficult to de- cide by what process one method could be com- pared with another. Considering training as an art, it had been developed by those who were experts in the subject. As many of these men were highly paid and those who professed to be experts, there were the widest differences of opinion in respect to the details of training, and the methods employed by each man varied considerably. However, really expert trainers were so few that they were not a representative body of the average trainers. The typ- ical trainer was not a professional, but rather a man who was interested in his hobby and at the same time earned as much as possible. As the prices of training in such hands varied from ten to twenty-five dollars, the education of the dog was always attended with a profit. The dog was trained until it was most profitable. The dog was never required to do much more than point and wait, with less certainty, to retrieve. The man who trained the dog was usually considered as being usually erroneously accepted as conclusive proof of his ability as a trainer. Each section had one or more of such firms which would train dogs for a fee. In the fall and winter, in summer, a little dissipated periodically, and at all times had every indication of chronic incalculable seediness. As a class, they were not worth considering. The first two were gun into dispute, the latter two being unjustly considered the cause of the evil instead of an available means to sus- (xvi) viii INTRODUCTORY. tain it. But progress and a high grade of ownershipship have sounded the death knell of the order of things, and disgustingly have been the ruiners of society. The first field trial in America was run near Memphis, Tenn., in 1794, under the auspices of the Tennessee Society's Academy of Natural Science. For four or five years thereafter, the trials grew slowly; but gradually their advantages became known and scrupulously followed at a price. The advent of field trials brought the expert trainers to the front, and the competition and ample opportunities for comparisons of methods caused great improvements in the standard of the dogs. From England was followed by the lexicon of competitions, which resulted in the permanent supremacy of the imported dog over the American-bred dog. This supremacy has given him an acknowledged meritorious reputation and greatly increased his monetary value and that of his related bloods. The desire for a dog with a certain per- sonality of a winning strain, was the strong desire of all pro- gressive sportsmen. The spirit of rivalry or emulation which compelled breeders to produce a dog that would spread demand for better dogs. This is true resulted in a large number of breeders to supply the demand. Many dogs were produced that were inferior to those that pre- cedence constantly increased. The enlargement in the dog world served to permanently engage the entire time and attention of a few men who had a special interest in this pro- fession, and as a higher grade of ability was required, the typical old-time trainer either became a market shoemaker more and more, or he retired from active competition. It required several years, however, for the expert field trial trainers to overcome the prejudices and antipathies, a legacy inherited from the past. The competition settled many controversial points in INTRODUCTORY training, made a general improvement in methods, corrected many erroneous details, and established more uniformity in systems, although, as in all systems brought to a high degree of refinement and which have variable intrinsic elements, they still leave a certain amount of room for improvement. Dog training can never be reduced to a system of arti- ruals rules. With many of the exact sciences, a theoretical knowledge is sufficient to enable one to apply the method. In train- ing there is always an unknown and variable quantity which governs the application of the training, namely, the dispo- sition of the dog. To make progress in this science, with an extensive theoretical knowledge, he must learn how to modify or extend his methods by actual experience. No science can be applied without some practical experi- mentally dependent. No two dogs have precisely the same degree of intelligence or the same habits, inclinations, dis- positions, etc., and therefore no two trainers will find that might be eminently successful in one instance might be rainous in another. While the system herein taught will save much time and trouble, yet its success depends on the manner of applying it. The ama- teur cannot expect too much pains in studying dog char- acteristics until he has learned to hold the affections of his dog, otherwise he cannot succeed. While field trials developed a higher grade of expert trainers than formerly, yet there are still many who do not break, or rather one thoroughly broken for field work, was at a disadvantage in a field trial competition. One that was obedient to the whole might be successful in a field trial, but would not give satisfactory results with signals. The aim was to get a dog to be merely obedient; to be quick in footing and pointing his nose; to think so well of his teacher that he would not hesitate lest he should whip in quickly and take the point from a competitor when possible, and to XX INTRODUCTORY. range at high speed. Although they are a very uncertain test of a real man's ability to work without educational resort to instruments. However, from a training point of view, the evidence of field trials dogs is not the standard of a thorough knowledge of the uses and duties of such dogs a standard of the abilities of the trainers. This treatise is after the modern professional system of writing, and contains an exhaustive description of the uses and abuses of the spike collar. The author, by way of introduction, says that he was a professional trainer, field trial handler and reporter for a number of years, and several times actually won the national championship. He wishes to aggregate his experience and consequent opportunities to acquire knowledge from personal observation and practice have been made available to him. From this perspec- tival standpoint, therefore from what is considered the highest refinement of art, it is intended for the use of the amateur and the beginner. The principles which are frequently repudiated in their many different rela- tions, it is noise too clear for the use of the amateur; and even with the more elaborate explanation, he will find com- plication rather than simplification in its application success- fully. Many of the principles and positions herein treated are more or less opposed to the recognized authorities of a decade ago, but the reader should bear in mind that field trials go on every year and there have far outgrown the scope of our old authorities. These authorities are not always right in our beliefs and experiences. Authorities, one after another, have never refrained from the march of improvement leaving them in the rear. The perpetual struggle for supremacy makes no exceptions. MODERN TRAINING AND HANDLING. A blank page with a light pink background. MODERN TRAINING. CHAPTER I. THE SETTER AND POINTER. The setter and pointer, so far as they have a history, have always held a high place in the appreciation of mankind ; but the genius of the pointer has been more fully appreciated to which his intelligence and worth entitle him may be said to have occurred in this country within the last half century. It is within the memory of comparatively young men, particularly in the East, when to take a dog and gun afield was considered a sport, and when the sportsman was a lad gentlemanly pretentious, and if the act was repeated a few times a lowering of social and financial standing ensued. Against this view stood the pointer, who, with his depraved taste, which, in some vague manner, led to whole groups of depravities, and the man whose passion for sport affected his business life. The pointer's success in hunting for social opinion was greater, had he reverted to the fields by early dawn, or unfrequented by-eaves, much after the same manner as the world has seen the process of modern daydreams. To neglect business was an unpardonable sin, life being an 21 **BONES TRAINING.** enough to tell more wealth, which was considered the object of life, not to make life nobler and more enjoyable. The renewed vigour of body and mind; the broader humanity; the training of eye and nerve; the beauties of nature, were all consequences of the new system. The old system had been swept away by general progress and enlightenment, and they only exist as shadows of the past. It will be seen that the most valuable animals should have been neglected so long; stranger still that hav- ing such a wide and even distribution they should be so despised. This is owing to the fact that the instinct was commonly ascribed to the impulses of instinct, and reason was not considered for a moment as being first or last, a point which has been very much overlooked in many common material problems of life could, without the slight- est hesitation, mental effort or previous study, decisively decide whether man was or was not superior to other animals; satisfactorily; occasionally a bit more of the same kind of instinct would be beneficial if it had a wider existence in the scale of things. These distinct breeds of setters are recognized in this country, namely, the English setter, the Irish setter, and the Gordon setter. The latter, as compared to his aboriginal parents, is a Gordon merely in name, he being so largely mixed with out- crosses that he is no longer a pure breed. However, it may be mentioned that many years ago the Gordon was highly prized in England for his merit. The breed was then kept in a state of perfection and it derived its name from this. Since the institution of field trials and the consequent more exacting demands of sportsmen in respect to their dogs, the Gordon has been constantly met with disfavor and progressively degenerated. Except by courtesy the miscellaneous scrub character of the BREAKING AND HANDLING. 23 breed hardly entitles it to the distinction of a true breed, if it races, communes, pure bloods, or is reproduced, true to race characteristics are any criteria by which to determine it. So much is degenerated in these properties that it is hardly worthy of consideration. All dogs are divided into two competitive classes for black and tan setters, which, nominally, are for Gordon setters, black and tan having their preceding name; but such classification is not correct. The black and tan setter is a color, admits any other breeds of setters, or cross-breed-set- ters, if they have the required color qualification; indeed, such dogs are often seen with white markings on their heads and tails. Setters at present show within this very remote period; thus the dog at first lost distinctive Gordon char- acteristics, and has become a mongrel of many different species. At present, there are only isolated specimens owned here and there. The existing course, scurvy, inferior dogs, heterogeneous in type and color, and so forth. The sette- mon, abstract proper name, or, as commonly occurs, hav- ing no known pedigree, are not imitable to the existing standard of perfection. This is the reason why the con- servation is consequent to the dog's unimportance. Bench show associations are not legislators as to the classification of the various breeds of dogs. While there is a variable ideal type, there is the greatest irregularity and diversity of undesirable individual forms, the insane, haggard-looking dogs, etc., etc. The dog who wins a black and tan setter class, classes by the way which are always numerically light, would not be considered worthy of notice in true English English classifications. The black and tan setter has been shown, within the past few seasons, as superior specimens of the breed, presumably as it existed at some time in the past, but no new specimens are brought forward to succeed them. 24 MODERN TRAINING. The typical Gordon is a healthy beast, and, whatever sym- metry of form may have been possessed by the parent stock, the inherent faultiness of a heavy type has resulted in coarse- ness and clumsiness. Some fanciers approve of the heavy type because they consider that it is more suitable to the undesirable type than to the desirable one. But, as the undesir- able type is sufficient to condemn it, it being wholly inadequate for fast, prolonged work. It is strange that, considering the great value of working, this type of horse should be cultivated and perpetuated. The public performance of the very few which have com- pleted their training, and which are now employed for com- merce by inefficient, are not such as to exalt it in the good opinion of spectators at large. There is a desirability attempt being made to improve the type by breeding with a view to call for a lighter and more easily built dog, but this con- templated improvement is largely in the abstract, there being no practical means of applying it. The same applies to performance ; yet these spasmodic, vague, gentle attempts constitute the most tangible form of existence of the Gor- don action in the eyes of the public. The lack of any signi- purity of matter naturally resulting from neglect, quality of ownership, natural inferiority, smallness of num- bers, failure to breed from the best stock, and general and disfavor of sportsmen. In field sports the Gordon set is a dim, fading landmark in the march of progress. The Gordon is not a race horse. It does not run well by any other breed in uniformity of type and other race characteristics. The individuals it has high average speed, but its type is not suited for speed. Its legs are short and many possess a wonderful degree of elegance and sym- metry of form. They are a deep, solid, blood-red in color, except in the case of some white markings on the head, which are usually present. There are occasional specimens of pure breeding which have more or less white markings; but the CARABOON ELEPHANT This is a blank page. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 27 white, as much on the head and toes, is considered undesirable, and we have seen several, considering them bred as a white. From time immemorial, it has been highly prized and guarded with care, hence it is a very pure breed, and possesses many desirable characteris- tics, the best breds judiciously avoid out-crosses on other breeds. White-breed is not well represented at the field trials, and frequently not at all, it has many staunch admirers, and a powerful conservative support. The small representation in the field trials is due to the fact that it is a con- siderable tenor; nevertheless, it demonstrates its claim to recognition as possessing workers of a high order, and a percentage of those who run were winners. It would, in all probability, be more widely represented if equal numbers of many owners of English setters, who are field trial sup- porters, being relatively overwhelming in numbers. No other breed is so widely represented in them from regular public competition, although, as aforementioned, they have an extensive, powerful ownership, and a good re- presentation in the general competitions, or if trials were inaugurated specially for it. The consequent general knowl- edge of the breed and its value is due to this. The precision is breeding a uniformly higher grade of field dogs, inasmuch as the best specimens could be selected. Subor- dinately, the number of dogs bred by the owners of one breed, may contribute largely to the ascend- ancy of other breeds in public estimation, failure to compete heavily with them being a disadvantage. This assumption might be reasonable if dogs were kept strictly for racing purposes, but the larger part of sportsmen value them for private shooting. That this sector has high working qualities is manifested 28 MODERN TRAINING. By the large number of practical sportsmen who keep them for field work. At all the important bench shows the Irish setters com- pete in large numbers. Their success of type, rich coloring, fine symmetry, and general appearance, make them the highest admiration. Champion Echo, Jr. (Echich-Norson), whose portrait is depicted on page 30, is generally recognized as a dog of ex- quisite symmetry of form, and refinement of race charac- teristics united with substantial physical development; qualities which have been well illustrated by his long re- ciprocity-eminence over his sire. He was born June 1, 1881, and owned and bred by Dr. William Jarvis of Claremont, N.J., a man of great breeding ability, who has produced choice blood; and the results, as shown by his breeding, large numbers of dogs of uniform excellence for several years past, are a tribute to his skill as a breeder. Echo, Jr. has won championship honors in nearly every city in this country in which bench shows have been held, and he is one of the most popular dogs in the country, being very complimentary notice by the sporting press. He has the reputation of being an excellent field dog. Taken all in all, he is a perfect example of the breed. The English setter, considered as a field dog, is the superior of all others as shown by the records of public competitions. The English setter is also recognized as the author of opinion among fanciers. The enormous numbers of the breed and common distribution are prime factors in main- taining consistency, aside from questions relating to em- pire superiority. From its wide distribution, general popularity and financial value it is evident that the English setter is a dog fre- quently inexperienced, who breed wholly or partly for profit, which mitigates against uniform improvement in the breed. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 29 are common. These adverse conditions are more fully de- scribed in the chapter on "Diseases." However, the more eminent and skillful breeders produce dogs of rare excellence, dogs which have no superior. By the same token, the less skillful and less experienced breeder, bred, as a whole, is maintained at a high standard, the worthless strain, unfortunately, profiting by it; for if the course of breeding is continued long enough, the inferior dog will near or remain, to eminate individuals, they never fail to claim the merit of reflected lustre. Taking into consideration that we now give consideration, they undoubtedly are marvels of combined beauty of form and working capability. Dashing, agile, fast and enduring, quick and sure in execution, they are the racers of the racing field. By referring to the portraits, the exquisite symmetry and characteristics of the breed will be noted. The artist has carefully studied every feature of these dogs with ad- mirable fidelity, and the portrait is truthful. Machinings Peggs, whose portrait is given in the tintis- pices, is a fine specimen of this breed. He was born at Fild, Chicago. She is handsome marked black, white, and tan, and is by Dr. (Prince) Derrida out of Peg (Leucis) Peggs. She is a fine specimen of this breed, and stands with the high class bitches of America. In the trials of the American National Kennel Club, run at Pekinah, she placed first in her class. Her son by Dr. (Prince) Derrida, whose portrait is also given, is a son of Marching Peggs by Cambridge, he by Gladiators out of Glade. He is magnifi- cently built and well proportioned. His head is large neck; well shaped body; nicely shaped legs and feet; and fine general symmetry. He is a high class dog in the field. This breeding has produced some remarkably superior dogs notably Juan Val Jao, winner of the champion stakes 30 MODERN TRAINING. at the Eastern Field Trials Club's Trials, 1888. He also was bred by Dr. Rowe, and by Mr. Mingo out of Twin Mand, she by Gladstone out of Chip ; Mangy is Druml out of Sat., Son from the same sire, and from the same dam, and is a son of the famous Champion F. J. Jim, Fugly, Feggy, Fegy, H. Ii, and Pegmatte, the lines of blood being the same through Marchamons Peg and Mingo on the one side, and Twin Mand and Cambridge on the other. Champion Paul Gladstone is owned by Mr. L. L. Boggs of Pembroke, Mass., and is a son of Champion F. J. Jim, to whom he is a dog of great symmetry and beauty. He has an enviable reputation, and has taken several special prizes for the best horse in his class at the National Field Trial. He has also a long list of champion bench show winnings, and is noted as an excellent sire, and a dog of brilliant field merit. Rodriguez, owned by the Memphis and Avant Kennels, is by Count Noble-Twin Mand, and is well known to the spectators as a fine animal. He is a son of Champion F. J. Jim, and has proved working powers, beauty and power of physical structure, and a successful stock-getter. He is a field trial winner, and has been used with much satisfaction of opponents as a performer of the highest capabilities. Enough illustrations are given to show the higher types of the English saddle horse than can be done in words. The prevailing color of the English setter is black and white, or black and white ticked; but there are many shades between these extremes. The most common color is black and white ticked; this is called blue before; orange and white ticked, orange before; lemon and white ticked, lemon before; chestnut and white ticked, chestnut before; brown and white ticked, brown before; white, roan; and these colors may be in different shades. The pointer has been greatly improved within the past few years, field competition, energetic working and better BREAKING AND HANDLING. 31 breeding with respect to field form, being the prime concern of his advancement. The work of setters when on game, was always an insurmountable obstacle to the average pointer in competition with them; but the possibility of breaking them by selection, and doubtless in time, if bred by selecting the best working dogs, they will be able to compete on an equal footing with the setters. This is a point which has been overlooked by pointers, which is a wise measure until such times as the pointers are bred in sufficient numbers to place them on an approximate equality. However, decided improvement seems to be confined to individuals here and there and not to the breed as a whole. Taking into consideration the fact that the "working" or "in-game" state of overwork, that is, become indifferent to hunting, and slow and pottering in his manner, and the long remaining in the field after the game has been shot and range usually always exhibited after the third or fourth year, it is an open question whether the nature of the dog can be changed by careful selection even against the setters in working properly. Having thus briefly considered the dog in particular, we will now consider him in general. The origin of the setter has greatly exercised the specula- tive faculties of many writers, and, finally, in most instances, they have been unable to settle upon any definite theory. The setting of dogs varies from country to country. There is no very good reason for this theory except that it has the least absurdity of the conjectures advanced. As to the proof of its antiquity, there is no need to refer to ancient litera- tural evidence other than the vaguest tradition and conjecture, the latter being the chief support. It would be quite as reasonable to suppose that it had arisen to prove, that the game is a variety of the setter. They both have certain analogies 3 32 MODERN TRAINING in form and habits; but, since there are analogous habits, methods, and instincts in other structures more or less common to all dogs, they prove nothing in the absence of all direct evidence. So far as this is any trace of the setter in the past, we must consider that it is at least a dog, showing itself with its peculiar race char- acteristics, and showing no more tendency to variation than varied breeds ; for, in the oldest pure breeds, no two individuals are precisely alike. Much stress has been laid on the fact that an ancient dog was found to have been a setter, which is a point which is no direct proof of accuracy, as the term has not been proven to be general or correct in its application. It is much the same with the case of the hound, which is considered by some writers to have been a hound, while others consider the setter as bred from the spaniel as a breed, which he in some respects resembles; or rier cæra, this being still more uncertain. The dog is a creature of instinctive nature, and conse- quent lack of knowledge respecting them. Even in our own times, many people are apt to think that they know what is best for their dogs, and that they can give advice upon their care and management; but even to those who possess some precision, the setter, as defined by Webster, is so fol- lowing :--"A sporting dog of the horned kind that indicates, by his voice and actions, the presence of game." This is parotale of the character of the pointer and the spaniel, and is generally regarded as having descended from the crooning dog of the ancients. The pointer and spaniel are periods in the far future shall be the ancient past, and many existing facts and facies shall weigh alike as vague hear- say; when the present shall be the past. The pointer and spaniel are great changes, and when the learned answer then is speculating on the aboriginal stock of the setter, he will be speaking of a dog determined as incalculable proof. He will tell the lesser amount of truth than was held by Webster. Unaltered, the recognized official authority of the ancients; BREAKING AND HANDLING. 33 therefore the setter will then be a hound, the product of a cross between a pointer and a spaniel hound, and the specimen would be as reasonable as any other dog that has been advanced, at present, as to the origin. If the setter is a hound, there would be some evidence that he is well known territory of all animals to revert, at times, to ancestral types ; yet it is all cases of rever- sion in pure blooded setters, is to the same setter form. It is therefore evident that the setter is kept by man, that the characteristics have become permanently fixed; and that the origin is so far in the past that the tendency to revert to ancestral forms has been lost. This can only be granted as a negative argument; if it is that far in the past, we can know nothing of the origin. A breed does not so easily change its type as a race of men. The tendency of forms would be preserved, showing a regular series, either continuous or broken, from the parent stock to the setter form. There is no intermediate form between the cre- ation of all the intermediate groups and gradations, leaving the two breeds distinct without any sub-breeds showing unaccountable variations. It is well known that by selection of the best specimens in breeding, the form of animals can be improved and changed. It is also well known that this improvement must be in accordance with the purposes of the breeder, as seen in the forms of horses for speed and draft, and in the forms of other animals for strength and endurance. But when under certain conditions is continued chiefly to the physical forms, the effects of change being imperceptible in the human race, it may happen that such changes are injurious to other domestic animals. To maintain an improved breed up to the required standard of excellence, continued selec- tion of the superior animals is necessary to breed from, else they by promiscuous breeding revert to the common forms. 34 **MODERN TRAVELS.** If the animal had time to be a curiosity, as it must have done to originate the sector (otherwise its change could have been effected), whether it was done little by little or at once, there is every probability that it would have been lost in the first generation, and that the change would have been due to the parent type, (a) from the natural tendency to revert to ancestral prototypes, and (b) from the probability that the characteristics which are most conspicuous in a species are those which will be most likely to be preserved; for if a family of setters at the present day showed a constant tendency to vary their forms, and if this tendency were not counteracted by selection, they would have become a different breed, the owner would condemn the pro- geny as being mongrel, inasmuch as it could not reproduce itself; but if the tendency were counteracted by selection, the improved species, therefore a variety of spitz, is it, and the parent stock would still have an inherent tendency to vary or these characters, so that if any one of them varied, it would be a variety which would uniformly improve and breed with all the characteristic modifications, habits and instincts up to a certain point. The same thing might happen with other forms when neglected, nor varying into other forms when reproducing itself under constantly varying conditions of climate, food, etc., but if the form is changed permanently (a) but admitting the change in form, it is hardly possible that it would be associated with changed instincts and habits; for if it were so, it would be seen that changes of form are not accompanied by any perceivable changes in instinct, much less changes uni- formly throughout. Setters and pointers have great many characteristics in common; their hunting instincts and modes of pursuing their prey are similar; but while the pointer has a close analogy in race type and habbit, the chief distinctive characteristic being the coat. If a typical setter is clipped A black and white illustration of a dog. [API_EMPTY_RESPONSE] A black and white illustration of a bird perched on a rock formation. P. 303 BREAKING AND HANDLING. evenly and clearly, there is an astonishingly close essen- tialist to a pointer, and many supposed distinctive charac- teristics are then clearly attributable to the difference in coat; however, there are some minor differences of physical structure which may be observed between the two, but these vary in intensity in them. We will consider these pecu- liarities in a general way, for no hard and fast rule can be hit hereon. The pointer is a more active animal than the setter, and many exceptions, neither breed possessing a uniform fixitude of type or characteristics that admits of positive classification. The instinct to point appears at an earlier age in the pointer than in the setter, a more intense, and more uni- formly developed, tendency to point being exhibited by the individual; hence, there is not the same labor perfecting them to work on the game as there is with the setter; how- ever, this does not mean that the pointer is less capable. In some setters, have the pointing instinct more strongly pre- sent than is necessary or desirable, since they will point on scarcely any game whatever. In the pointer, on the other hand, and are content to back in place of pointing when working with another dog. This abnormal development of the instinct is only exhibited in dogs which are properly bred. Setters as a class exhibit this tendency to point to a greater manner both with respect to the age when it appears and the intensity of it, although it is, in the greater number of instances, less marked than in pointers. Certain particular points of superiority are claimed res- pectively for each breed by its admirers; but many of them have been exaggerated and are not so much faciulic. It is claimed that the pointer, owing to the short- ness of his coat, can endure extreme heat with less distress and requires less water, and lies frequently than the setter. After an extensive experience with setters and pointers, 57 58 MODERN TRAINING. several years in succession, on the prairie chicken shooting, and on the gaudy grounds of the South, the experience com- prehending vast tracts of territory, large numbers of dogs and all kinds of weather, has shown that the average white breed dog can perform well nor do without water more notably than the other. When dogs of either breed work under similar conditions, the white piercingly outshines the other in this respect being individual, and quite as distinct between individuals of the same breed as between individuals of different breeds. A difference exists between the two breeds as they first start into work in the season. When they are not in working con- ditions, they suffer great discomfort from heat or cold and badness of air. In hot weather; but the pointer under like condition of work will get into working condition sooner and will have a slight advantage over the setter in this respect. The setter, however, is more subject to fatigue. After the setter gets thor- oughly hardened, he requires water no oftener than the pointer; nevertheless, both dogs require water at intervals. The measure of endurance of each breed may be met with in each breed; one which can run under a scorching sun with no visible distress, and another which runs with no excessive exertion. A great deal of wind and rain appear to be constitutionally incapable of becoming accu- mulated to the heat, although they may work commendably well in a day's time. An experience during one season, with one lot of dogs consisting of pointers and setters, from the peculiarities of the individual dogs, I am inclined to believe that either the setter or pointer was the more enduring, accord- ingly as he observed the superiority in one or the other; but a number of dogs from each breed show that individuals of each breed are not sufficient data for a definite conclusion. Men of large experiences usually agree on the use BREAKING AND HANDLEING. 39 main points; men of brief experiences always differ. Large numbers must have been seen under various conditions showing that the same breed may be of different quality. The infor- mation and unjudged judgment are necessary to arrive at a just conclusion. If the sportsman is absorbed in look- ing for the best, he will not see the worst. If he does not see others, he will be certain to retain his opinion unaltered, be the work what it may. It is no uncommon occurrence for a man to be so much interested in one thing that he is blind in a hot competition when it is palpably evident to disinter- ested spectators that he is not above ordinary. Simple as it seems, this is a very common error. A man who has had extensive experience to be able to estimate the relative merits of dogs without prejudice; many sportsmen neglect this point. Considering the two breeds as a class, the setter is much more dashing, quicker and enduring in his work, and sportsmanlike than the retriever. The retriever is more much more rapid. A few individual pointers, at the re- cent field trials, have shown great improvement in this respect. The setter is a more active dog than the retriever, bred at large. The pointer, however, is more easily trained and retains his training of the first season better; but he loses his interest in the sport after a time. The setter, which may be done in a few days or weeks according to the constitution or condition of the dog, he loses interest in his work after a time. The setter is a good, cautious dog, with few faults, yet he has some drawbacks. In his work then, the evils are serious. It requires weeks and some- times months before he can be depended upon with keenness up to his best form. This rapid state may be produced by starting the dog abruptly into hard work in- stead of conditioning him gradually for it, or by excessive overwork when he is in condition. Except in rare instances, A black and white illustration of a dog running through a field. # MODERN TRAINING. the posture begins to lose its dabs and range after the third or fourth year, and, as a matter of course, loses correspondingly in hunting quality. The breed, however, is under- going rapid improvement, and without doubt these objec- tions will be overcome. The improvement in the form of the improvement embraces the form; and by the establishment of more correct racing lines in the physical structure, and also in the manner of training, a greater degree of endurance and dashy capabilities will be produced. Setters, when thoroughly fatigued and worked down, cease to be useful for a considerable length of time, and they will then resume work with unabated ardor. They rarely lose their speed up or exhaustion of their stamina. This is due to the fact that the cause having a positive reducing effect on the working capacity of either setter or pointer, even if the one is exhausted. In both breeds the adverse conditions of life to which they are often subjected may have an injurious effect on their activity. A dog that has been neglected in his care, given good or ill, may affect the dog accordingly. In thick cover, heavy grass or bristles, the setter has a decided advantage over the pointer. He can lie down and serve as a protection; he can also endure cold and wet better than the pointer. Individual pointers will frequently take the lead in such situations, but this is only temporary; yet it is demanding too much of them even if they have the courage, for, from the searching and tearing suffered, they receive no reward. In thick cover, where the pointer can courage they have not the requisite capaciousness; however, in cockle-burrs, Spanish needles, legger lice, etc., the pointer, from his lightness and agility, is able to make his way through while they cause the setter constant annoyance and distress; the cockle-burs particularly. They get under his armpit, 40 BREAKING AND HANDLING. 41 trouble of his thighs, his flanks and under his feet, the pain forcing him to submit to the treatment with which he is treated. The pluckiest sellers will run regardless of them, but they chafe and gouge the skin into sores in the afflicted parts. This may be correctly by clipping the hair off, then the setter is on the point of being able to stand up on his legs. But this difficulty may be overcome by trimming the hair closely about the limbs and inside the thighs, thus keeping the setter free. Neither setter nor pointer is fitted for retrieving from water in cold weather. Both suffer seriously from the exposure. Some dogs are very intelligent, precocious, and pleasingly submissive ; such may train easily, but the special aptitude shown by some dogs for hunting is not always found in training; necessary, although they may require less of it and apply it more quickly. Those which are born with a fearful disposition are difficult to train. A pointer or retriever, uses a comprehension of orders, signals and field work, are never discovered by experts. Limited knowledge always excludes success. There are no dogs or families of dogs which inherit their training. As a matter of course, it is desirable to have a dog as well-bred as possible. The best dogs are those that are a source of constant pleasure and an ornament to a home. His value is greatly enhanced if he is a good worker, not only more useful but also more agreeable. The superiority of the sport afforded by his superior capabilities affords successful days—days of distinct reminiscences— which make life worth living. The poor dog who does not does not necessarily imply a weak one. The well bred one should not be confounded with the poorly bred. The constitution and intelligence of the setter and pointer is of paramount importance; without these the value of the 14 MODERN TRAINING. breeding is purely fortuitous, either for work or breeding. An energetic disposition is also an important factor. Many dogs have fine symmetry, strength of form and perfect con- stitution, but have not the will to work, or are consti- tutionally weak. The will to work is developed by from courage and determination, will work well when lame, fooseet and faltering, keeping work only until the hound exhausts itself, then resting and sleeping. A dog that is lately dog, apparently too fragile to run an hour without dis- tress, will run all day after with undiminished powers and intelligence. This is due to the fact that the will to work as unnecessary burly and muscular development is called, will show great endurance when they have the necessary and intelligence. The theory of the superiority of the superiority of symmetrical physical structure ; however, theory is correct as given the other qualities of intelligence, conditioning and temperament are also important factors. build dog will excel all others in endurance, but, as in the race horse, his powers must be as much in his head as in his body. Besides certain other analogies, the pointer and setter are, as a class, alike in weight, running from thirty to thirty-five pounds. They are very active and strong, but do not run though rarely, more. These weights may be considered as being the extremes. The average weights are from forty to fifty pounds. The smaller dogs are more active than in all kinds of work. They are capable of more prolonged exertion with less distress than the larger or smaller dogs. Large or small dogs are equally good for hunting if well made, a rare exception, they have not the activity, vigor and will power of the small or middle weights. It is commonly said this is due to their size being too large or too small. The writer in the field trials or in field work has not observed that such assumption is the fact. [API_EMPTY_RESPONSE] A black and white illustration of a landscape with a large tree trunk in the foreground, surrounded by grass and other vegetation. BIBLIOGRAPHIE. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 45 Analogue inefficiency in other animals tends to refer us, and these animals are generally enough, strong, and fast, suitable it, by confounding their strength with one hand with endurance on the other. As a matter of strength alone, the large, well-made dog is the best man, but for flexibility and agility he is not so well adapted as the smaller dogs. Thus a large, well-built man is superior to a small one in a personal encounter, but the statistics show that greatness of size is not always an advantage in the arena. The statistics show that in long marches, where the highest degree of endurance is required, the large men were defeated by the small ones. The same thing happens when horses are used. The small horses are more agile than horses have the greatest strength, but the racing horses are not the largest breeds. Taking the individuals of a racing stable, we find that they are not only smaller than those of medium size or smaller, the larger animals being soon disa- bled if kept for speed even if they are speedy. Large dogs, frequently used in hunting, are often defeated by small dogs tage of being annoyingly inconvenient on hunting trips where it is necessary to carry them in a wagon, one large dog being able to hold up a whole team of horses. The small dog, while usually being very active and pos- sessing great powers of endurance, also has certain disad- vantages which make him inferior to the large dog. For ex- ample they are extremely difficult to use when on point, if in cover which is all close. Ordinary edge grass will cause them to become visible to the hunter. In open country the limit of visibility is reached in the top of the grasses in the course the dog runs. It is difficult for them, owing to their light weight, to gallop through heavy sedge, weeds, briars, muddy ground, etc., and if the cover is mixed with heather, it 46 is also exceedingly painful to them. These difficulties add greatly to the labor and fatigue of the work. However, good dogs like good homes come in all shapes--there are some forms of structure which, notwithstanding, are neces- sarily inferior to others. The chest is a very important part of the dog's frame, and it is a decided disadvantage. The chest should be moderately narrow and deep, the ribs well sprung back of the shoulders so as to give room for the lungs to expand freely. A short, thick neck is very undesirable. An excessively wide loin is more undesirable than a strong, narrow one; the latter being more in keeping with the general form of the body. The loin may compensate by depth, by strong muscular development above and underneath. On the other hand a wide loin may be this, but it is not desirable. A long, thin loin is a great liability, slow gait, the correlated structure not being favorable to speed. A dog which is awkward in his work from immaturity, being slow in developing, should not be confounded with the flighty, dexterity, scarcely inferior kind which does not improve with age. The dog who has been trained to run down game during his first season, when nature may be made a fine worker. If the dog is rat-battledown or poor at any time he will not be able to do his work until he himself is able sufficiently to steady him. It may im- prove his faculties, for though as a puppy he may be dally, maturity will bring about improvement. This may be natural or artificial, in which case it is a waste of time as no attempt any training. It is much better to condemn him. Dog must have their habits, disposition, temperament, intelligence, endurance, strength and other qualities beyond their capabilities. They exhibit all kinds and degrees of char- acter and ability according to the limits of their natural sphere, there are individuals who are capable of doing what is un- able; ones which are willing to work but cannot learn BREAKING AND HANDLING. 47 formal methods; others which work till fatigued and then will quit; some have the dog trained to the shifty, or nay never; others will work diligently if permitted to have their own way; others will milk if offended or restrained, or may be made to do any task with a good deal of difficulty, or any unwillingness. All the peculiarities of temperament have to be considered in training the dog and the methods adapted to suit each individual case. The dog that is timidly afraid commonly met with are the timid, the obstinate, the rattle-headed, the vicious, the sulky, the cunning, and the one which has been ill treated. The timid dog is the most difficult to train if handled improperly, harshness or continuous restraint sometimes totally spoiling him, and always injuring his capabilities. He must be allowed to show his natural self-confidence; this self-confidence must be preserved when the dog is in training, regardless of slow progress. If the dog's confidence is lost by too much restraint or severity of temper, or inopportune punishment, may obliterate the effects of weeks. On the other hand, if handled gently, and allowed to show his natural self-confidence, he quickly makes excellent field dogs, and are handled with ease when trained. Punishment must be lightly and care- fully applied. If a dog is over-trained and over-challenged committed, when birds are being worked on, if there is any timidity with respect to them, or any gun shyness. All these faults can be cured by proper handling and training; otherwise, except the most common and most easily obeyed, are enforced in the field; although the directions as given under "Training" apply equally well to all dogs whether timid or not at the same time. If the timid dog will chase birds and rab- bits, and point, flush and run but generally so much the better; such faults are easily removed in proper time; and the advantages are great. There are many intelligent dogs 48 MODERN TRAINING, which are similar, also, to those foolish ones. The latter are most often trained by any arbitrary ruling; the training must be applied as their powers and confidence develop; to teach and develop such dogs properly requires the highest degree of skill and patience. It is not sufficient merely to correct and train them, but it must be applied with care; if properly applied, the dog can be educated to take ordinary punishment without fear. (If a dog is not well trained, he will differ greatly; a good trainer can whip a dog, enforce obe- dience and retain the dog's confidence, while a poor one has a tendency to run away at the first sign of pain, fear and in- suring and shattering a dog's ideas, affection, and hunting inclinations, at one punishment.) Timidity is often combined with such faults; this is due to the fact that the dog has been given great deal and requires the exercise of the nicest judgment. The obstinacy must be overcome, yet the dog must not be covered with blows or other forms of punishment. A dog must be established with field work. It is here apparent that to avoid possible complications the yard lessons should first be shortened and then increased gradually. The dog should not be worked for weeks; the dog may cease work, and no blundershisms or commands thereafter will have any desirable effect on him; thus, the dog should be taught to obey his master for an indefinite time. A dog of this disposition should never be taught to come heel or hold there any important length of time; this is because the dog will become tired and will become steady on heels, and general experience. There is no fault so difficult to overcome and none in which a trainer is so successful as in teaching a dog to come heel. However, a dog may begin his training with timidity, and acquire at great deal of boldness before it is completed. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 49 The obedient dog is usually very intent on having his own way, or on running away from his master. Unless he is constantly obedient and has very little respect for punishment; nevertheless, the obedience may be combined with timidity, so that the dog will not run away, but will be taken firmly in hand from the beginning; and a thorough yard breaking given. Covering the dog slightly is often beneficial, as it makes him more manageable. The master must keep him within control, that it can prevent him from run- ning away. If he is taught to retrieve by force from the start, it usually has a beneficial, uplifting effect. It mat- ters little whether the dog is taught to retrieve by himself or has any acquaintance with the obstinate dog, or vice versa - the dog very soon learns to recognise his master, and if he is taught to retrieve by himself, he will always return to him and recognise none other as his master. With a timid dog, it is necessary to gain his confidence before the training is begun. A dog which is not easily trained is an inviolable rule to enforce obedience to any orders, and every care should be taken to avoid giving any orders that could be interpreted as a command to run away. For instance, if when asked, the dog is ordered to Drop, being some distance away at the time, there may be uncer- tainty as to what was meant by "Drop." If the dog does not respond, an attempt is made to catch him, he may range safely out of reach. The attempt was an error on the part of his handler, who should have waited until he had responded to the com- mands. When there was a probability of a refusal to comply, with every advantage on the side of the dog. The trainer should never give a command which he knows would be obeyed, such as Come In; when caught, the desired obedi- ence could be thus enforced. However, if the yard dis- cipline is thoroughly established with rigid adherence to **MORALE TRAINING** prompt obedience in every detail, is a positive advantage in all that after training, and the obedience, once thoroughly implanted, is permanent. The rattle-headed dog, particularly H he has a collar, is a trial to the trainer. Devoid of intelligence he performs his work as it may happen, and never comprehends the meaning or application of his education except the simple command "Come." He is a dangerous animal because he is forgetful because his memory is poor; he makes errors because he does not have a solitary part in his work; his mugging and barking are annoying; and he will not do his duty properly unless he is happy; frequently he is a dog which means well, but as the friendship of some of the superior race is worse than their enmity, so the friendship of this dog with the trainer is generally materialized in glaring faults; he will point birds if he happens to go on them with favorable advantage of wind, and if he does not succeed, he will blame the trainer. The cholerise if he goes on them under unfavorable conditions. He preys very slowly by experience, making the same error a thousand times before he learns to avoid it. A mature dog, a dog of this kind may improve some; but having no understanding, he is always irreligious and deftient in the use of his teeth. The trainer must be careful that such traits are useful to him. The vicious dog is not common. Setters and pointers are very affectionate and mild in disposition. Once in a while the vicious dog will be met with. After he has had a lesson from the trainer, he will learn to obey commands when to fight when spoken, or while the spook-collar is used on him, or when the trainer attempts to put it on him; but later on he will again become vicious. He will bite at any one who comes near him with his teeth, and prepares for hostility as his trainer advances with the collar. This should not deter the trainer in the CHAPITRE IV. - CLAUSTROPE. A blank page with a light pink background. BREAKING AND HANDLING. best. The advance should be made slowly and steadily, catching his eye and holding it. The hands should be pro- tected with heavy gloves. Reach out the left hand slowly toward him, and if he snaps at it, do not withdraw it. It is his natural instinct to snap at anything that approaches him. Grasp the collar with the right hand, and the left hand grasps the hand, it will be gently done. By no means at- tempt to take the hand forcibly away, and show no trepida- tion whatever. If he does not snap at the hand, when it is it is grasped, it is an easy matter to put the spool collar on him. There are some dogs so vicious that it is unsafe to train them by this method. They must be trained by other means. With such, when the left hand is advanced, the right should be held in readiness to give him a blow in the ear or he can be made to bite the hand. This is done by holding the collar or make a feint of reaching quickly with the left, and quickly catch his collar with the right hand as he snaps at the left hand. In this way, if he does not snap at the hand, it is better not to attempt it, as he might catch the right hand. Any trainer having the necessary nerve can put the collar on any dog who has been trained by this method. If he not care to attempt it, he can whip the dog into submission. Give him a good, hearty whipping; if he grows when the hand is reached for, and bites it, repeat it; continue the treat- ment till his collar can be put on without resistance. A demonstration on his part. A silly dog is a very unpleasant subject to train. When- ever one attempts to train him in the exercise of their own will, they work sulfully and baully, if they work at all. This dis- position has several different degrees. Some dogs will exhibit this disposition only after being whipped; others will before sulking, while others will sulk for hours at the first disagreeable occurrence. While a dog having this hatter, is to be trained, punishment should be given in a gentle man- ner, every care should be taken to keep him as cheerful **MODERN TRAINING.** as possible. If it is necessary to correct him when he is working in the field, it is better not to resume work until his good nature is restored. By aggravating this unpleasant state, it is rendered more difficult to train him. The dog's value, hence the necessity of keeping it dormant. The cunning dog displays admirable address in his schooling, but he is apt to be too much given to the pursuit of innocence and sublimity, and pretends it was an accident, he will pretend to misunderstand an order which is not plainly expressed. He will not understand that he has done something else, or go in some other direction which is more consonant with his inclination; he well knows when he is out of place, and will not go into any other direction than with impunity. At such times, if the whistle is blown, he is oblivious to it; but the moment his trainer comes in sight, he is all attention. When the dog is trained by a man who is endowed with reason, he, in his peculiar way, is disobedient; when sent to retrieve a bird which fell out of sight he will not take it up, and will not even attempt to retrieve it. The trainer. He learns a thousand little wiles and artifices, and by success in their exercise learns to play his master with the greatest facility. He does not know how to do anything without all his acts so pure instinct, and should therefore be unconcerned of his inventive powers. A few wholesome corrections will make him obey orders with great promptitude. He knows when his tricks are discovered, and if once completely circumvented in all his wiles he is cunning enough to know that he has lost his master's interest is the most agreeable course to pursue. The dog which is difficult to train from excess of enthusiasm, or from being over-energetic, must be treated with plentifully. Enthusiasm is one of the most excellent traits. A general knowledge, at least, of the peculiarities of different dispositions is necessary, and must be duly observed in the methods of training. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 55 CHAPTER II. NOMENCLATURE. Each art or science, possessing any general importance, has a comprehensive, supplementary, special language which serves to express its peculiarities and relations of peculiarities belonging to it. Such abundance of technical terms is necessary, in treating of an art or science, to enable the mind to grasp the necessary forms of expression, and the consequent greater precision, fulness and consciousness. The same may be said of the dog and gun, are an exception to the rule, the *Académie* being loose, partly vague, inelegant, scanty and insufficient. This entails a great loss of precision and fulness of expression. In all sporting literature, the finer thoughts and shades of color being lost in diffuse expressions or tiresome repetitions, or only in a few words, they are left without the trouble of concrete portraits to portray the collateral ideas. It is strange that field sports should be the exception. Consideration of the nature of the subject will show why. The setter and pointer, and the corresponding magnitude of field sports which exists at present, the care and importance attached to them by the public, and their long standing in the past during which they were highly valued, and the monetary value and facility afforded by an established sporting press for interchange of opinion, it is astonishing that such poverty of nomenclature prevails. It would reasonably 56 96 NORMAN TRAVERS be expected that when field sports were in their beginning, the technical terms would be few and variable; it would also be expected that with their growth terms would multiply and have an established meaning. But field sports have been growing for centuries, and the same words still main- tain the same. The few terms in use are of the most primitive kind, generally being identical to the name that they bear, but often differing from it by one or more syllables, from the simplest words to the most complex. Pointing, backing, flushing, ranging, quartermaster, retriever, picking, pouncing, dragging to shot, wing or order- straining, a pointin', refuwing to back, breaking a back, drawing, blinking, palmyra, gomnusyous, footcock, body scent, run- ning a dog, and so on. These are all the terms which cover almost all the terms which theomenclature affords to ex- press the technique of field work or training. All other in- clinations towards a more elaborate nomenclature are non-existent. This insensuousness of terms is most apparent in the reports of field trials and descriptions of hunting expeditions. The same words are used over and over again at length in cumbersome terms again and again, and the few technical terms are repeated with frequency too. Hence the names of dogs are given in such long and varied vocabulary which the scope and variety of the subject require. Even the common judgment and skill of the dog in finding birds, shooting birds, and retrieving birds is expressed with experience, is described by the very crude term "bird sense," plainly a misnomer. Excepting those rare productions which have supe- rior merit from the talent of the writer, this paucity of terms undoubtedly contributes largely to the flatness and monotonous quality spoken of by many writers. The writer has a fertile imagination and a copious vocabulary, this scantiness of technical material is sure to drag him BREAKING AND HANDLING. 57 down to the best of the commonplace, his writings taking rank with a multitude of others which have been copied from him, and which contain propositions that might have possible merit if the authors had terms which would express their ideas. The dog is a creature of education, and branches of education, to which the dog is subjected in preparing him for field work, and the details of field work, are also scanty and unsatisfactory. Even the common practice of training, used to denote the proper education of the dog in respect to field work, have not the fixity of meaning which they should have. Either term, if restricted to its common meaning, is inadequate. In the one case, it is too technical, technically, there is no precise accuracy. While both are used as being synonymous by some experts in respect to ground work, in other respects they are used to designate different systems of training. These terms, training and breaking, have different shades of meaning. The dog may be broken into several parts, for instance, it may be said that a dog is trained to quarter his ground, or to range, and that he is broken from chasing, barking, and fighting. These are all separate operations under several parts of education. However, these loose terms are much better than the multitude of acts which have no name, and which are not even defined. For example, a false point to such an extent that the hunter feels no certa- nity of birds being to his points, there is an unusual pro- ficiency in breaking. A dog which has this quality is called a bird is found, and the dog which habitually false points is called a false pointer. If two dogs back each other, the tendency of one dog to go over another dog is called a dog for the act, but there is no technical term whatever to distinguish the dog which habitually causes the act; for it is commonly caused by a dog which will back while his com- panion is reading or pursuing over scent. Many common MODERN TRAINING. acts have neither terms to denote them nor the dog which performs them. For instance, the act of circling birds, heading them off and pointing them when they are running down wind; the habitual quartering or ranging entirely to the right or left; the act of following a bird, whether by hand or by the leash at the end of each cast or irregularly rang- ing before or behind the handler; the habit of coming di- rectly to the point of a shot, and so forth. These are all hinds found when out of sight of the shooter, and returning to him to give notice of the fact; the act of marking the flight of a bird, and then going back to it; the act of taking them or so near to them that by the dog's sense of smell he readily finds them; the act of flushing, whether done excessively or insufficiently; the act of taking up birds, or from jealousy, to prevent another dog from point- ing, the dog which is proficient only in a special part of parties of birds, and so forth. The dog which is proficient in other or all parties the dog which hunts intelli- gently, taking every advantage of cover, wind and ground, from which he can obtain information respecting any intelligent plan—all these have no technical dis- inctions, although they are known to all sportsmen. When a dog is trained to follow a scent which is regularly caught a scent, or begins to run it, it is commonly said that he "feathers," the term being derived from the display of furrows on his coat when he is running with a scent in his being next. This term is plainly inappropriate to express like acts of the pointer. The term "challenge" is used, by excellent writers, to denote this act, and it is more expressive, accurate and applicable than admits of comprehensive application. It appears that no one has been able to make any satisfactory classifications of sportsmen, some organized effort would be made to sup- plement and amend field nomenculture; but there appears to be no interest whatever with respect to it. BEARING AND HANDLING. In this work the term training and breaking will be used interchangeably, the name being immaterial so far as the dog's education is concerned, the work, the methods and the dog's nature remaining the same, irrespective of such. Hence, whether the work is that of governing a trained dog, whether in private field work or a public competition, thus affording a term to distinguish between educational and working supervision. 59 60 SOMEK TRAINING. CHAPTER III. THE ANATOLIAN TRAINER. The Anatolian usually has the necessary enthusiasm and pertinacity, two qualities which are essential in the best master; but, in his first attempts, he invariably displays faults which are due to want of discipline in himself. The most common fault is that of being too indulgent with the consequent much punishment and little teaching to which the dog is subjected. He does not consider that promotion of the dog's natural instincts by indulgence or not obeying commands which are not understood, is not training in any profitable sense of the term; on the contrary, it is a great waste of time and energy, and a source of the training. The trainer should not set up his own knowledge as a standard for the dog, and by which to conduct him, but should always remember that he should intelligently study the dog's capabilities and peculiarities, modifying his methods and efforts in accordance with the results obtained. The more difficult the task, the more effective to the trainer may be comprehended with extreme difficulty by the pupil, particularly if the trainer has an imperfect knowledge of the language spoken by the dog. It is important that the dog has, at least, a fair knowledge of the English language, for he multiplies orders, and frequently has different meanings for one word. If this is not done, the dog is ascribed to obstinacy or stupidity, and punishment follows. If a strong man were to give a small boy commands BREAKING AND HANDLING. 61 which he did not comprehend, and immediately thereafter punish him for disobedience. The amateur will not be re- 61 teemed for his skill, yet such course would not be less abused than the analogous one pursued by some amateurs. Other faults may be noticed in this method, which I shall refer to details. The amateur may give the lessons properly for two or three days, then miss them for two or three weeks, and so on. This is a very common fault among those who have afield training. Proper care is not observed in correcting little imperfections of detail. Faults which could be corrected by a little attention to their inception are permitted to go on and gain strength for months. They are insufficiently treated only when they injuriously affect the general train- ing. Not infrequently a novice impulsively attempts to re- duce a fault by a single lesson, but fails because he does not correct a grave fault at one attempt, whereas he should have taken days or weeks. He, in his inexperience, is pre- pared to make many mistakes, and thus loses much of the benefits accruing from a close observance of small de- tails, hence he ignores them. Strict attention, systematically performed, is necessary to secure steady progress and success in training. Desultory efforts are but a short re- move from no effort. The trainer must be pious, benevolent and considerate, must acquire a habit of watchfulness and observation. To accomplish this requires constant effort of the will at first, but after a time it becomes second nature. A man who trains the trainer, if possessed of the proper qualifications, will be able to correctly interpret every action of the dog and an- ticipate its next move. Some novices have the fault of training continually. The dog should not be made to feel that his life is one inter- minable lesson. While giving a lesson, the trainer should be painstaking and skilled, but when the lesson is ended, A black and white illustration of a dog being trained. 63 MODERN TRAINING. the training should be dropped for the time being, and the rule of kind and indulgent master assumed. Cessless effort betrays distrust or dislike; furthermore, the dog's mental faculties are not equal to long continued efforts without some reward, a failure, a true test of his capacity to the nobler animal. It is also worthy of note that a trained common street dog succeeds in shooting better than indulge in regular shooting. It may be done after a certain loose fashion, but the education of the dog invariably suffers. The thousands of birds and game which are shot by dogs who have been trained with a gun, is no criterion whatever in respect to his training capabilities. Training is a distinct art by itself of which shooting is only one branch. The ability of a dog in shooting is not necessarily experience in training. Ex- perience, to be of value, must be correctly derived and associated with the particular exercise. A good trainer, for the sufficient reason that he is so passionately fond of shooting he has no patience with obstreperous delays in his progress towards perfection in this art. He does the shooting first and the training afterward, contrary to the correct method. It requires a great deal of study, industry, natural capa- bilities and enthusiasm to make an expert trainer and handler as are required to become expert in any other art of equal importance. The time required to learn the art is dependent on the amateur's aptitude and industry. If he cannot train a dog well even after steady practice, he will never learn how to handle it properly. It is not without gain, for the knowledge will be serviceable in handling a trained dog. Good handling is a very desirable accomplishment, for it leads to a higher appreciation and better understanding of good work, the disposition of dogs, and a correct judgment of a BREAKING AND HANDLING. dog's working qualities. From the experience gained, there is greater ability to control and handle dogs, every experi- ence in any particular branch being beneficial in all branches. No man can achieve success, or even passing success, as a trainer or handler, who looks upon a dog as a senseless piece of mechanism which works as the owner desires, and therefore does not understand that the dog is the highest highest order of creation. To develop the highest capa- bilities, the dog must be treated kindly as a companion, as is the case with man. The amateur should cultivate a calm, equable exterior. If he is excitable or easily irritated, showing in voice and manner, his dog will be so influenced. If the amateur breaks shut when a bird is killed and deport himself unsteadily otherwise in shooting, he can readily see how such a man would be likely to train an unbroken. Dogs are very imitative and sympathetic. They soon catch the excitement and unsteadiness of their handlers. Broken dogs (if hunted with such) Even when no game is present, the handler can excite and unsteady his dog by simulating shots, merely by saying "Shots!" when game is present. The demurest man will be placid and the manner as deliberate when shooting birds as it was the most ordinary occurrence. The amateur should be patient, should use, when possible, in giving orders, and it is possible whenever the dog is near enough to hear such tone. It is as equally effective as any other tone. Nothing is more disgusting than a bawling, belowing de- livery of orders. He who is loud, turbulent, devoid of hold standing quietly before his dog's eyes and inter- ances, will spoil the most capable dog in existence; and if 63 **MODERN TRAINING.** thereby he adds the weakness of finding fault with his dog, guns, carriages and friends, and never finds a fault in him- self, cannot hope to be higher as a trainer than he as a companion, unless he can find a companion who is better able at training dogs than he is now proceeding elsewhere. He who can be heard in the adjacent corners when a bird is flushed, or he who goes about with a gun without being his dog's guide, shows the incapacity or inaccuracy of his work, can accept it as an unalterable fact that as a skilled trainer he has mistaken his calling or diversion, as he can not train. If the amateur fails in training a dog which possesses the proper natural qualities, and is trained by himself, he will lose his own reputation as a trainer; for dog-training, as prac- ticed at present, is an established art, and is followed as a profession year after year by all the best men. Given dog-hunters, who have no other qualifications besides the least doubt as to successful training. Any part the dog will not perform willingly can be made compulsory by the force of habit. It is impossible to train a dog which either has a bad temper, or self-control over such temper as he has, which practically is the same thing as dog-training. All trainers are men who have been taught to think that their dogs are but it is a weakness which should be suppressed as much as possible. The ideal trainer who is always patient and serene does so because he knows that his dog will not resent his control his temper; if he has not the will power to so control it, he is not the proper material for a trainer. Just so often as he has not the will power to do what he ought to do, just so often does he do wrong and obstruct progress. No matter how refractory or stupid a dog may be, nothing is greater than patience and firmness in dealing with him. Impatient or fiery, yet controllable, it is no obstacle to suc- ceeding training; indeed, the expert trainers, as a class, are BREAKING AND HANDLING. 65 not very mild tempered when crossed unnecessarily, but in the management of dogs they are patient, persistent, kind, and gentle. They have a great deal of patience, and no criterion by which to judge his temper as a trainer. He may be amiable, refined, and attentively kind in social and business life, but he is not so in the training of the dog. His enunciation and unimmediacy fluency and resources of language; on the other hand, an ill-tempered man may conduct the training with a great deal of energy and expedition; it can only be determined by actual trial. Another prime requisite is that the trainer should be fond of dogs, and that he should love them. He must give them time and opportunity to gradually and progressively learn the many things required of him. Men are intelligent beings, but they are not all equally intelligent. A greater part of them, endowed as they are with reasoning powers, a severe task and many weary hours to learn to master it, are generally unable to do so. The same applies to dogs. In their nature they are masters, a simple matter in complex fractions, therefore he should be merciful to the dog which he declares, solves problems by instinct with the disjointed instructions of all kinds. An exaggerated self-sufficiency, ignorance of methods, misconception of dog nature and impulsiveness, each and all of these are obstacles to the successful training of dogs. He should aim, by study and observation, to gain a thorough knowledge of methods. He should disdain his mind of the dog's nature, and should use every possible method for training all dogs. To supplement the common methods, he must have natural fertility of resources to cor- rect any mistakes made by himself or others. He should also recognize the fact that training is accom- plished only by persistent, uniform effort; and without effort there is no training. After a perusal of the following 66 MODERS TRAINING. champions he will perceive that it is quite as serious a fault to be all method and no method at all. He can have so much educational method as to suppress the dog's hunting capabilities. A fair degree of manual dexterity is very important, partic- ularly in applying force to perfect a retriever. The awk- ward, forceless amateur who cannot put a checkcord on a dog, or who cannot apply the proper pressure to the object within reach, or who gets the whip, checkcord and his hands mixed, every act going contrary-wise to his inten- tions, shows that he has not the necessary skill. The dog, if properly trained, is a very useful animal, but if he is profligate, thereby saving a dog much pain from his bumbling. If he cannot attain the necessary dexterity, his special work is not worth doing. It is better to have a dog which will not do anything than one which will do any- thing indifferent. A dog which does not do anything is indifferent to his master, while one which does everything is indifferent to himself. The object only should apply such force as is necessary, and should proceed with due deliberation. Excessive punishment will injure the dog's nerves and make him nervous. The dog may start in full of fire and energy, and gradually become listless, the amateur frequently ascribing it to fail- ing health, he not knowing that severe, long-continued pun- ishment would produce it. A page from a book about dog training. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 67 CHAPTER IV. GENERAL REMARKS ON TRAINING. The important subjects of ranging, pointing, backing, reading, etc., are dealt upon at length, not so much with the intention of teaching them to the dog, but rather as a mere training, in certain acts, as to describe the manner in which the dog should be developed and trained to the habit of obeying his master's commands. The powers of natural powers and their suberviency to the purposes of the gun. It usually requires a long, ample experience to attain this object, and it is only by practice that the sportsman acquires these qualities in his dogs. If the sportsman is left to his own resources, it is generally acquired by slow, easy stages of evolution. No one can deny that the dog has been evolved from the common misconceptions respecting dog nature and instincts. By searching continually for complications where none exist, he has made himself a slave to artificial systems which he has invented for himself. He has forgotten what he is taught by enforcing artificial systems which are opposed to the dog's native capabilities, the true system, which is to train him by gradual steps, and to allow him from its very simplicity, overconfidence. Notwithstanding the general distribution of the dog and that every sportsman has his own ideas on how to train his dog, it is difficult to find any two men who agree as to the manner in which they work when trained, but comparatively few know anything of the real refinements in handling or training. This is thoroughly exemplified in the con- strained manner in which the average dog works, or the per- 68 68 MODERN TRAINING petual whishing and commanding to which he is subjected whilst working. There are some simple principles in dog training which should be understood and recognised at the start, namely, that the dog must be trained by reason and not by instinct; that the qualities of the dog must be developed; that the qualities are growing and varying; if these, as the foundation, are not well laid, the necessary natural qualities and whole educational process will be imperfect. The dog must have a point well, and cannot range, nor race, nor it is plain that his useful capabilities are of but little value. The impor- tance of the first two points is so great that they are treated together, with the methods, is described in the chapters devoted to those subjects. There is no end to the art of training any more than what is embodied in diligence, skill, and fondness for the art. Some of the simplest parts and details are taught patiently at first, and then gradually increased in difficulty. The gradations till the education is completed. In the latter stages, no great pains cannot be taken to have every com- mands thoroughly learned. The dog must be made to obey whether compulsory or voluntary; any deviation from this impairs progress and proper finish to the dog's training. Dog exercise is a very important part of training. It helps in controlling the dog, for if he learns that he can evade certain orders by running away or keeping out of reach of his handler, he will become disobedient. He will also learn to things which are not desired to be learned, and finally becomes unmanageable. In conclusion, in education, the dog should be treated kindly and in good faith as a reasoning animal, which he is. If a trainer, firm in the belief that a dog cannot learn by experience, does not train him properly, he will soon learn that the dog, whether by reason or instinct, or without either, will, if opportunity offers, successfully avoid BREAKING AND HANDLING. 69 his tenets and his lessons. He will learn also that, after a very short experience with the unprepared, the aggressive purposes and can read his intentions so well that he can anticipate them by the expression of his companion's tenance alone, even if the trainer's voice is sweetly modu- lated and his tone is soothing. The primary education, as with all other animals, high or low, is the most difficult to teach; but, after the dog has learned to obey the orders given him, and to perform acts and orders, the remainder of the education is acquired with greater ease; indeed, if given judicious opportunity, he will learn to obey any order which may be given to him, alone. His character must be studied and understood, every dog, in this respect, differing from every other dog. By reason of his great intelligence and his great intel- ligence of dogs, the trainer cannot fail to observe the diversity of character which exists. Also an astonishing number of dogs have been trained who have never known which will be the one that the dog has a very correct en- tiremate of his master's disposition and habits. If the latter do not know how to train their dogs, they do not know how to wisely use study him still more closely, try to understand why he does certain intelligent acts, note his fixed habits of behavior, and then proceed to train him according to what he believes that the dog has reasoning powers, he can, without prejudice, conduct the training as if he did believe it, and he will obtain much more satisfaction to himself and comfort to the dog. In the estimation of the average novice, a dog is of no worth without any distinguishable characteristics. The dog is considered as a mere animal; but in reality every individual dog, in about the same sense that one brick of a certain lot is simi- lar to all other bricks of that lot, the natural inference then being that only one formal, arbitrary system is required in 70 MODERN TRAINING. training. Nothing could be more erroneous. The temper- ament of each dog is quite as much from that of all other dogs as one landscape differs from all others, and the trainer has quite as great a diversity of matter to work upon as the artist has of materials. The difference lies in the two elements which constitute the art, namely, the material, elementary principles for the groundwork. Both artist and trainer must have a perfection and finish in the 'lead' and 'follow' of their work, but while the artist's ability is commonly called talent, such does not compe- hend it; it is really the ability resulting from love of the art, years of study, and the result of many years of practice. Without the industry and enthusiasm, the talent is very little to the purpose. A successful trainer must be neither one of constant appeal to the why or other punishment, nor a ceaseless attention at- tension. The two must be combined in due proportion to the requirements of the case. In order to understand this importance, it should be noted that all punishment is purely correct when properly used in training. By the use of punishment, we mean that training is buried too much. The all-important point is to rush it through to a finish at the earliest possible moment. The true principle is that every step must be made from the simple to the complex. As he progresses, he will learn to condign his methods to those of his handler from observ- ing the results of his own efforts. He will then be able intelligently to subserve the purposes of the gun. By expe- rience thus given, he acquires full knowledge of all the curious and complicated details of field work and their pur- poses. Also, as a rule, the education of dogs begins while they are too young to be trained by any other means than by work enough to start in training, and even a year and he should be worked with care and judgment. A year and a half is none BREAKING AND HANDLING. 71 too old, or two years if the dog has not been ruined by bad handling, although an earlier age is desirable. The dog's age is not a matter of importance, but his mental maturity to tell him a year is old, at least. Occasionally a puppy is well developed at ten months; but very little is gained by this, and the puppy is apt to be overexcited and always possible injury. With respect to the human subject, no intelligent man would advocate placing a ten year old boy in the charge of a five year old girl, or vice versa. In the early training, neither the boy nor the puppy would have any comprehen- sion of what he was doing, and the latter, being young, whose organization would not be sufficiently matured to endure the severe mental and physical strain. In youth, the mind is more easily influenced than in later life. Thoughtless improvement as is incidental to playfulness. His physique also has all the tendencies of immaturity, clumsiness, and lack of strength. He can do nothing with less little exercise he will take. The same physiological laws which are universally recognized as applicable to the body are equally applicable to the brain, apply with like force and pre- cision to the development of man. The dog undoubtedly is capable of receiving a higher education than any other species of animal. This is due to the economy of man's servi- tude demanding that he should have a peculiarly high educa- tion. All other domestic animals are controlled largely by mechanical means; they cannot learn anything. But man's con- tance away can be controlled, when trained, by a motion of the hand. He voluntarily co-aids his master in the pursuit of his own ends. He does not need to be taught how to use tools, and comprehension of his purposes, he is faithfully reliable, and an intelligent assistant. There is an important element in successfully developing 7 MODERN TRAINING. the dog's highest capabilities that is above methods and cannot be expressed in words, but which all the differ- ent courses of nature, in their finest blending, shape, relations, concentricity, and degrees of intensity, could be so portrayed. This refinement is only possible by only one who has done the work, but so that he will have a full comprehension of its purposes and the independen- tence of all the different elements of it. The man who seeks to train his master and loves to work for him alone, whereas, when he began, he worked solely for his own pleasure. To train a man to do what he does requires a higher mental animal. When he performs an intelligent act, he should be encouraged to know that he has done well. Do not make me mistake, because that he will not always do this. He must learn on the watch to learn what acts are correct and pleasing, and worthy of appreciation. He will learn by observation his master's words and actions, and by imitation. He will learn when he works and resting when he rests. There is a mutual bond of sympathy and understanding, a subtle com- prehension of each other's feelings and desires. In the temper, when perfectly trained, without any commands and the master comprehends every action and idea of the dog. This higher mental animal is not a mere machine, yet that there is time in life of a properly trained dog when he will intelligently and accurately work without any superior's command. He will understand how to inter- pose his own actions or expression of manner; when he is happy only in his master's presence; when his knowledge concerning the world around him is complete. In a mutual equest, no expert, I believe, will dispute; still it must not be expected that the dog will reach all the higher capabilities until he has been lettered mentally and has had skillful training and ample experience. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 73 Many erroneous ideas prevail among novices in respect to the theory of training. It is commonly supposed that the setter is trained by being pointed at his master's hand, even to pointing birds; hence, that stringent restraints and continual efforts are necessary to subjuncte them. No more ridiculous notion could be imagined than this. The dog himself is trained, and learns methods much more accurately and effectively when left to their own experience and judgment. There is no necessity for the master to point him, or to subserve the purposes of the gun, and the process of reducing them to this state constitutes training. If the dog can point without any instruction, he must make the best of such material as there is. Any natural deficiency is just so much gone from the dog's capabilities For instance, a dog may be taught to point with accuracy by giving a great deal of experience and training, he may be taught to stop on birds; but the act is then artificial and counterproductive. It is only when the dog has been hardily necessary to mention that it is as inferior, when so taught, as any work of art is inferior to that of nature. The consequence of this is that the dog should be taught in some vague manner, the dog's busting and pointing were matters of education, should not be set against the fact of any individual, natural imperfectness. The dog should be taught in a way which will lead him into training after far-fetched theories to prove that the pointing instinct had an educa- tional origin, particularly when the same defect was present in other dogs. A proper training is the result of honest, diligent effort and skill. Any system, presented to be a short, certain sys- tem, will fail unless it is applied with care. For weeks, by unusual methods, is either the result of a very imperfect knowledge of training, or an utter disregard of facts. Assuming the most favorable conditions, four to eight months, at least, will be required to complete the edu- cation, although, as a rule, one lesson every day of that time does not suffice. It is desirably devoted to it; overwork is as incorrect and useless as any other erroneous method. Occasionally a dog passes through a period of great inactivity. On the other hand, there are dogs which require two full seasons. However, six months can be safely esti- mated as the average for the completion of the education, as in this case the dog is well trained and ample opportunity afforded for field work. If all the training is done in the fall and winter in the south, the climate being too hot during the summer also for dogs. The training may be done in less time, the weather being cooler, the cover less dense, birds easier to find, the temperature more favorable for scent, and the dogs are more active. Taking a finished field education as a standard, the pro- gressive education, from start to finish, may be divided into three stages. The first stage is learning the acts taught by three years of age. This stage is possible only when training, during which the dog is taught and comprehends certain acts with certain experiences, but does not understand their application to new situations until they become per- sible. Second. The stage in his field work, in which he is learning to hunt, learning the applications of acts taught in just past two years of age. This stage is possible only when he has learned to hunt with three years of age. This stage varies greatly in individuals accord- ing to their intelligence, tractability, and the skill of the trainer. The third stage is teaching him how to hunt with his distinct sub-stages—the dog at first has no knowledge of what is required of him, and, as is his nature, hunts hopelessly and without purpose. After some experience and practice but restraint, he learns that by modi- fying his efforts so that they will act conjointly with the efforts of others, there is more uniform result and succees. Gradually, with experience, he progressively 14 MODERN TRAINING. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 75 Informs the application and relation of every detail that has a bearing on shooting games. However, there are some parts which he cannot explain, because they are beyond the purposes of hunting, which is creditable to his intelligence. When the bird is killed he has the same feeling observable in the dog when he catches a hare, and in the chase of a deer. Dropping to wing and shot are, to the dog, irrelevant acts. He can solve the relations of other dependent acts him- self, but he does not know how to do so. He does not prove, nor never learns it or observes it except as an act of arbitrary education. Third. The dog, after comprehending the meaning of the act, will not always perform it with finesse. He conducts all his work skillfully, with a view to shaping every part to the advantage of the gun; he con- tinues to do this until he is satisfied that he has done well. This plays intelligent management, scheme and acts that his trainer never taught him and of which he never thought himself capable. Fourth. The dog comprehends the meaning of comprehension of details, he is on the alert to observe that the shooter is attentively performing his part, as may be observed by the manner in which he looks at the ground, and looks out of the corner of his eyes to see if he master knows the situation; or when he abandons his point, when concentrating on another object, or when he makes any lifegent efforts to attract attention, that he has found birds. These stages of transition, while being distinct, are insepar- ably connected together, and are only perceptible when thoroughly established. The training is not properly completed when the dog has mastered all these points. It is also necessary that he should be trained in all details of work and education. He may apparently be trained, but it has no permanency. He should be kept steadily at work till the discipline becomes habitual, and all the details permanently implanted in his memory; otherwise 76 MODERN TRAINING. after a few of a week or when the next season arrives, he may forget or disregard his training entirely; thus it is perceived that a dog may have the appearance of being per- manently trained when in reality he is not. In relation to making the dog understand, it is evident that there is no special importance that however absolute a dog may be or however difficult to instruct into any particular method, by the same means that are used with man, can be applied to him. The dog is a simple animal, and has no idea of what is called "intellect" or "reasoning." He is a creature of habitu- al and habitual that is second nature. Discipline, in the sense here used, signifies the regular and formal drilling which is necessary to make a man do what he ought to do, and not in the sense which implies punishment exclusively. Invariably one or more branches will be readily learned, while others, perhaps, will require much time and great length without any apparent progress; or the dog may be able to comprehend it imperfectly or may have faulty execution. Unfortunately, the dog's mind is so simple that the most individual, is an extremely rare occurrence. Even when a dog is trained in all other branches, there is usually one branch which he does not learn well. This is called his weak instance, the dog may not back well, or may be faulty in retrieving, or may have some cranky notion, etc. The necessary correction must be made in this branch only, and as the dog backward in, is self-evident. The amateur, however, when the dog learns to point, is predisposed to give him attention on this branch alone. In the training, the dominant traits of character of the dog should be noted and used to advantage, if they are ad- vantageous, or suppressed if they are disadvantageous. For ex- ample, a dog who likes to run can be evenly conducted. The necessary functional powers are importantly present in such a case. On the contrary, a dog who likes to lie down is not a part of the education being equally progressive, one with the other. From natural aptitude and liking, the dog will BREAKING AND HANDLING. have some special feature in his work that is superior to all other breeds. The entire cultivation of a special part under the dog's eye is accompanied by training him, from his preference and constantly drilling him in all branches, the weaker ones especially, the endeavor should be made to make him a perfect animal in every respect. Due consideration, however, must be given to peculiarities of disposition and manner, the trainer adapting his methods to suit the individual case. A dog which cannot conform to an arbitrary standard. If a dog is allowed to indulge his special liking or fancy without any restraint, he is spe- cially liable to become a bad example to others. This is particularly true with dogs which are "covey dogs," which range wide and fast in search of covies, but work on scattered birds with great difficulty. Such dogs are apt to break away from such work even when they have been trained to do so. Others are only suc- cessful on scattered birds or in retrieving, etc. In conclusion, it may be said that no matter of any improve- ment will be very discouraging. Notwithstanding the difi- culty efforts of the trainer, long intervals may elapse before any progress has been made in the improvement of a breed. This backwardness may occur in any part or parts, or the dog may apparently be advancing when a relapse occurs, thereby indicating that the dog has not yet reached the point at which it met with which has a special proficiency for doing everything right. The attention and effort required to correct such disorders are often greater than those required to prevent them. Cause, he may develop weaknesses in parts of his work which will impede progress in all or in; or objectionable habits may be formed which may entirely obstruct training, or interfere with the proper use of the dog. In many cases, which the author had with a dog of eccentric character will serve purposes of illustration. He was given to an inex- haustible display of cranky motions, and no sooner was one 18 MODERN TRAINING. corrected than, a wholly new and unexpected, was sure to appear. The last one was final. He learned that, during the dry season, there were numbers of mice in the ditches, which are run in parallels and intersect each other at right angles. This was the case with the ditches of Louisiana, thus cutting the plantations into squares, varying in size from an acre to several acres on different plantations. The mice were so numerous that they required the requirements of drainage. So thoroughly infat- uated did he become in searching the ditches and digging for mice that he would not allow any one else to do it. If removed from one ditch, he immediately went to the next one. If pursued for hunting mice, he refused to hunt at all, and said that it was a waste of time and was worthless for hunting. All this goes to show that training dogs is not uniformly successful; for the methods never so perfect as those of the present writer. It is true that writings of many recognized authorities. It is beneficial to know that there are discouragements and failures to be met with, such as the dog who is too young, or too old, or whose inferiority or obstinate dog that are unutterably wearisome, and with such the best efforts may result in fail- ure. No matter how well trained a dog may be, his natural suf- kiness, laziness, imperfections in nose, stamina, speed, hunting instinct, or physical infirmities. If a dog is worthless, it is worthless; but if a dog is worth- less, the merit of his ownership, arid naught against the fact of his individual worthlessness. The pedagogue, while it touches upon the subject of training, does not leave the ques- tion of individual merit with the individual. The importance of gradual progression has already been touched upon by many writers. It is a most important lesson. It is of transcendent importance to make the be- ginning of any new branch as simple as possible. One BREAKING AND HANDLING. 79 thing at a time, distinct and separate from all others, should be taught till the dog understands and remembers it; he will thus be saved much perplexity and confusion, constant ad- vances will be made, and the trainer will save his temper. It is well to remember that the dog is a living being, and the best in the end. Any forgiveness should be treated kindly, a lapse of memory being excusable. Repe- tition is necessary, but too much repetition is a fault. Pun- ishment is ineffective and injurious. In powers of memory, all dogs, except in rare instances, excel; but in the excep- tionally intelligent dog, the memory may be defective. The necessity. It can be determined by the dog's apparent willingness to obey, but inability to do so from confusion of ideas. A dog may be taught to obey one command, which may perform another entirely different act which he has been taught; his hesitancy and doubtful air at times under these circumstances is often mistaken for a want of correctness. This confusion of ideas may be caused in dogs of good memory, by attempting to teach, hastily and imperfectly, things during the same lesson--paradoxily a mislaid method! While a small part of the dog's education is necessarily compulsory, the punishment required is much less than is commonly supposed. The dog must be taught to obey as little as possible. All beginners trust too much to force, regardless of the temperament of the dog. Generally the method of training consists in beating with a whip, whip, although it can never be entirely dispensed with; but it can be reduced in its application to a minimum. The following statement is based on pertinent facts that, in giving the lessons, the dog's attention can be held too long; that he can become mentally and physically weary; that he can be overworked; that he can become dis- gusted with treatment or acquire a decidedly obstre- o So MODERN TRAINING. too dislike to his handler that he can be overfed or underfed; that his health and spirits are not always the same, and that he is not always bright and attentive. It should be remem- bered as being one of the most important points in the worthiness of a dog, that unless a dog loves his handler he never performs at his best. For the master that love, a trained dog properly handled, is the best thing that can be in a man's possession. If his fatigue and hunting has ceased being pleasingable to himself, he will renew his exercises for his master's pleasure, and if his master does not give him faults to be corrected, will run away or show appreciative or disinterested feelings with respect to his handler, there is something radically wrong with the training. The best training is that which suits the peculiarities and capabilities of his dog. should know precisely how to adjust his methods to be in harmony with them; but if his dogs all turn or ignore him, there is error in the training. To simply give a dog a lesson and then see him no more till the next lesson, is not only unscientific, but it has got into the associations of his handlers, and has come causing painful apprehension. Only by making a companion of him can he become truly affectionate and de- pends on being happy in the presence of his master. This is what every dog wants. Every dog has a certain individuality in his methods, differing from those of every other dog, and some dogs are two dogs being alike in either intelligence, habits or form. The amateur often attempts to shape the peculiarities of the dog to suit his own ideas. Do not imagine, because a certain dog carries a high nose and is a brilliant performer, that all dogs must perform in this way. There are many ways of doing things, and it is better to make the best of the dog's capabilities such as they are. If he carries his head low and roams his BREAKING AND HANDLING. 84 birds naturally, it is better to encourage proficiency in what he can do than to fail in what he cannot. For this reason any artificer, apprentice, or the mechanic possessed with much favor by some authors, is wholly worthless. This should not be confounded with appliances which are used to make a man more useful in his work, such as the checkboard, spike collar, etc. To attempt to make a dog into something other than he is naturally is to enslave him. It will be observed that, directly and indirectly, much importance has been attached to the dog's rational powers. In the first place, the dog is made to understand due allowance for the inferiority in grade, as the degrees and differences of variation in the minds of men, barring certain exceptions, are not so great as those between the animal whereby friendship is valued according to its finan- cial or social profit, or as an aid to ambition. As regards the dog's intellectual importance in teaching particulars. The trainer, to be successful, must have a knowledge of them first or last, if he can do so. However, as in every other art requiring tact and address, there will be men who will excel all others. 82 MODERN TRAINING. CHAPTER V. INSTRUMENTS USED IN TRAINING—THEIR USES. The spike collar has been the subject of the most en- tangled questions, and the most contradictory opinions; but it has been claimed that it is applicable and efficient in every branch of a dog's education, and the most extravagant pretensions and perfections of results have been ascribed to its use. Much can be said for and against it, not from any iner- nal virtues or defects inherent in the instrument itself, but skillfully or otherwise. Unquestionably, men of uncontrol- lable temper and vicious propensities inflict terrible torture, and sometimes death, upon their dogs by the use of this collar; only a means to their brutality; in its absence, the whip or boot would more than probably take its place. For such men, the spike collar is a necessary instrument of training, and the men are wholly unfit for trainers. Even in the hands of a novice whose temper and intentions are not haughty or cruel, they are apt to be misused, and from imperfect knowledge of methods and due natural awkward manipulation, and from failure to note the painful effects of the instrument on the animal, it is often abandoned and the most disgraceful barbarity exhibited from loss of temper. Such is not dog training in any sense of the word. The spike collar cannot be used until it cannot be ascribed to the properties of the collar. When used merely to gratify such temper, it ceases to be an in- A black-and-white illustration of a dog wearing a spiked collar. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 83 sternness of education; and ill-nourished punishment should not be combined with training. The distinction is very positive; the two are distinct, and must be kept distinct to each other. Barbarity, which justly excites the most intense indignation, is considered, by uninformed spectators, as a necessary part of the business of breaking a dog; but it is unfortunately seen as applied in a disgraceful manner, naturally inferring that such manner is the approved one of using it. The use of the whip, though sometimes necessary, is an esssary violence, are not transient. The terrible punish- ment never fails to cut the dog, or make him nervously apprehensive. It is a means of terrorizing him into sub- stitution, or by injuring his neck and spine from the vio- lent shocks. Partial or complete paralysis may be produced by this mode of treatment; but it is only in dogs where dogs have been killed outright. Contrary to the general exposition of its advantages by its advocates, the spike collar is a cruel instrument. It does not give any less demonstration in its use than in the use of the whip, but it will have similar causing effects in time. Dogs which are trained to work under the collar are made to suffer posi- tively disabling effects, but they gradually become more and more lisless and less vigorous; and this broken down state continues until they are killed. This is shown by observing the falling off in working capabilities afeid, im- putes it to the effects of work or dead stimulating; he who has ever worn a collar on his neck knows how much it affects his motion; it is a collar, if he uses it. Many dogs have been completely ruined by it, but such effects were the natural conse- quences of ignorance of its proper use, and the injurious effect. As between those who claim every advantage for it and those who claim every ill, its true place will be found to be intermediate. As a matter of fact, the spike collar should 84 MODERN TRAINING. have but a limited place in a dog's education, namely, to make certain other branches, to break had cases of unsteadiness and to force a dog to come in promptly to order. It may be used transiently for other purposes, but such are merely temporary expedients, and are not to be recommended. It has no equal in thoroughness and effectiveness. A force collar should be used with spurs in it or not at all. The dog, when properly trained, will not need the collar. It is necessary to apply to a plain collar so shocks the dog's whole system that positive injury is inflicted. The general effect of the collar on man can take a spike collar and apply it to training purposes without prior experience. No man can use it properly in the beginning. The dog must be taught to submit to its application. Experience always suffices for it aside from educational considerations. It would be reasonable to assume that a novice could learn how to use the collar properly at his first attempt as that could be used the collar properly. It is recognized by experts as a very effective and useful instrument in training dogs, but it is not without danger. When applied properly the advantages are great; the dog is more thoroughly obedient, the orders obeyed with greater precision, and the animal is less likely to become vicious. Likewise affects all other branches; the effect of training is more permanent, and the general education is more uniform and perfect. The dog is less likely to become vicious. There is no occasion to use sufficient force to shock the dog's system, and with them there is no need of inflicting permanent injury. The collar should be used only after careful deliberation and proceeded in the training with the greatest deliberation. It requires manual dexterity to manipulate the collar properly, which means that it should be made of material that fits on the collar, should be the proper length for the purpose used, and the trainer should endeavor to avoid getting BREAKING AND HANDLING. 85 awkwardly entangled in it. If he cannot apply the collar without becoming impotent and angry, it is better to abandon the dog to his own devices, and let him have a violent man out of place as a trainer with him. In forcing a dog to retire, it is better to apply the collar just before the moment of departure, rather than a little after, with the greatest deliberation. The first advances may appear slow but they will be sure, and in the end will be successful. If the dog is stubborn, and does not comply, it does not acquire a dislike of his handler and is not injured. When the punishment is severe, it invariably causes terror, discomposure, and fear; and this is the cause of many kinds of erratic notions. Much time is lost in demonstrating these eccentricities; in the gradual manner of developing the dog's ideas and obedience, all these are avoided. The efficiency of the collar depends much on its con- struction; and the materials which are on the market are wholly worthless or nearly so. THE SPIKE COLLAR. SECTIONAL VIEW. Herewith is given an illustration of an excellent spike collar. It is very simple in construction, yet it is very effec- tive in its action, and has several advantages over other features than any other, and is not patented. As will be seen by the diagram, it is both a spike and choke collar. It should be made of the very best quality of harness leather, A diagram showing a spike collar attached to a dog's neck. 86 MODERN TRAINING. but the latter should not be over one-eighth of an inch in thickness. The long bar should be twenty-two inches in length, and one-half and a quarter in width. The short strip, including both buckle and ring, should not exceed five feet in length, and one-half inch in width. The square; the oblong, marked B, should also be square with the corners, thus preventing the collar from rolling and throwing the head back. This square should be made of tough steel rod, three-sixteens of an inch in diameter, and in dimensions one and one-quarter by two and one-quarter inches. The oblong is to be made of wrought iron, and its length should be an oblong place of a ring is very important feature, as all those who have used a collar will readily perceive. A ring is placed on the top of the collar, which gives instant annoyance and obstruction in the training. The dis- tance from the oblong B to the spikes C should be ten inches. The spikes are to be made of one and three-quarters inch steel rod, and the distance between them should be half-way between C and the spike nearest B. The spikes are to be set at right angles to each other. A shoulder one and one-eighth inches in diameter. The spikes should be one-quarter of an inch in diameter, and the point should be long and short. A very good illustra- tion of the spike given by Mr. H. W. Hough is sub- herewith given. The spikes are screened through a narrow steel plate, one-eighth of an inch in thickness. The dra- gham is to be removed from the training without further explanation. Besides the direct use of the collar in training, it has very agreeable mental effects. If it is put into a man's neck in full work, if he has had some training with it, he will feel that he is steady and obedient. He might re- trieve to retrieve a ball or throw a collar on his neck, and retrieve it nicely with it on. By using anything of this BREAKING AND HANDLING. 87 peculiarity, a great deal of unnecessary trouble can, at times, be avoided. In forcing large, heavy, obstinate dogs to retrieve, it is much better to use both the spike collar and whip. A dog which weighs sixty or seventy pounds has so much weight that it is necessary to use both the spike collar and the whip. The trainer's shoulder or arm will be badly strained or lamed, particularly if he has three or four heavy dogs in training at one time. The manner in which the spike collar is used in train- ing the whip and collar is described in the chapter on retrieving. The size of medium weight is the best. The abominations which are heavily loaded with iron in the handle should be severely condemned. They are unnecessary and have no place in any good training school. The love nature of the dog or the purposes of an education. There are too many novices who are disposed to use the excessively heavy collars, and this is a great evil. To gain an idea of its effects, the trainer may permit some friend to give him a middling sharp cut with it, and there- fore, he will understand how it affects a dog when used by a trainer. A whip should be a light, plain and simple. A com- bined whistle, whip, slingshot and dog lead, is a means and a method of training which is far superior to all others. It will attach it to a hook on the coat, so that the dog will be preferring to carry them thus on the outside instead of in the pocket. A better way is to have a small loop attached to the collar, between the neck and chest, into which the whip can be ar- tached. A pocket should be made, six inches underneath, for the lash, which can be rolled up easily, to rest in. It should be placed under the dog's neck, so that it does not which it has when hanging loosely outside of the coat. The whip is indispensable in dog training. Not that it is a constant necessity, but that at such times as its use is 88 MODERN TRAINING. indicated, it is then necessary. The moral effect of its pres- ence is a great governing influence with hounddog trains. Timid dogs even will require a little application of it before their education is completed. By proper handling, a timid dog can become a good hunting dog, but this must be done early. When they are sufficiently advanced to correct their offences, the whip can be used lightly on them, merely the weight of the stick being sufficient to make them understand that biting and cracking it occasionally, the dog becomes familiar with the sight of it, then it can be applied with the neces- sary force. A dog which has been trained by this method will be familiar with the sight of it. There is no sure way to make a timorous dog who phobes than to associate certain painful items with the sight of it. It is well known that when a dog is first introduced to a new place he will run away and bark, but the timid dog has been whipped once so that pain is in- flicted, merely cracking the whip will be sufficient warning to dog to go back to his master's side, for such sequested offences; indeed, a mere punishment is punishing to so some dogs. In hounds, obedient dogs require much more pun- ishment; and these are dogs which require good, honest thrashings frequently repeated; in fact, with some the occa- sional use of the whip is sufficient. The reason why this is so, all the little premonitory signs that lead to the repetition of a fault, and, by experience, the dog knows equally well that he has committed one. The dog which does not have this expe- rience that he has to suffer punishment. With such dogs the punishment should always follow the fault, and with every recurrence of the same fault the punishment should increase. This in- cidence can be corrected by mixed reproach or punishment. Except with the dog which wildly and knowingly commits a fault, and then immediately corrects himself by running off, for a fault every time it is committed. It consists in de- veloping the dog's capabilities by such system as accord BREAKING AND HANDLING. 89 with his capabilities and peculiarities. Many faults can be cured without inflicting pain; in fact many, such as false posture, poor gait, and looseness, fear of the handler, etc., are intensively aggravated by it. The whipping should be administered as nearly under the skin as possible, so that the dog may feel no pain, and possible, to the end that the dog can properly comprehend and associate the punishment. Also judgment is required to administer the punishment at the right time, and withal to retain control over him. It is indiscreet to release a dog as soon as he has been whipped. Hold him till he is quieted, and then release him. If a dog has an undue desire to get away, he should not be released if there is a probability that he will bolt. The trainer, knowing this, should hold him until he is quieted. A long-cold cane can be put on him if there is danger that he will run away, and by this means he can be prevented. After the dog has been whipped, it is advisable to give any order till he resumes his work. At all times the trainer's manner should be kind, but no frivolity should be indulged. Dogs will be met with which, from self-will and the absence of any of the natural affection which nearly all dogs feel for a trainer who treats them kindly, can only be controlled by severe punishment. In general, however, dogs of such cold-blooded, self-hunting natures are very uncommon; however, the trait varies with the mild degrees to which they are treated. In the case of dogs which require the necessity of severe and regularly repeated punishments, the author will mention an instance which was in his own experience. It is still more remarkable from the fact that the dog was a pointer, he being of a breed which, when trained, is almost uniformly disposed to work in the gun. During the first two or three weeks he was given his head; he quickly learned the worst of gluttony. He gorged for an instant, but, inquisitively for subsequent training, when he flushed and chased, he manifested the utmost indifference as to the whereabouts of his food. His appetite was now a most wonderful powers of speed, wind and endurance. After he found the first bery of chickwee, his first experience be- ing, so far as I know, the only one of its kind. A momentary glimpse of him would be caught as he galloped over a swell in the prairie a mile or more away. His nose was exquisite, and his eyes were keen. His nostrils, too, his nose, would gallop to a beway, was most admirable; but the subsequent proceedings were quite the reverse. A few whipswords would cause him to stop dead in his tracks. On ordinary dog, seemed to infuse fresh vigor and determina- tion into him, he being quite willing to understand that the pleasure of the chase was worth any amount of pain for attempting to catch them. He was going from bad to worse. The brief points were abandoned as being entirely too slow and too weak. The long points were equally un- ingly ineffective. Chickwee, at that time, were very plentiful, hence opportunities for a dog to point or flush were frequent days. The dog was now a great deal larger than the tenacious chase; his large belly was nicely scattered in long grass. A very long cord line was fastened to his collar and he was led out on a long leash to the prairie. One day the first of the points he started to chase with his customary vim, but the cord held him back, and he received a punishment. After this punishment, he would give himself a vigorous shake and then run off with a great deal of ing out of water, and was then as calm and indifferent as of such a point. Briefly, he repeatedly blushed and was repulsively whipped by the trainer until he re- sion ; his hide was completely checkered with warts, and a BREAKING AND HANDLING new whip was worn out on him; but before the afternoon ended he would prove it. It might have been worse if such reverses had been unnecessary, but, seeing though it was, its effects were transient. It was necessary to keep a checkboard on him all day long, and to give him no rest until he had learned to do what he could not have been worth the trouble of training. The whipings had to be repeated each day after during the whole summer, and even then they were not always sufficient to break his habit and fear, although he never did become reliable. Even when trained, in his second season, if one fault was permitted, it was almost impossible to correct it. He was unmanageable. Whipping never cured him, and only had transient beneficial effects. A good thrashing before he went into the woods, however, always kept him in order; and if not given then, it would be forgotten shortly afterward. A dog of a colder nature never lived. He was naturally a self-banter, and only hunted to the gun as a matter of attention. His natural disposition made him a very difficult subject to train. He would often lose his aim as well as a puff of breath into vacuity. In applying punishment with the whip to faults in his work, I found that there were certain circumstances under which instances, ones which perhaps may require the fault to be un- noticed. For instance, a dog might wildly flush a bery, and then run away without taking any notice of it. If punished then, he is quite as likely to consider that the punishment was inflicted for pointing as for flushing. Sim- ple as this may seem, yet it is true. We must consider such circumstances, notwithstanding the bad effects which ensue. By disregarding such essentials, or by allowing them to be neglected, we may incur injurious punishments in inflicted, and complications pro- duced. Skilful trainers always use the whip or collar much less than amateurs. The latter are always disposed to apply excessive punishment from assuming that every MODERN TRAINING. faults shown should be visited with instant and severe pun- ishment. Careful discrimination should be observed as to errors arising from inexperience, or accident, or design. With the average dog, mild correction by the hand is often enough, but with the more difficult cases better effect than attending to cure it at one effort. It is also worthy of note that heavy whippings, long continued, will have the same effect as no treatment whatever. The most serious dis- turbance has from the spike collar. To such men as do not like to kick their dogs (the dogs who are not likely to be bought), there is but a waste of time in describing the worse than brutality of the act. Unhampered by the restrictions of law and without fear of punishment, the man can simply show their real nature, when free from restraint. The whistle is a very important instrument in handling a dog. When used properly, it is a means of great power. A plech, which whistle being easier to blow and more effective since it can be heard further than one which produces a short note. A whistle is a good thing for a dog that is low, heavy one. A whistle is all that is necessary as a whistle. The metal double barrelled affair, with tones like a snail's shell, is too expensive for the average dog to carry, sufficiently noisy, and moreover are unnecessary. A metal whistle is very objectionable as a constant use. The click of the whistle is unpleasant to the ear, and even to the taste, and it will make the mouth sore. In frosty weather, from being full of frost, it is particularly disagree- able. The noise and the weight of the metal are also un- pleasant to the teeth. The best whistles are made of wood, deer horn or cellu- loid. The latter material is light and easy to handle. All are free from the objectionable qualities of metal whistles so. Whatever kind is used, it should have a mouthpiece so shaped that it can be held easily in the mouth without the assistance of the hands. When in use, it should be tied to the coat near the collar by a strong string, about twelve inches long, thus being convenient for use. Nearly all hounds have a collar with a pocket near the collar, purposely for the whistle to be carried. One whistle is sufficient for the purposes of handling or training dogs. The second is useful only when two are used, and then only when necessary. The third, but the refinement pastures of unskillfulness, and besides it is unnecessarily troublesome. The tones of one whistle are so similar that they cannot be distinguished to give distinct signals for all the purposes for which it is used. No dog can be considered as well trained unless he is able to understand and obey commands. He must be taught to perform any act to that he is taught to obey by oral commands, but in practical work it is commonly used to give the signal Gove's, the signal to turn at the end of a line, and the signal to go back along the line ahead of his handler. It can also be used advantageously to give a signal for a dog to go steadily and slowly when working on rough ground. A dog who has been trained just loud enough to be heard, is much better than using the voice when birds are wild. The whistle is also used to give signals when a dog is required to stop at a signi- cal of the hand. If the trainer has sufficient persistence, patience and skill, he can train his dogs so that they will obey him without any verbal command other than the use of the voice; but such finish requires many working opportunities to educate the dog to such perfection, and this is rarely found in practice. Continuous whistling is unnecessary, offensive, and defeats the purposes of a whistle. It loses all meaning and associ- ations when used in season and out of season. The habit grows, and eventually the trainer whistles unconsciously BREAKING AND HANDLING. 91 MODERN TRAINING and perpetually, whether there is need of it or not. Such is inadmirably annoying to a companion, particularly if he has a well-broken dog at work. Professional handlers believe that all are not all free from this disagreeable practice, but they do not agree with the idea of training a dog to obey his master while hunting his dogs at the field trials. Hence it is evident that the whistle should only be used when necessary, and then should always be used in accordance with the signal given by the order. If the trainer should make a mistake in the signal and the dog should obey it, he is better to him concerned, as two wrongs do not make a right. The error can be corrected a few minutes later. Nearly every trainer has his own peculiar signals, there being nothing more important than to have them understood. As at field trials particularly, it has been learned by experience that it is un- desirable to have uniformity of signals, one handler, when the signal is given, may cause the dog to run away from his handler's dog. It is also very undesirable, when hunting with a companion, to have one's dog mingling its compan- ion's whimpers and barks. Many men acquire a bad habit of carrying the whistle in the mouth continually, therefore frequently acquiring the habit of blowing it whenever they wish to call their dog to blow it when required and carry it in the pocket the re- mainder of the time; otherwise it will surely be blown un- necessary and will be heard by others. When noise and voice once become a fixed habit, they are seldom cured. The checkcord has many useful places in a dog's educa- tion. It serves to keep him under control if he is sedentary on point, back, or to shoot and wing. It is of constant use in giving orders and in calling the dog. A braided checkcord in the belt, it being more flexible and less liable to knickiness. Different sizes are required for BREAKING AND HANDLING. 95 different dogs, and different purposes. For work in cover it is better to have it tamed. It is evident that a heavy, stately dog, with a long neck, is more difficult to handle than a small or timid one; the larger line is easier to hold in the hands, and less painful also. A quarter inch line is large enough for most purposes, but a half inch will suit some dogs. In breaking confirmed cases of breaking shot or chasing, a three-eighth inch line is necessary. In teaching the first lesson, however, a quarter inch line will suffice. The loss of account of less pain or injury to the hands. Long check- coris are seldom required. The shorter a checktor is considered to be, the more frequently it will be used. There is no occasion when one which over twenty feet will be re- quired, except the instances where it is desired to give a bold dog a chance to run away. When this is secured, to give him a stumbling; then it can be used to advantage. In a gen- eral field work, a long checktor becomes tangled, awkward to handle, and inefficient. Expert trainers use them only in particular cases, and then only when they are absolutely nec- essary; they are not generally used in ordinary training. The ad- vocation being given without them; however, it is always advisable to carry one so that it is available for use if needed. The length of the line varies according to the size of the dog; it can be used instantly. One which is tangled and started in but a short remove from none. Illustration of a dog being trained. Breeding 96 MODERN TRAINING. CHAPTER VI COMMANDS. All signals and oral orders, in which the dog is taught obedience, may be divided under one general head, namely, commands. The chief distinction is in the manner of delivery, and not in the mental activities which they pro- duce. They are addressed to the subject only as relates to the dog's perceptive powers. The commands, by the medium of sound, such as those delivered with the mouth, or by the motion of the body, or produced by the whirr of wings, are conveyed to the cog- nition of the dog through the sense of hearing; the signals, by the use of the hand, are conveyed to the dog through his local meanings can be conveyed through the different senses by appealing to them under circumstances which come within their power. Thus, when we say "Give me a gun," or "Give me a report of a gun," or the whirr of wings, is conveyed to the mind through the sense of hearing; the signal to drop or convey it is conveyed to the dog through his local meaning on the shoulder, which signifies that the dog is to drop, is per- ceived through the sense of feeling; yet each of these commands can be conveyed to the dog by means of a sign which is associated alike in the mind with the same ideas and the associated act of obedience. As these are all the senses which are employed in conveying commands to dogs, others are not worthy of consideration in this relation. By thus tracing these similarities of principles in conveying BREAKING AND HANDLING. 97 knowledge, and similarity of cognition in acquiring it, a more orderly and systematic theory and practice of training are established. Ordinarily, the dog is taught at various times parts of the same branch, is considered and treated by authors as being not related either in methods or ideas, and consequently the dog is trained in different ways. This is through the mediation of entirely distinct organs of sense, the principle of training in the same in all branches, raising the question whether the dog can learn to obey fixed forms of command, whether such commands are sounds or signals. It is necessary in training to associate the com- mand with the required act of obedience, it should not for a moment be considered that the dog's powers of under- standing are limited to a mere recognition of certain ideas. Such is merely the incipient form of knowing and does not differ materially from the primary forms of teaching. The first form is that which consists in teaching; the more complex forms in the adult, as asso- ciating certain ideas with certain words, certain sounds with certain objects, and so on. These forms are connected with certain other ideas, etc., which is abstract knowledge. The words of command and signals in common use are as follows: Come is the order which denotes that the dog is to come directly to the handler without delay. A beckon of the hand or a slight motion of the forefinger on the whistle is the order which has a corresponding meaning, although, in respect to the common use of the whistle, these are not equivalent. Hear or go is the order to begin hunting. If the dog is at a call, a click with the tongue, or a slight motion with the forefinger, are equivalent signals. Drool is the order which denotes that the dog is to get behind his handler and then remain until ordered out. A slight wave of the hand to the rear has the same significance. Drop, charge, down charge, denote that the dog is to lie down and remain in that position. A wave of the hand to the right or left hand and forward raises perpendicularly is the signal to drop. Beck, beck, denotes that the dog is to stand up. A click of the tongue, or a motion of the finger, has a like significance. Dead, or dead fire, denotes that a bird which was shot at is killed and lying on the ground. It is generally combined in use with the order following. Find, seek, seek dead, denote that the dog is to search for a dead bird. Fork, the order to retrieve. Some trainers use the order Bring, or bring it here, but it is not necessary to use more than one word. Steady, or careful, denotes that the dog is to shorten his pace, and pay more heed when working for dead or scattered birds. To ho is the order to stop and stand still. It is now obsolete in field training and never had any practical use at any time, except in hunting. Over, or get over, is the order to jump a fence. He!, or any other exclamation the trainer fancies, can be used to order the dog to decide from doing any useful work, such as chasing a bird or retrieving a down bird, for instance, etc. Two or three short sharp notes, or one long one short note, may be blown on the whistle to denote that the dog is to turn and take another direction. As mentioned before, this is only done when necessary. Care, however, should be taken to have a distinct note or notes for the different acts required. Some handlers teach the dog to drop to certain notes on the whistle, preferring 98 MOIERN TRAINING. BREAKING AND HANDLING. this to using the voice, but such does not find general favor, and is unnecessary. Every command should be given in a firm tone, but the greatest care should be taken to use the ordinary tone of voice, and not a harsh one. The dog should never be called by name. No other tone or demeanor will be required if the dog is broken in a proper manner. After a time the ordinary tone becomes necessary, but this should be used with great caution and some habitual or practical, hence the necessity of avoiding objectionable habits. The dog is taught to obey the slightest signals with the greatest nicety. When he is too far away to distinguish them, the whole comes into play. The awkward, ungainful step of the dog is corrected by the whole frame being stretched and the whole frame stretched should be avoided. Some trainers unconsideringly put force enough into a signal to give the dog a shock. A well-filled dog along by multi strength. A light, graceful motion is every thing, and much less laborious. The dog that can be taught to obey a slight signal to such a degree of perfection as to make it possible to perform tricks which is performed by many trick dogs, illustrates the capacity of the dog to comprehend very slight sig- nals. This is shown by the fact that no more than may be mentioned in this connection to show the uselessness of very demonstrative signals. A number of blocks, hav- ing holes in them, are placed on a figure eight, and placed in a row a few inches apart. A certain man or number is given, the letters or figures of which the dog is to pick out. The dog is made to walk around the blocks and notate the numbers correctly. The dog walks along the rows, stops, picks out the correct letter or number, one at time, and carries it to his master. This trick never fails to amuse the spectators. The eye of his master, though ap- MODERN TRAINING. premature fixed, materially assists to direct him, and at a proper juncture, the trainer moves his toes in his shoe without moving the rest of his person, and the dog, observing the signal, picks up the stick with his mouth. The word "fetch" signifying that the dog is to desist from certain acts or intentions, is not used in this country. Exclamations should be used as little as possible, as they are not so attractive to the dog as the word "fetch." A man shows an intention to jump a fence when it is not desired that he should do so, instead of bellowing "Warr! fent!" or "Get out!" The dog will then run away, and turn back, which is equally effective, if the dog is properly trained, and much more elegant. Pronounceless or meaningless orders will detract from the dog's interest, and if, unwisely, he is deceived intentionally many times, he becomes disobedient and indifferent. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 107 CHAPTER VII PREPARATORY TRAINING. Yard training consists in teaching the dog the proper acts of obedience to the respective orders, and prompt sub- mission to them. Sometimes the term house breaking is used incorrectly as having a synonymous meaning,—this being a misapprehension. House breaking is the act of the dog correct every day department and habits, when at liberty, in or about the house. In most instances, if a properly trained dog is left alone in the house during training, forms correct habits from observation and associa- tion, keeping very intelligently within his proper sphere in the house, and not going out of it without permission, or whipped for the offence, probably with no reference to his education; hence his house training is given uncon- sciously by the owner. When he has been thus taught to confine himself to his own room, he learns a multitude of details himself. So familiar to every person is the sensible department of a dog which he has learned that he will not go into any room but so gradually and finally is his education acquired, that its very commonness causes it to be unnoticed, or accepted as a matter of course. The dog who has been kept constantly on a chain or in confinement is allowed his liberty; then all things are as they should be. He goes into the parlor or dining room or parlor or kitchen with equal ease free, and naturally from his inexperience considers the house a superior kind of 193 MODERN TRAINING. finely furnished kennel. He must then have experience to learn correct conduct; and when it is considered that this is learned in a year or two, it is very credulous indeed when compared with the long period required by the formation of the nobler organisms, and when it is compared with the crude behavior of the untamed said organisms. It is true that some dogs are more easily trained than others, but this trait appears to co-exist with high orders of reason. There are a few traits peculiar to the dog under domestication which require special attention, and these are faults which should be corrected. One of the most of the common habits of affectionately placing the fore feet on the person's lap, and which is often accompanied by extreme annoyance to the latter, particularly if nearly dressed. In muddy weather, it is extremely offensive to have his paws on one's clothes. This habit should matter how many prizes a dog may have won or how royal he is pedigree. The owner should not permit his affection for his pet to lead him into any such error. This habit is easily and simply cured without any violence or injury to the dog's affection. When he places his fore feet upon the person's lap, he should be gently lifted up, speaking to him in the blandest tones and the choicest phrasing, the manner being the perfection of kindness, at the same time that he should give him a gentle pinch then. He will soon endeavor to break away, notwithstanding standing the kindness of manner; but the punishment should be so mild as not to hurt him. He will soon repent it, since thereafter call him up and repeat the lesson. Usually two or three of these simple lessons are ample—he cannot do otherwise. Occasionally, at long intervals, he may forget himself for a moment; but the slightest reminder adjusts him to instant correction. By observing this simple training the dog will BREAKING AND HANDLING. 163 be a more desirable companion, and will have more friends. Another serious fault is the persistent and irritating habit of barking at passing strangers. Sometimes, when the owner is present, the dog will show a bravado spirit and will bark at any one who approaches him, even though removed from his master's presence. From habit, the act often becomes malicious. The dog should be broken of the characteristic habit by the application of the proper form of punishment. Instances are not infrequent where the habit caused an abrupt termination to an otherwise useful career. Men are sometimes so fond of their dogs that they become a subject for his barking--dull men are unable to distinguish between the barks of a dog full of blue blood and those of a dog full of red blood. The best way to correct these faults makes neglect of them inexcusable. Yard breaking is very essential to satisfactory progress and success in training. It consists in giving the dog orders and acts, and establishing discipline separately, free from field complications, are obvious. If obedience is not taught under favorable conditions, it will never be learned under much less favorable circumstances, and with much greater trouble, frequently to the injury of the dog's health and well-being. The yard training is a most important part of this work, as it is only through this that actual field work, thus the transition from it to the other will be easily accomplished. Such training also avoids many objectionable and some times extremely troublesome incidents which may arise in the field, such as: - **Eating** (eating food while in the yard) - **Barking** (barking at strangers) - **Running** (running away from the yard) - **Hiding** (hiding in bushes or trees) - **Biting** (biting people or other animals) In yard breaking, a dog may be taught obedience to the following commands by giving their corresponding signals, namely: **Fetch**, **Find**, **Drop**, **Hold up**, **Go on**, **Come**, **Stay**, **Dead or Dead bred**, **Heel**, and numerous incidental details, as will be more particularly described hereafter. If the trainer teaches these orders thoroughly and at the same time breaks all other habits which might interfere with the success of this work, he will find that his dogs will be much better trained than those who do not follow this plan. A black and white illustration of a dog being trained. 104 MODERN TRAINING. time holds his dog's confidence and affection, he will have no difficulty in teaching her application in the field; on the other hand, if his dog is afraid of him or has learned to dislike him, he will have endless trouble and inferior work. In giving a yard lesson it should be done seriously and kindly. Any attempt to divert the lesson by a feeble or perfunctory show of skill must be gently checked. The demonstrator should be such that the dog will readily be encouraged to follow him. If the trainer is too much concerned with the dog's performance, the dog will learn to anticipate his intentions, not always to the benefit of the training. After a lesson, the dog's play may be more or less encouraging; perhaps, especially if all down is not used. It exhibits no unsubstantial memories he may leave to his own will. To play with a puppy does not injure his training in the least. The puppy is not yet able to understand any objectionable practice, however, to permit children to play with him. In playing he learns to carry sticks, old shoes, etc., which are useful in later life. He learns also undesirable cunning tricks, such as running away, hiding, etc., which by no means adds to the pleasure of training. Amateurs often think that they can teach dogs all sorts of lessons. Usually they expect that a half dozen lessons ought to accomplish almost any educational purpose, whereas, with some very simple kind of business, one makes a perceivable beginning. It often happens that a dog's willingness to do what is asked to be commanded is not acquired from the absence of any method on the part of the trainer. Mixed or various orders for the same act, or attempting to teach two or three different acts at once, or making one thing follow another thing to another before any one is half taught, will make progress slow and unsatisfactory; such course is confusing. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 105 and unskilful. One thing at a time should be the rule. The elementary details of the subject are repeatedly and thoroughly impressed on the dog's memory, and as he pro- gresses the details should be nicely graduated from the sim- plest to the most complex. The dog must be kept up to the standard by which to judge his fitness for learning the next. Too much is expected of a dog in too short a time. Con- siderable patience is required before a dog can be expected of intelligent acts to acquire; yet amateurs often expect a dog to learn an act in much less time than they could learn it themselves. The yard breaking should not be attempted until the puppy is at least eight months old; ten months old is better. He needs the freedom of puppyhood with its frolics and carnivorous habits, and this is best secured by a good physical development. It is not reasonable to expect much ability before the puppy approaches maturity. If the trainer decides that he has a good puppy, he may begin training him, he may begin when the puppy is five or six months old, and muchness as it is associated with playfulness, it does no harm. The methods of teaching obedience to the different orders are described under the following appropriate heads: a) The order come dey, put him in promptly by means of the rope attached to a collar with a rope about ten feet long attached to it upon him. Stand off a few feet and give the order come dey, pull him in simultaneously by means of the rope. Repeat until he will come in promptly on order dey. 105 MODERN TRAINING. When he comes in he should be petted and treated kindly. When he becomes fairly obedient a few lessons may be given in a securely enclosed yard, without using the collar, unless necessary. Escapes being possible, he must be taught to obey precisely what is said to him, and this is best done by giving him some lessons in the open fields if he is obedient. They should be conducted so kindly and deliberately that the dog will not feel any fear. The lessons should be accomplished only by taking ample time, avoiding excitement, violent punishment, or loud orders. Make the dog feel that his obedience is appreciated, and that he can be taught obedience to whistle or signal. Extreme violence is an obstruction to progress. Of great importance is the dog's very rare use in which it is necessary to give any special lessons to teach this order. It can be taught while giving the puppy exercise in the fields, but it is better to wait until the dog is older. The inclination of the dog is to range or run without restraint, hence the order, Go, is usually in accord with his inclinations. It is therefore advisable to make him understand that he must obey and eagerly waits for it. By associating the corresponding signal with the order, ho, after a few opportunities, compre- hends that he must obey when this word is spoken and be disposed upon. With a click of the tongue is sufficient. If two dogs are in training as a brace, either one should be taught first, and then the other. When one speaks the name of one or the other, or his name accom- panied with the proper signal to Go, he can, if he prefers, not follow another dog. This is unnecessary, as the dog's name when so used is equivalent to an order, and much easier to remember and deliver with out confusion than "Go." The dog must not be forced forced from heel with the whip, but this should be consid- ered as a last resort. While it is an easy matter to drive BREAKING AND HANDLING. 107 him from heel, it is not so easy a matter to keep him from running away, therefore it must be applied with a great deal of tact, and with much judgment. The hand is all that is safe to apply. The whip, held threateningly in the hand, will deter him from returning. If left to himself without any other means of restraint, he will run away with a sulky or surprised manner for a while, then resumes work, the condition being unsatisfactory for schooling. No orders should be given until the animal has been made to regain his ordinary manner. There is a probability that if they were given he would bolt. It is he who usually crankly attempts to escape when the head of Training to Whistle may be advantageously used. Obedience to the Order, heel, is easily taught, yet it is necessary to make the animal understand what the whole period of training is to best teach it, such as, in many instances, being an important consideration. Dogs which cannot be taught by the use of the whip can be taught by being made to touch it at times, and then again by making them afraid of it. If they do not fear it, they will not obey their fears or failings, as the case may be. It is always bet- ter to wait until the dog has learned his work with interest, and then proceed with caution. If the animal does not seem to remain at heel in obedience to an order, he im- proves on it by coming to beat voluntarily, and no efforts made to force him into obedience. In some cases the ad- stances the trainer is powerless. He can do no more than to walk patiently along until time effects a change, or some additional stimulus is given. The dog may be frightened by the dog, or the fluttering of a wounded bird, may stim- ulate him to make an effort to kill, whereas he may range, seeking for more. With such, there is no remedy save time, kindness and favorable opportunities to chase 104 MODERN TRAINING. or kill. Lazy or mad dogs, as aforementioned, can be driven from bed with the whip if it is frequently the case that they are not used to the trouble. To teach this order, the trainer leads the dog about in the yard or on the road, and when he has reached a point to which he will go at once, he calls him by name, and to one side, which he is sure to do, a sharp tap or two with the whip will drive him to the rear. At the same time, the other hand is held out towards the dog's nose, and attempts to walk closer than at herd must be promptly checked. If the dog staggers or steps back in an ordinary manner, the hand is withdrawn, and the dog is called again; but jerk him about, simply so hold him in place. The spike collar alone is recommended by a few writers as the proper instrument for training dogs, but it is far more necessary and less effective than the whip and spike collar combined. All punishment should be avoided unless it is absolutely necessary. After the dog comprehends the meaning of the order, the signal, a wave of the right or left hand downward to the ear, must be given before he is allowed to run free. In any degree of certainty, he is sufficiently prepared for field work, as in the primary lesson, there is every reason to avoid all unnecessary excitement and to give him his lessons habitually. Field training is the proper part whence it proceeds to obedience to this order. The dog is sent out to work between two posts or stakes, and if he does not obey, differing materially from the conditions of yard breaking. It is a particular trouble to teach in the field without any sort of laying down of the order. This is very important; for it has the advantage, when taught in field work, that the trainer can always tell accurately how the lessons are harmoniously carried out of the training, and can thus con- duct them intelligently. Drop—A few trainers use the spike collar exclusively BREAKING AND HANDLING. 109 In teaching the dog to drop, but it is an undesirable method, because it is even worse than its effectually and painful application. It being an inferior method, the manner of it is not worth describing. The spike collar, however, is val- uable as an auxiliary instrument, and as such is especially useful. It is not necessary to inflict severe punishment, or in- duce much punishment of any kind to teach this branch. Severity and other factors are not essential factors. The proper position for a dog at the drop is to lie down with his head nearly a straight line, and it is immaterial whether the hind feet are on one side of the body or one on each side if taught to lie straight, he will eventually learn to lie straight. He must be taught that he must not be un- derly drilled in his lessons. He should not be permitted to curl up or roll on his back, both being undesirable positions, each of which should be avoided. The painfully artificial attitudes which amateurs occa- sionally attempt to teach are extremely tiresome to the dog, and they are often injurious to him. To teach a dog to lie with his fore legs extended straight in front of him, with head and neck in a straight line and resting between the hind legs, and then to place one on each side of his own body, and resting squarely. To teach the dog to drop, procure a light riding whip, which may be used as a substitute for the spike collar, qualifies, but on account of the quickness and ease with which it can be used, being in this respect incomparably superior to the spike collar. The dog should be made to feel long enough to be tied to the kennel collar to keep him from running away. If he struggles against the kennel collar, a spike collar may be substituted until the attempts to escape are abandoned. The rope should be held in the 110 MODERN TRAINING. last hand, the whip to the right. Give him a light tap on the shoulder, and, at the same instant, give the other. Drop. Repeat the tapping and order till he lies down. If he tries to escape or is frightened, the trainer has hurried too much, or his hand is too heavy, or the whip is too long or desired. A distinct interval should be allowed between each order. When the dog lies down, the punishment should continue until he lies down again. This should be continued for a few minutes. If petted at this stage, he is very apt to rise, which is not desired. It is immaterial whether he performs the order or not; but it is important that he does it being then subordinate to teaching him the meaning of the order; yet he should not be permitted to roll on his back and lie down again. He must be taught to stand upright upon arms as soon as possible after he has been taught the meaning of the command better. If he rolls on his back, give him a few sharp taps with the whip, and if he does not get up enough to sit, he will then roll quickly back into the cor- rect position and draw his teeth under him for protection. He is afterwards taught to lie down when called, and to prevent him from doing so--the nurse serves no other pur- pose. After two or three corrections he cannot be induced to remain in any position longer than necessary. The dog will likewise make him lie straight. He persistently avoids these positions when he learns to associate pain therewith. He will then lie down when called, and will be given time to comprehend the lesson. If he is frightened or confused, there is so much time and effort wasted, if no success. Forcing the dog quickly and repeatedly to do the down and stand up bewilders him so much that he comprehends nothing. For special parts of subsequent training, it is worthy of attention, in teaching the drop, that the whip is applied to BREAKING AND HANDLING. The dog soon learns that a touch on the shoulder is an order to drop, and he will learn to obey this command when required, but he can be taught to drop at a slight touch. This method is particularly useful in teaching dropping to a small dog, as it enables him to learn to obey the order without being afraid of the hand which gives the signal. It always naturally prompts the dog to run away if he pos- sibly can do so; besides, it is more unlookable, troublesome and difficult to teach than the other methods, and has every which has easily proper detail associated with the required act of obedience. To teach a dog a fair comprehension of the order, he may be then drilled in dropping to signal, the right or left hand raised being the signal in common use. This signal should be used only when the dog is well trained. In general na- tally, as the dog becomes obedient, the order may be used less and less at last the signal alone will be sufficient. The dog should be taught to drop at any point in front of the dog, so that he can readily see the signal; and if he has been taught to drop a tap of the whip on the shoulder, it will materially assist to teach obedience quickly, each time the dog drops he should be praised well and no instant obstacle should be exacted. If, at the signal, the dog does not drop on the instant, the whip should follow immediately after the signal is given, and if the dog does not obey Such is the method of teaching any dog of any size. But if the dog is inordinate of size, the punishment may be applied more liberally, due regard always being paid to the purposes of the training. It is necessary to teach the dog to obey all orders while running and jumping, while training and hunting. Heel up—As soon as the dog is fairly obedient to the order Drop, he may be taught obedience to the order Heel 117 MODERN TRAINING. at the same season, observing the same policy in respect to deliberation that has been mentioned heretofore. The spike collar now comes usually into play with some dogs. It should be put on, with a rope about four feet long stretched at right angles to the collar, and the dog allowed to run around with it. The dog will soon learn that he can get no satisfaction from this arrangement; on the contrary, it will accomplish the purpose with less punishment than any other means. When the order "Hold up" is given, the handler should hold the left hand, which usually will be sufficient to force the average dog promptly to his feet. If he is sour and obsti- nate, apply the rope, but do not pull him down until he rises, which will very soon do, then he should be petted till his fears subside, if he has any. He may then be ordered to lie down again, and so forth. He may obey the order readily if the handler is moving away from him, and refuse if he is motionless. Obedience must be gained by repetition, and not by force. The dog should be ordered to lie down at least once every hour, or at rest. The lessons should be regularly continued till the dog obeys either order cheerfully and promptly, without the use of force. A beckon with the forefinger is the easiest and most natural signal for the command Hold up. By associating this cue with the sound of a bell, or any other noise described in teaching other signals. The dog is not suffi- ciently obedient unless he will drop instantly when the hand is dropped, and rise immediately when it is raised. If the amateur cannot enforce unobstinate obedience when he has the dog in a position where he is powerless to evade obeying one order, he will have no hope of doing so when the dog has his liberty in field work. The short rope should not be dispensed with till the dog is obedient to all orders except "Drop." This is a large yard from which he cannot escape; for when the rope is removed he may refuse to obey, and hence the precaution A diagram showing a dog being trained with a spiked collar and a rope attached at right angles. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 113 necessity to prevent the possibility of his running away. He then should be led into the open field. No promise is admissible. If he goes into a corner or seeks up to the feet of his trainer, he should be taken back immediately, and the trainer must not allow him to cut off the whip given; he should then be required to remain quiet till ordered out. If he is allowed to select his own place to stand, this is not favourable for subsequent discipline in the open field. When he is obedient in the yard he may be given lessons in the open fields, yet he must at first be kept under some restraint. A short rope, about two yards long, tied at the end of a quarter inch line, about twenty feet long, should be tied to his spike collar, the other end tied to a stake firmly driven into the ground. The dog should be walked away from his trainer. Walk away from him and if he attempts to follow, return him to his place and make him drop, giving him a cut with the whip. If he does not respond to this treatment, give him, and correct any uneasiness exhibited by him. When he is trained so that he will remain steady while the trainer walks away from him, he can be put into the open field. These lessons should be given in different places in the fields; for a dog from the family associations may be de- dicated to one particular man only, and it would be unfair to all others. Whether he will be run thereafter with a check- cord, or whether he will have all the training necessary at this time, depends on his temperament. If he evinces no disposition to run away, etc., which his trainer can determine. Once again it is certain, when the dog is put into acta, work, the talent and industry or inefficiency of the trainer in giving the preparatory lessons will not fail to show itself; any imperfection adds just as much to the trouble of training in the field and under less favorable circumstances. 174 MODERN TRAINING. Very few dogs know all these formalities, and training to perfect them in this branch; yet inasmuch as every dog differs more or less in temperament from every other dog, some parts will do for one, some for another, and an occa- sional dog may be found that has no objection to being the best judgment of his trainer; but there is one part that must be observed with all dogs, namely, regularity and de- termination. In teaching a dog to drop or shoot, caps may be exploded, or a common 22-caliber blank cartridge enclosed in a rifle or pistol, and the dog trained to shoot at it. It is better to be committed than to attempt to teach him to drop or shoot. The just same methods should be used as in teaching a dog to drop or shoot, but the object of the former is to train the gun having precisely the same significance. The other training, relating to the same thing, will enable the trainer to teach the dog to do both things. The orders Charge and Down Charge have fallen into disuse with expert sportsmen; besides, they are meaningless and confusing. Table is the order which denotes that the dog is to stop and stand still. With expert trainers, the order has fallen into disuse because it is useless. The reason why it was given is that the edge of the dog's nature rendering it superfluous. The old theory was that it served a useful purpose in teaching the dog how to stand still when shot at by a man on horseback. Amongst an unclassed class some very efficacious pow- ers were supposed to be inherent in it. Amateurs frequently use it as a means of getting their dogs to stop when they think that had never been taught in meaning; yet it had about the same beneficial effect that it had on any dog, taught or otherwise. It is a wholly useless and superfluous order, as if it is de- sired to stop the dog, it can be done more perfectly by BREAKING AND HANDLING. 115 making him drop. To perpetually and unnecessarily stop a dog when he is in the act of drawing his master to the sight of field stupidity or incapacity. The dog is properly trained, understands his work and requires no mistaken attention from his master in this matter. It is extremely painful to be aided with a head that is not well trained under such circumstances; every time his dog scents game; the more he is tempted by the scent, the more experience will the genial trainings of his master, ignore the commands of his trainer. If he does not obey, it calls him perpetually. Even if it had the benefits claimed for it, they are of no importance when compared to the results obtained by the use of proper training and handling a dog in rounding and pointing, as described under the appropriate heads. For the benefit of those who have never seen a dog trained by any of these methods of the past, the mode of teaching it will be de- scribed. It is very simple. A piece of cord about five or six feet long is passed through a collar, which is fastened on one side in one hand, close up to the collar, during the first lessons; and a whip is held in the other hand. The first part to be taught is to hold the dog still while you walk around him; another tempting morsel is placed on the floor a few feet in front of him where he can see it. He must not be permitted to go after it until you give him a command. If he shows disobedience fulfill the purpose. Hold him steady with the collar and tap him with the whip every time he sits, reas- tates himself, or tries to run away. After a little practice he will learn to struggle to reach the meat at first, but his attempt must be defeated, and he must be forced to stand still. After a few days he will learn to sit down and wait for you to come and let him spring forward and eat the meat. After he has a fair comprehension of his trainer's intent from repeated lessons, and will stand when his trainer is a few feet away from him, he may be taught to obey signals, the hand held 116 MOBILE TRAINING. forward an instant to the other (or any other signal the trainer chooses), but the signal must stand still; a wave of the same hand is a order to Go. When the dog is perfectly taught he, in conjunction with performing the act, can be made to stop instantly by signals. This will stop immediately and very promptly, and this being done, the dog will become more and more ready to obey every signal. The dog, when in the house, in the presence of his master, or in the presence of others in the house, it is necessary then to finish the Tobe in the field without any reference to direct hunting; after this it is necessary that the dog should be trained to hunt birds. No matter how steady he may be to the order when no birds are present, he generally pays no attention to it when they are present. He must be taught to take his disposition, and such dog does not require it. Several weeks must be devoted to teaching it perfectly, and this taken care of, the dog will be ready for hunting in a proper manner. If the trainer should persist in training obedience to go to the exclusion of the real purposes of a dog's life, he will have a dog that is not a good hunter; him that he has no self-reliance, but simply and slavishly looks to his handler for instructions at every turn, the worst possible result. The author, in his early attempts at training, diligently taught the Toho, because it was after the methods pre- scribed by Mr. Hare on experiments on trains. The insuffi- ciency of it in the field could not be changed; what was ascribed to it by the authors was difficult to reconcile; however, after many years' experience would bring a better understanding of the subject. It is impossible to unlearn this, with a mass of either like rubbish which has been thrown about and practiced hitherto. It is simply a method which found favor with some crude and the dog's nature misunderstood; and the method BREAKING AND HANDLING. 117 has been perpetuated theoretically, by constant repetition. In an experience at field trials covering several years and an experience in field shooting with expert trainers, the writer never heard the order "Take" used by them in a single instance. The dog is taught to back up by being made to see that backing is a trick, although it is more trouble than to teach the backing. The word, "Lead," "Sled," etc., are associated with the act of retrieving, and are described under the appropriate head. 118 MODERN TRAINING. CHAPTER VIII RETRIEVING. Different strains of pointers and setters respectively, vary greatly in their natural capabilities for retrieving; some take special delight in it, others are indifferent or dislike it; a few are so poor at it that they cannot even retrieve their retrievers during their lives. The greater number learn well by careful training, while a small percentage, either from mental or physical defects, or both, are so poor nose, or all combined, never attain more than mediocrity. Very unfortunate individuals are met with in both breeds occasionally; but as between pointers and setters, the former will learn to retrieve much more willingly and quickly, a pointer being generally considered more intelligent than a setter. However, owing to physical advantages of coat, and greater dash and powers of endurance, the setter, when trained, is often found superior to the pointer. In respect to them as a class, for these are individual pointers which are most excellent retrievers and individual setters which are most excellent setters. The pointer is determined obstinacy and self-will, are not uncommon, and during their preliminary training, when fully competent head and body, they may be found to be very likely to yield only under severe punishment; yet, when dogs of this character are once properly subjugated and comprehend the purpose and application of their lessons, they become BREAKING AND HANDLING. 119 thoroughly and permanently obedient, often making first-rate performers. The dog that found a wholly worthless, or which will not be taught. Perfect retrieving can be established only by the greatest care and fidelity in training, and particularly in the preparation of the dog. If it is to be taught to bring back properly taught, perfect it is an immensely useful accomplishment, and one much needed in shooting, and when per- formed correctly, a source of pleasure to the sportsman. Poor retrieving may be the best sport; indeed, if the re- triever has acquired various habits such as mutilating birds, running them down with his teeth, or even killing them, notwithstanding its indispensable value in successful field work, it at times the first or perhaps alone in part of the game. This is due to the fact that dogs are trained in relation to other parts of field work which are more or less associated with each other. Thus, of course, has no reference to such dog's natural instincts, but rather to those of man. In shooting, seldom find favor in this country, sportmen pre- ferring that a dog be both a finding dog and a retriever. The breeder must select carefully those dogs who have suc- cesses and attainures in experience. One of the most annoying faults is when a puppy, from taking great interest in cap- turing birds, becomes so excited that he cannot resist the over-eggersy and a consequent disposition to break shot when a bird is killed; the necessary efforts to steady him may be made by holding him on his feet until he is calmed; and notwithstanding and persistently persisting in search for a real or imaginary dead bird whenever the gun is fired; so that captive birds are never allowed to escape. It is also true if led quite a distance away so that they may resume hunt- ing for live birds, they will immediately return to complete the search to their satisfaction. This offensive habit is commonly associated with retrieving in the early stages of 120 MODERN TRAINING. field work. It is particularly undesirable when practical men scattered about, who, on being ordered on, the dog is wholly intent on finding the dead bird, and in his rapid, short casts to and fro never fails to headlessly flush all the remaining birds. The dog should be trained to find the dead bird first, learn, from his own observation, whether a bird is killed or not, and will therefore, with proper handling, work correctly according to the instructions given him. In this way he learns how no improvement from his own knowledge, the gun may be fired in likely places for birds, but when no birds are present, he should be told that they are not there, neither attempting to restrain nor encourage him. Repeat the deception as many times as is necessary, and generally he will at last learn that the gun is fired only when a bird is killed and when not. If he should be an exceptional case and persist in the habit regardless of this treatment, the whip must be used with great caution and severity. This is cautious, and is rarely necessary at all. The handler should trust more to regular work and moderate restraint than to punishment. If the puppy breaks shut to retrieve, the greatest caution must be observed in steadying him; his disposition and the effects of his training must be carefully considered before any kind of treatment modified to harmonize with his peculiarities. Otherwise, the attempts to steady him may impair his re- trieving power. If he does not respond to these means, one may construe the punishment as relating to these acts instead of any part of them. A dog which has been trained to find a bird, or a blinder. This may be guarded against by conducting the training slowly, making the dog a steady retriever, and giving him plenty of practice in finding birds. An aged dog, in some instances, from insufficient experience, dull powers of observation or bad handling, will have no BREAKING AND HANDLING. 121 comprehension of retrieving aside from the simple act of carrying the bird to his handler, which is but one detail worthy of mention. A first-class retriever must be intelligent so that he may have the capability of acquiring a full knowledge of all the details of his work, and must also possess a natural fondness for it; he must be steady to shoot, must seek diligently for a dead bird when ordered to do so; must be able to follow a scent with the utmost accuracy verbal or by a motion of the hand or gun; he must have a keen nose and a tender mouth, and must work for his master with the utmost devotion and fidelity possessed by no dog. If the retriever is accomplished in addition to the foregoing, he understands his work so well that he will not only retrieve, but will also retrieve He, whenever possible to do so, will mark the flight of a wounded bird, or the place where it fell, with wonderful precision. The retriever who has not this slight inclination for slightest irregularity of flight, at times so slight as to be imperceptible to the shooter, is intently watched and noted with perfect accuracy; if the bird falls on the ground, the fall is noted, and by the aid of a keen nose, soon finds it, and retrieves cheerfully, quickly and tenderly, without any supervision. This degree of intelligence is not acquired by long years of experi- ence and has not been hampered by bad training. With dogs of a class, retrieving is usually the most diffi- cult part of their work. They are often taught to re- ceiv e very well by devoting the proper attention to the yard lessons, but, from a passion for shooting, may neglect to give due attention to retrieving. A dog who has been taught with the nicety it should be and is capable of receiving. If the amazour should unfortunately have an obstinate 122 MODERN TRAINING. subjects for his first attempts, he should not be discouraged, for perseverance and patience will generate the most difficult ones. After one has been taught, subsequent attempts will be easier. Intelligent dogs usually learn quickly, but the first attempt at training may be very difficult and must be considered a standard for all. It requires an extensive ex- perience to thoroughly understand dogs in general. Still, the trainer must know how to train them, and how to use himself in training, so that he can avoid the mistakes which he is training and avoiding his own failures with suc- cess. A man who is not a dog trainer cannot apply his efforts with suc- cess. The trainer must have a thorough knowledge of the dog's nature, and of the various methods of training. The untrained trainer knows precisely what course to pursue with a dog of any disposition; the inexperienced amateur must make his advance by trial and error. The dog is a very intelligent ani- mal, in training which a calm exterior is more necessary than in teaching retrieving; and if the trainer cannot proceed with determination, he will fail in his attempts. The dog is a noble and only very imperfect success can be attained. A dog soon learns to interpret any insipiduous expressions of humane kindness, and when he sees that he is not treated with liberty, he is in such a state of perturbation through antici- pation that his mind is entirely diverted from his lesson. It is noticeable that the dog does not always wait until the very end of the training are always of the same bellowing order, and if the dogs so trained could tell of their training, they would relate the history of a miserable life. The retrievering of pointers and setters if they are good finding dogs, are very useful in hunting waterfowl. The Duck retriever, if it is made partially or wholly the dog's regular work, never fails to induce rheumatism, deafness, gall and other diseases of the joints and muscles. Many setters and pointers will retrieve ducks excellently well, but in cold weather they perform from pure courage and BREAKING AND HANDLING. 13 intense liking for the sport. Not infrequently they work simply by means of their own strength, and without tools of any kind. They have not the strength of limbs or hardness of body or constitution necessary to withstand the effects of the severe labor and exposure. There is no more pitable sight than that of a dog, tired out with hard work, who has been working all day long, and who, after two shots, fatigued from violent exertion and chilled to the marrow from exposure to ice, cold and mud, water and snow, is lying on the ground, exhausted and unable to work that he may get food. The Chesapeake Bay dog and Irish water spaniel have. The former is stockier in structure, heavier in bone and muscle, and more powerful in action than the latter. He is a good dog built down in every respect, as is necessary to meet the re- quirements of his special work. Extremely cold water, or very wet sand, or both, are sufficient to chill him; and this is on him that it does on the setter and pointer. The Irish water spaniel has an extremely heavy, oily coat, and is very poor at keeping warm. He is a very good retriever, but naturally water dogs, working in water from the choice. The setter and pointe love water at such times as they are warm from the sun or from the heat of the earth during hot weather. Too often the mere fact that they will retrieve ducks is taken as sufficient evidence that they are consti- tutionally well adapted to the sport. In many cases, how- ever, the value of the dog as a hunter is, by duck re- trieving, first impaired and afterwards gradually destroyed. In order to understand fully what constitutes a good retrievering, namely, the forcing system and what is commonly called, or miscalled, the natural method. As these systems differ so much in details, they will be described under separate heads. THE NATURAL METHOD. This method is applied by taking advantage of the 14 MODERN TRAINING. puppy's natural inclination to frolic, and carry objects in his mouth from playtime; therefore he takes time in which the puppy can be taught after this system is in puppyhood. Puppies, when playing alone, often take a old stone, bone, or other object, and carry it about with them. With the said, aged dog, this method has very little value, such dog being too marred in intelligence to be of the slightest use in this respect. The same applies particularly when there is such a very small element of fun in it. Occasionally a very good retriever is made by the so-called natural method. The term is misleading in its meaning, as no dog retrieves naturally, although some learn with very little training. The dog must be taught to retrieve simply by simple instruction to the method in which force is applied. A vacant room is the best place in which to give the lessons, it serving the double purpose of preventing outside incidents from diverting the puppy's attention, and restrain- ing him from running away. It is impossible to make a dog in- able to hear no spectators, it being self-evident that the trainer should have the puppy's undivided attention in his lesson, and that he should not be disturbed. The whole method is comprised in training the puppy, by insensible gradations, from carrying an object in play for his own amusement, to carrying it for the trainer's pleasure. All the different moods and peculiarities of the puppy must be carefully noted, taking advantage of those which are most favorable. Those which are least favorable are unfavorable. Simply by constant practice he learns the meaning of the orders, and obedience is established by force of habit. The puppy will not understand until he sees that, in the actual work of the dog which is taught after this system, since he obeys of his own will, and the trainer is BREAKING AND HANDLING. ordinarily without any compulsory means to enforce retiring if the dog is not so disposed, but that he must always be associated with this branch of his work, otherwise when it ceases to be a pleasure, or when he resents punish- ment, he may quit perpetually as a retriever. The first step is to begin by making him to engage the puppy's attention to a ball or glove, at the same time, by talking to him, and by exciting his playfulness. Assuming that the ball is held in his mouth, the puppy will, in most instances, run after it and pick it up. If he does not, his playfulness must be excited by tying a handkerchief round his neck, and then running about along the ground in front of him; at all events, his playful- ness must be developed by some means, else the matter thereof will never be learned. The puppy must have a great deal of latitude in carrying and playing with the ball, in the beginning, during several lessons. In these cases, it is well to make use of a stick or a small puppy than to make him obediently thereby gaining his per- manent interest in the lesson, as a habitual difference. After the puppy has been taught to carry the ball in his mouth, when the ball is thrown out, the command Fetch should be given simultaneously therewith, and by many times repeating the command until the puppy understands what it means. When he has caught the two, and from habit will obey. When he is proficient in this stage, he is ready for the next. When the ball is thrown on the ground, and the puppy catches it immediately, then when he is released give the order Fetch. If he strag- gle to break away while being held, he should be held firmly with both hands until he has caught it. This exercise should be longer, according as his interest and fondness for the play will admit, till at least half an hour will be spent and retrieve to orders. If he is annoyed perpetually, he will have a passion at sight of the lesson, and by easy intermediate stages. 136 MODERN TRAINING. he is trained from carrying and fetching. In play to retriev- ing or commanding, he is taught to get playfulness in his work until he reaches the natural steadiness and se- dateness of maturity. His playfulness, however, can be indulged only so far as it does not interfere with the dog's submission to him. When he shows the slightest alarm or indifference, the limit of suppression has been reached. Improvement comes by gradual training and repetition. The same is true of all other exercises. As soon as, in the primary lessons, he will carry the ball in his mouth with any degree of certainty, the ef- forts should be made to make him carry it into the room in his mouth without tossing it in the air, rolling it in his mouth, or violently shaking or biting it. If he cannot be steadied in this way, he must be taught to carry it without his disturbance, it can be taught in separate lessons in a differ- ent room, for a dog not only can learn to associate corre- ction with the act of carrying but also to associate it with the place in which it was given, and will anticipate a recurrence of the unpleasantness of taking into such assi- cated rooms. It is obvious that no unpleasant associations should be established until the dog has learned to receive his regular lessons. To enforce obedience in carrying the ball, a little necessity is necessary. In a short rope, two or three foot long, to his collar. Make him stand still and check all ef- forts to throw the ball as an amusement in this lesson. It is better to use a different lesson than one associated with pleasure, may arise in other lessons from associating unpleasantness with this lesson. A glove may be used, and this will serve the better, as most dogs dislike being handled. When he takes his mouth, hold the left hand gently but firmly under his own jaw and say "Give." The who should be used just sufficiently to steady him without alarming him at it BREAKING AND HANDLING. 127 excites his resentment and obstinacy, he must be forced to hold the glove in his mouth, whether he will or not. If he does not submit to this, he must be made to feel that it is difficult to give him a cut of the whip, and the order Hold, or Stand. Make him stand up if he shows any attempt to lie down. He will then be forced to hold the glove with his teeth, and must be forced to hold the glove, however much he dislikes it. When he will hold it steadily while standing still, he may be taught to hold it when moving about. The lesson of holding the glove in a steady manner is one which should be given regularly until steadiness shall receive instant correction. After several lessons, given with rigid formality, he will become so accustomed to the order that he will do as ordered, though he may not understand why it is so. He will thus learn that the order is given by the trainer, and that it is not permitted to presume on it, by attempting his old tricks. These lessons must be given separately, until thoroughness has been attained. This is done by giving the dog a short rest between each lesson. It is only after a long period of rest that the dog will again become active and eager for more lessons. As soon as the dog becomes active again, another lesson must be given. This process is continued until the dog has learned all the lessons given in conjunction with the regular lessons in retrieving. If the dog manifests any uneasiness in the new requirement, which may be caused by fear of being punished for disobedience. After the puppy has learned to fetch the glove to his trainer, he will be sure to display some peculiarities which will cause him to be punished for disobedience. He should be corrected. He will pick his head to one side as the trainer reaches for the ball, or he will hold it tightly with both teeth, or he may bite at the ball before it can be reached by the trainer. In such cases, the trainer must correct the puppy before he can reach the ball. Many good trainers fail to finish the education in this respect. If the dog will not release the ball when the trainer grasps it, it should not, by any means, be pulled out 128 MODERN TRAINING. of his mouth forcibly, or any force applied to it. Simply group is quietly and gently led to the Gate, at the same time, steping on his fore foot, pressing harder and harder until he will release it. Very little pressure will accomplish the purpose. It is well to remember that the word "release" means the meaning of this order, when taught in this manner. After three or four orders combined with the pinching of his cow, he will learn to release himself by the pressure of your hand. Thus, by very a little care he may be prevented from acquir- ing a very disagreeable, harmful fault, which he would always retain if left unchecked. In teaching these fine tel details is the finest training established. In teaching retrieving by this method, the lesson should never be continued unless the dog shows a decided interest in its object. The association with each lesson should, so far as possible, always be pleasant, that it will anticipate them with pleasure. The dog must also understand that it is mind also that this method is dependent for its success on the pleasure or willingness of the dog; and if he fails at any one lesson, because of some unpleasant experience, it may then and there so far as it usefully retires. After the puppy is fairly proficient, he should be re- quired to bring various objects which he can conveniently carry. If trained too long on one object, he may become partial to it, and refuse to bring all others. By neglecting this important point, many dogs are made untrainable while the dog may readily retrieve a glove or ball, but from having been repeatedly treated to them, will not retrieve any other objects. The dog must be taught to bring every object, and one object to another, can be made gradually ; for in stance, if we wish to effect a glove and will not fetch a ball, the wings and large feet of the dog will not reach a ball, the glove, beginning with a few ; then, as the lessons ad- BREAKING AND HANDLING. 129 vance, adding more and more. In this manner the rega- nance which some dogs have to grasping feathers will be overcome, and they will learn to grasp with their teeth, weight from time to time, by stuffing it with scraps of cloth; thus he will learn to grasp a larger and heavier object. The dog must be taught to obey his master, giving these lessons, since only by constant repetition and diligent attention can obedience be established as a habit. Regular classes are necessary, and the lessons must be given in ordination. If the lessons are given in a desultory manner till the puppy reaches maturity, it is useless to attempt per- manent results. The dog must be taught to obey his master by omitting two or three lessons, or conducting the lessons in a heedless manner, progress may be impeded. The dog must be taught to obey his master by being gra- naded into steady obedience, much depends upon the tem- perament of the dog, and his interest in the work. The train does not always progress at the same rate in all cases, all the time. Some dogs require more time than others in observing the rules of yard training. The dog may be capricious and develop excessive obstactive crochets, and frequently progresses is thus brought to a standstill. The dog must be taught that the master's hand is faster than the humber of the dog will admit, if at all. It is very injudicious to attempt any compulsory treatment un- less it is done with great care and consideration, and not to chill his ardor, and have a corresponding ill effect on the training. Moreover, whatever cane may have been taken in yard training, the greater number of natural retrievers soon acquire a slovenly manner of retrieving. He may come in his own way, or give it a vicious pinch as he releases it; he may toss or roll the bird in his mouth; he may drop it several yards from his handler and resume hunting, and no perspiration 130 MODERN TRAINING thereafter will induce him to touch it. If the trainer attempts to correct his dog by giving him faults by punishment, it invariably results in the end of retrieving. The dog does not comprehend that the punishment is for the ill manner of retrieving, but for the fault of not touching the third in his mouth at all, the difference between a sound bird and a crusted one being nothing to him; but he can readily per- ceive that the dog is punished for not retrieving, and this makes faults relating to retrieving. If he breaks shot to retrieve, from the dog's point of view it is simply a desirable effort to get the ball away from himself. When the dog has retrieved, he associates with the act of getting the bird and not with a failure to remain steady, as his handler intended it should be. This is a great mistake on the part of the trainer, who fails by refusing to retrieve, and such refusal is commonly permis- sible unless forbidden by the force system. A dog taught by the natural system will never fail to retrieve, because it is the game which calls and that is the kind which he has hunted most. One trained on quilts will refuse to retrieve nip, auchen as well as a dog trained on a string line. As in all other cases, there are occasional exceptions, yet such are rare enough from their inherent willingness to please, instead of from any lack of ability. The power of hunting, than from any inherent merit in the system of edu- cation. The same peculiarities may be observed respecting retrieving dogs of game, as dogs perfected by force, but there is this important distinction in them. There always has been means of good fortune eliciting them. The trainer should endeavor to find any dogs which require more exercise than the average, and those are related of puppies which began to retrieve from the very first time they were taken out into the field. The training of dogs is never favored with dogs of this kind, although they per- fectly understand what is meant, and have many times seen BREAKING AND HANDLING. 13 the act which is mistaken for a retrieve. The puppy takes the dead bird in his mouth because it is a gratification to him, and he does not know that it is a mistake. The jurist may hold it in his mouth while going to his master, thus it may have a slight resemblance to a retrieve; but when the dog has been trained by the repetition of the act, he would have noted that the dog com- plied not only by eating the bait, but also by bringing it back to his master. Sometimes by repetition the dog will bring back the bait without finding it, which is very often the case with a retriever, and always very faulty. All experienced professionals attach no importance to an act of this kind. They prefer the retriever who brings back the bait. In his first years of training when the author, by a little experience and great a deal of reading, had qualified as an instructor, he was much impressed by the system of unlimited, and a performance inverse to the theories, he adopted the act called natural method; and had an abor- tive recollection of having seen a dog trained in this way, cruelly, although it was not then in general use. The natural system worked with average success, which was con- sidered satisfactory at that time. It was afterwards found that it had ever been practised in that section. The beauties of the system and the cruelties of the force system were much disputed, and many people were of opinion that the former collate at that time, it by no means implied his powers of criticism on it; this, however, being merely peculiar, as such people relating to dogs are apt to do. The author has never tried any other system. At length the writer applied the system to a sedate, mature dog which had neither fun nor frolic in his compositions. He had a great deal of severe and hooked up to him, and he was so much annoyed by these dry blashminds and many rewards for the little requi- tions he would occasionally condenced to show, he was wrought up, through a painfully tedious series of degrees, to 132 MODERN TRAINING. a point where he would exhibit a loss of affected cheerfulness, and in rare cases where he had at one time been unusually per- fused with spirit, he would cut out a mild caper or two, if a reward was in sight. By assiduous attention he was per- fected in this art, and his master, who was a man of great relaxed to a misery. If he was hungry, he would fetch a glove to order for a reward, but he performed with such meander- ing grace that the effect was lost. The dog's mind was a source of spirited work. Hunger would not improve the quality of his work although it would prolong it until his appetite was satisfied, and then it would be resumed. The dog's patience time, and his flatulence, perfect, had to be accepted. Thus man- tens stood for several weeks, the dog learning thoroughly just what was required of him. He learned that the more an animal worked, the worth the most out of it that was possible for the least effort. At such times as he did not feel like working, he could be easily and quietly adjourned until he recovered from his cawing. Seeing it stated that a bone was a particularly nice object to teach the dog to retrieve, I asked my friend whether he thought that the bone was not truly his own, he would sit and calmly contemplate it. His discomposure became so irritating that, he took up the matter with his trainer, who assured him that his self-complacency was greatly shocked by a practical introduction to its application. Within a few weeks there- after, when I visited him again, I found that the dog's head and tender retrieving are concurred, could not be desired. This experience changed the owner's views entirely in respect to the effects of training on the dog. However, it is a very beneficial experience to the trainer, and one to be earnestly recommended, to train a few dogs or retrievers for the purpose of acquiring an intimate knowledge of dog character and manner of holding his attention. acquired, the necessary self-discipline in giving the lessons, A black and white illustration of a dog retrieving a bone. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 133 and the fact in developing the dog's ideas, are all valuable and important adjuncts to the training process. The primary use of any skill is to make the system, as much as possible, efficient. When properly applied, it is, in a great measure, accessory to this system, and not a distinct system by itself, as many imagine. THE TRAINING METHOD. Establishing a bond between the dog and its owner is properly done with the spike collar or the spike collar and whip, which is the superior method of all methods. The dog's actions are con- stantly influenced by the manner in which he is handled and force with which the dog grasps an object can be regu- lated. If at any time in the dog's life, he should refuse to retrieve, there is always the chance that he may have been handled improperly. If properly taught, a retriever per- fected by force is always a retriever. It is more difficult to apply to dogs of a certain disposition than to the natural dog. A dog who has been trained to do his work under circumstances at times, yet it is never then as well done, although it may serve the purpose of satisfying a purchaser or owner. It is necessary to train a dog so that he will have freedom from punishment, and the non-performance with punishment. The spike collar has advantage because it is hard to get a dog to bite on anything other than pulling the ears, or in fact, any other punishment within proper limits can be applied effectively, but some of them, particularly those which are used in the show ring. There is no method whereby the punishment can be so effectively administered conjointly with keeping the dog in harness as that of using the spike collar and whips, with the spike collar, or spike collar and whip. A few trainers use the whip alone, but it is unnecessarily harsh and has many undesirable results when so used, although there are dogs of such ordinaryity that the whip is 134 MODELS TRAINING most no fewer to accomplish the object, with such it is the proper instrument. When used, however, to supplement the spike collar, it has special advantages; and they can then be applied with far less punishment to accomplish the purpose. The use of the spike collar, however, by means have nothing worthy of notice save their novelty, forcing a dog to remove through the instrumentalility of the spike collar, is a method which is not only inferior in its method with the greater number of expert trainers. As in all other branches where force is used, to teach successfully this type of training requires a great deal of patience, different temperaments and the effects of punishment on the individual dog at different stages of his training. Forcing a dog to remove through the spike collar is not so much about him from the very beginning till he, as many sup- pose, fetches the desired object. It is a system of distinct stages of training, each stage being more difficult than the one before it. Each stage requires some peculiarities of treatment differ- ing more or less from the others. Instead of being a mass of confusion and disorder, it must be a system that is in- telligently inflicted in small doses, to establish perfection, detail by detail. To do this in the best manner requires experience and skill. The trainer must be able to see the novice who will take time enough and follow directions carefully can make a possible success if he has any talent for doing so. If he has none, neither experience nor in- struction will avail. Now there is a great deal of dexterity in the manner of jerking the dog's head back and forth, but it depends upon the degree of force necessary, and the correct instant at which to apply it. The jerk should not be a long, sweeping one, but rather a quick positive jerk which will hardly move the dog from his place, or permit him to do so even if he wishes. A fair BREAKING AND HANDLING. degree of manual strength and dexterity are necessary quite as much to avoid giving unnecessary punishment as to pun- ish properly. The dog must be taught to understand the collar with the force, promptness, skill and correctness which are required. He must be ever watchful to modify or change his course when he sees that the punishment is not as severe as exhibited by the dog, and no two dogs require pre- cisely the same treatment. Jerking a dog about violently, and punishing him severely without regard to his intel- sibility can such acts be considered a part of intelligent training; on the contrary, they defeat the purposes of train- ing and are likely to result in injury to the animal's condition. The punishment should not be so severe at any time as to terrify him. When terror strikes he is either unable to resist or else he will run away. Such severity is never required to accomplish the purpose. Rarely will the trainer have to exert himself violently if the client does not give him any reason for doing so. The beginning will be tugging the dog to fetch, and begin thenceon to punish violently with the collar; immediately he is terribly angry, perspires profusely, gives a sudden jump, and loses all patience till man and dog are exhausted, and the neighborhood disgusted. Unless such weakness can overcome, the trainer would do well to abandon this method of training until he has acquired some value where the trainer's temper is uncontrollable. Before beginning the retrieving lesson, the dog should be thoroughly exercised and made to work hard by put- ting it, having a rope eight or ten feet long attached to it, on his neck. Let him struggle as much as he will, holding himself back against the pull of the rope. Then pro- gressively hit his chest and the attempts to go; let him go so without hindrance until he is satisfied that his efforts are futile and an injury to himself. The theory generally 136 MODERN TRAINING. Is very brief. Permit him to rest and collect his ideas, then pull gently on the leash, and let him struggle again if he will. Let him have his own time, for there is no occasion for hurry, or gain by it. Repeat this as long as he will struggle, and then give him a short rest. The more often this event is made to continue till he will lead promptly and easily with the collar; if it is done thoroughly it will save trouble in the future. A dog that has been trained to good health, his boson should be held in abeyance until such time as it is good. Next, take him to a place to be taught to come promptly to order from a short distance, say ten feet. This will be the outside distance that he will be required to be away from his handler when called. He must be led up to the line, sit, and jerk at the same time with sufficient force to hurt him a little; continue this till he comes in, then put him and let all panting cease. Then repeat the exercise, but increase the length of the rope, and repeat the lesson. When he will lead calmly, with the collar, and obeys the order Come to, the first direct lesson is complete. The next is to teach him to come directly into a vacant room, or some secluded, quiet place where one can be given free from interruption. The hands should be protected by heavy gloves, a piece of cloth being placed over them so they cannot reach the rope from behind. With hands, and protect them from abrasions, bites or scratches. The lessons given in the summer time, early in the morning or as late as evening, are best for this purpose. If giving during the hottest part of the day, the dog becomes distressingly warm and thirsty. In such cases, if he is allowed to drink freely, if heated during any lesson, it should end so, if she permits the dog to drink freely of water before starting out. If the dog is going currently, it is necessary to him to keep his head downed, and he has neither the power nor inclination to hold up. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 137 thing in it for other than the briefest period of time; hence he is incapable of receiving his lesson in a satisfactory man- ner. The dog must be given to understand that he will get much better for summer training. After the lessons are begun once, they should be given punctually every day. This is specially necessary with puppies, who are very prone to become lazy by neglecting their work for a few days, he may develop some whim, crankiness or objec- tiveness. This is a great evil, and one which must be guarded against. It will add greatly to the trouble of teaching him; furthermore, a puppy's memory is not always retentive, therefore it is pleasanter, better and quicker to observe precise regularity. The dog must be taught to give up his food when the bell rings, to take a spike collar, suspension of the lesson for a week or two, or until his confidence and spirits are restored by the kindest treatment. He must also learn to retrieve at all places where he is sent, and to retrieve where little punishment is required, is frequently very beneficial to timid dogs, and sometimes to obstinate ones. In order that the dog may learn the elements of obedience, the nature of the dog must be considered. The instinct of the dog is to chase after any object which moves. In the case of the ob- sessions of the obstinate dog, he may, by fatigue and kindness, induce him to take an interest in retrieving without much pressure. The dog must be taught that it is not good re- spect as to the propriety of giving the dog a rest. The res- sible obstinate, silly, 'chuckly,' or ill-natured dog will not learn well. One lesson in the morning and evening respectively are sufficient for one day; and the lessons should not be long, say five minutes each. When the dog is tired out, he becomes vicious, when it may be hunger. When he does nicely it may be shorter. It is well to make the lesson end with something pleasant. The dog must be taught to do what he has been doing well, and learn to stop without attempting to force him through the whole course at once. The true system is to teach the simple elements one at a time, perfecting the 138 MODERN TRAINING. dog carefully in one stage before advancing to the next. His knowledge then must be complete; otherwise, the dif- ferent degrees of understanding, according to his confidence will be retained, and a great deal of unnecessary violence will be avoided. Remember, that the dog is not the minion's servant, but a friend, turbulence and intensity of feeling detract from the training; if present, they are a fault which indicates that the dog is not well trained. A core lesson is very good object to begin the lessons on. It is light, neat, disagreeable, and can be easily replaced when soiled. A piece stick, about 10 inches long, with a hook, at the upper end, and a short circular hook at the other end, long and an inch in diameter, is frequently used, but it absorbs the saliva readily, collects dirt, and hence has unde- sirable properties. A piece of half inch rope about eighteens inches long, fastened to the spike collar, is sufficiently long for the first lesson. The dog should be placed on the ground with the end of the collar beside him placed on top of the dog's neck; the longer past rimming being held by the hand. The side of the dog must be held against the handler. Grasp the end of the collar close to the dog's neck with the right hand and hold the pad in front of him with the left. The dog should stand on his haunches with his left leg forward and his head angles to the front of his sit. If during the lesson, there is any moving about, the same relative position should be maintained. In this position the dog can be handled better and more effectively than in any other way; and by always assuming the same posi- tion, instruction will be more easily understood. As this is always applied in the same manner, the pad is held in the same place, and the dog and handler are in their relative positions. This is very important to note, and no deviation should be permitted to show the importance of modi- THE FIRST LESSON IN RETRIEVING. A light pink background with a subtle texture. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 139 taking, find conditions it may be mentioned that, even when the dog is half trained, the collar must be held by the trainer taking the collar in his left hand, thus reversing the positions if he is right-handed, the dog will become as con- stantly accustomed to this position as to any other. The dog would be, in wing shooting, if required to shoot from the left shoulder. A firm jerk should be given at first to test the dog's reaction, then a gentle pull with the left hand, a variety of effects produced on different dogs---some will cry out at the slightest pain, others become apathetic, either again become obstinate or vicious, or frightened or silly. Every effort should be made to avoid these results. In the timid dog, or the one which will cry out at slight punish- ment, should be forced to retrieve with the greatest delib- eration and patience. In the more stubborn dog, however, always noting the effects of the punishment, and modify- ing or increasing it according to requirements. If a dog is not trained properly, it will not retrieve his mouth. If he will cry out at slight punishment, that is all that is necessary or desirable in the beginning. Immedi- ately after retrieving a shot, the dog should be called at the same time, in a quiet tone of voice, the order, "Fetch." The very instant that the corn cob is in his mouth, a couch should be placed between him and the dog. The couch and punishment should cease; however, he should be forced to remain steady in place and hold the cob. In the first stage of training, it is advisable to have a man on one side hand to prevent him from ejecting it, any such effort meet- ing a warning pull on the collar. The instant cessation of punishment and the immediate return of the dog to his obeying, holds good throughout every stage of retrieving. If the dog will not cry out when the collar is jerked lightly, it is known to jerk him severely. Catch the collar close to the neck with the right hand, give the hand a firm twist to 140 MODERN TRAINING. the right backward, thus drawing the collar very slightly around his neck and shutting off his wind; his mouth will open instantly; place the col in b, at the instant separating the collar. After two or three punishments of this kind, the most obstinate dog will become so used to the touch of the collar tightening. Thus the beginning is a light jerk for those that will cry out easily, and a choke for such as will not. The next step is to make him understand that, even without jerks which he cannot possibly comprehend. Now, the amateur should make a firm stand to avoid the false way of training by jerks alone. For instance, when the most pernicious effects, namely, she should not begin the next stage before its preparatory stage is completed. Keep the dog in a state of anxiety by giving him no outlet punishment, when the order FALLEN is given. If it re- quires five or six lessons, or five or six dozen lessons, give them fifteen times in succession. When he has learned to perform the simple parts, he cannot reasonably be expected to perform the more complex. The dog must be trained who should be shown the dog at this stage. Remember that he is wholly ignorant of what is required. Even if he does not perform any part of the art perfectly, he may still be made to show great willingness to please. Nothing is so worthy of supreme contempt as punishing a willing dog, from which ignorance cannot escape. The dog must be made to understand that, and repeated lessons are necessary by which to teach him. Remember that force is purely an accessory, to be used only when all other means have failed. The use of many pains with details are unnecessary, and he may force the training unnecessarily fast. If the dog happens to be of the right temperament, he may succeed in one lesson; but he may make a success; but for one success of this kind, he will make a dozen failures if he should attempt to train many dogs. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 141 After the cub is placed in the dog's mouth, in the first les- son, speak kindly to him and allow him a few moments to consider his position. The dog will then open his mouth and bite in his mouth and refusing to hold it, as difficult as possi- ble; the former by kindness and approval, the latter, by disapproval and punishment. In this way he will learn that a few lessons leads to open his mouth at the command "Zoel," without any punishment. Having learned to bite with its teeth, may develop some traits which will complicate matters and seriously obstruct progress unless they are correctly prompted as they de- velop. The dog must be taught to obey all commands pro- ceeds as if they were a matter of course. The follow- ing is a common one: The dog, when the collar is pulled, must immediately stop and return to the master. This is training. The lesson should be entirely suspended, and the ef- forts devoted to making him stand on his feet, which is difficult enough without being made to bite. He must be taught to take his place in front of the master with his left hand and take a good light whip in the right. Do not at- tempt to jerk him into position with the collar, for while the cub may be made to do so by force, it will not be done much easier in the manner of many instances with a light riding whip or very light rawhide. Turn him smartly on his toes, at the same time giving the order "Hold up." As he per- forms this exercise, give him a light pull on the collar and apply the whip to the other feet and deliberately, but per- suasively, apply it thus until he stands up. The retreating lesson is to make him sit down. This also should be invariably corrected in the same manner, thus it soon will be overcome. When he has learned this month voluntarily when the order "Zoel" is given, he is prepared for the next stage, which is to make him walk one or two steps to the object which the trainer holds in his left hand in front of him, and instead of 10 142 MODERN TRAINING. placing it in the dog's mouth, he is taught to step forward and grasp it. Having thus learned to do this, it is found convenient for him to see it and grasp it easily. Then give the order Fisch, jerk the collar in a line with the object to be caught, and then repeat the order. When he grasps it himself, yet assisting him a little by putting it near his mouth so he is aware of about it. At this stage, if at all possible, the dog should be placed in a corner of his mouth, all punishment should instantly cease. Gently stroke him on his head, and speak to him kindly. Make him perform the exercise again and again until he can perfect him so that he will stop walking and grasp the object instantaneously without punishment, when the order Fisch is given. The dog should be trained to jump up at the time of being jumped and sagging in the collar, a serious fault which must be thoroughly corrected before proceeding further. When the dog has learned to grasp she rope with both hands and give her a sharp jerk, so that it will not catch him at the end of his back walk, immediately after the order Fisch is given. This is very important. Every time that he repeats the fault, repeat the punishment, for he must be forced to step forward when the order Fisch is given. In training dogs to catch fish, the dog is vigorous and attempts to bite, which is a rare case, upon a rope about five or six feet long so that the trainer can stand far enough away from him to prevent any injury to his hand in the hand which has been taken off his arm to close in to bite. If the trainer is not strong physically, or if the dog is too strong, he should not attempt to hold his collar and the other one tied to a post, etc., if the dog attempts to rush on the trainer, the rope will prevent him from doing so. If he does not succeed in catching fish and is subjugated, better. Apply the whip liberally and severely until he surrenders. Once subdued, he is permanently conquered. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 143 When the dog has learned to grasp the object, he may have other disagreeable traits when he walks in. He may jump over the object, or run around it, or even bite at it repeatedly. This is faulty. He should be required to stand squarely in front of his handler. When he runs be- hind, he should be made to turn back and face the trainer. The dog with a cut of the whip from the opposite side to that which he ran by, and whip him back to his place. If this is done frequently, the dog will learn to run behind. Speak kindly to him when he is in his proper place, thus making correct acts pleasant, and faulty ones unpleasant. The dog should be made to stand either lying close by on the ground, or placed under a belt on the person. Other faults, some of which the amateur is predisposed to treat with severity, should be indifferently considered. In his first lessons the dog will grasp the object awkwardly, and will not always hold it long enough. It is advisable that he should be permitted to again grasp it without punish- ment if possible. When punishment can be avoided, it is better than giving it. The dog must learn to grasp it correctly, however backward he may be in the beginning. He does not fully comprehend at the begin- ning what is expected of him. He will not understand why he will simply rent his nose on it, thinking that he has complied with the order, although some obstinate dogs will do the same thing as soon as they are given a chance. If the dog crouches and crawls between the feet, close the ankles on his neck and give him several cuts on the nose with a whip. This is a fault which is very common among beginners and very common fault. The most difficult part of the system is in teaching the beginning, and if pains are not taken to correct these obstreperous faults, they are a drag to progress, and may entirely prevent the trainer from achiev- 144 MODERN TRAINING. ing success. When once corrected, they are permanently cured. When the dog will step forward and grasp the cob to the der, without hesitation or awkwardness, he may be taught next to to step back and grasp the same cob with one or two inches. He may refuse to lower his head or grasp it at the new position, but can be taught this part as before. Thus, he is perfected in the first stage of the exercise, and can cob from the hand on a level with the ground. With some dogs which are willing to obey, these successive stages may be overcome by the use of a stick. By moving the stick for- ward to grasp the cob to order, it can be moved forward and at the same time gradually downward; he will follow with his head and mouth, and when he has grasped it, it can be done with tact, sometimes requiring him to follow it a few centimeters, sometimes merely to the ground, and other times simply to the hand. In this way he is taught to step forward at each stage, and even an earlier one, if she train is artful, he may induce the dog to retrieve without further punish- ment. If she does not do so, she must be trained again. The trainer may induce him to play by moving the cob transi- ently to and fro in front of him, all the other conditions of order, being observed. This is a very useful method of pro- gressing and grading it, and shows some interest and pride in his success, permit him to carry it, and praise him. The pulle calls attention to the fact that he is not only able to do this necessary to make him always obedient and to estab- lish all the necessary rudiments for a finished retriever. The collie, however, is not so easily taught as the setter. These dogs re- quire lessons to enforce the necessary promptness and to suppress any faults which may show signs of developing, such as a hard mouth or a head that is too high. These faults cannot be de- veloped in comparatively few instances. The greater number have to be drilled through each successive stage, with painstaking formality. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 145 When the dog will grasp the cob from the hand when it is on the floor, there is usually next a troublesome stage to be passed through, $Z$, at which the dog will not grasp the cob by the awesomeness of the dog in grasping the cob, he not being conscious of the proper manner of doing it when un- derstood. In this case, after the dog has had some experi- ence any difficulty in grasping it when it is on the floor, the hand can be lowered to the floor, the backs of the forefeet placed against the floor, and with one finger on the floor, the other on the ends of the fingers, thus he can get his lower jaw under it without difficulty. Mr. N. B. Noyes says that this is a very good method of teaching contrivance which fills the requirements of this stage admi- rably. A piece of soft wood, about the size of a corn cob, with a hole bored in its center, is used for this purpose, in each end, thus forming an object having some resem- blance to a miniature saw-horse. When it rests on the ground, it is held in position by a string or cord which admits the dog's under jaw. As this stage is the most difficult to teach, any contrivance which is valuable should not be neglected. The dog must be made to understand that it is necessary to make a certain motion with his lower jaw work him again to this stage. It will then often occur that he will not do so well as he should, but if he does not know what act to perform. In exceptional instances the dog may absolutely refuse to take anything into his mouth until he has been led down and thrown his nose high in the air. No progress can be made until this fault is corrected. Hold the whip in the right hand and give a sharp pull on it every time the dog tries to throw his nose up. This will soon teach him to lie with his nose low. It is no need of hurry or sever- ity. Every time he raises his nose, repeat the punishment. An expert trainer can hold both the whip and rope in the right hand and can manipulate one or the other as he ac- casionally requires. A diagram showing a dog attempting to grasp a cob from a hand. 146 Another very objectionable trait may be exhibited by an obtuse dog, at which time he will refuse to run, namely, he deliberately walk or crawl past the pack although well knowing where it is and how to pick it up. Such cunningly premeditated acts of this sort must be punished with severity, by tying him over the nose with the whip, thus punishing him for avoiding the object and driving him back to his pack. This is a very dangerous trait, as it is not correct if not corrected, but is easily cured in two or three attemps by this means. After the dog has been in the collar withing one order, it may be thrown a short distance, two or three feet away, gradually increasing the distance as he becomes more and more pro- ficient with the collar. A second order may now be put on him simply to keep him in subjec- tion so, if he has been properly taught, he will need very little punishment. After a few days of this training, if the dog does not start promptly to the order Fetch, catch the collar close to his neck, hold the cob in front of him, give five quick pats on the head and say "Good boy," Fizzi, all at the same instant. Repeat till he will start after the cob the moment he is ordered. When he picks up the cob, stand perfectly still or rather than moving while facing his handler. If he is jerked with the collar, it will probably throw the cob out of his mouth. A better way is to let him take a few steps before giving him the order. At this time some light cuts with the whip on his hind legs ; this will force him to quickly face toward his trainer. The dog should be encouraged and given an incentive to action by giving him an occasional reward for good per- formance. The dog should be allowed to continue until proof of his skill by the degree of confidence which the dog has in him, except in the case of an extremely obtuse dog. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 147 the trainer should be able to hold his dog's confidence and affection. If he has failed to do so by his application of methods, oaths has been faulty. After the dog has the cob firmly, the dog may show a tendency to frolic, but all capers should be suppressed. Anything more than cheerful obedience is not required, and is not consonant with a finished education. As a general rule, the dog may show an inclination to crap the cob or other object with just firm a grip, or even lift it. When this tendency toward a hard mouth is observed, the trainer should give the dog a treat for him to retrieve. Drive some slim, worten tropy nails through it in various directions, clinching the ends so that the dog cannot pull them out. When he closes his teeth on such object once, he is cautious thereafter, and may refuse to retrieve at all; or, again, he may close his teeth upon the nail and bring him to it by degrees. The dog intensely dislikes to close his teeth on iron, and will retrieve any object, protected or unprotected, which is not desirable or necessary on the object which he retrieves. He should be regularly drilled on this object till a habit of gripping it is formed. The dog must be given every credit and worthy of mention in this relation, that a dog thus trained can be made a tender-mouthed retriever to a certainty. There is no difficulty in training a dog to retrieve when the trainer's skill and industry. There is no trouble to incinerate promptness, precision, and tender handling of the bird. However, there is one thing which must be carefully avoided--inevitability required, and the dog's intelligence developed--once discipline is established, the rest follow easily. He may next be given lessons in a yard or room from which he cannot escape; and the checkboard may be re- 148 MODERN TEA-SHING. moved. If he refuses, a jerk on the collar usually insures obedience. Any attempt at evasion shows him to be not tolerated for an instant. Do not attempt to coax him. In this sys- tem the dog is trained by repetition until the obedience is complete. No repetition of orders should be given after the dog understands them. One order is suffi- cient. The dog must learn that the collar is a part of his wing, so he can be taught equally prompt obedience to all orders. He may next be drilled in retrieving a dead bird. Some dogs retrieve in without any further effort on the part of the trainer, others have to be in a manner rebochen from the beginning. When the dog has learned to retrieve, but pinch the bird, some temporary nails can be tied about an inch apart around the body, and parallel with its length; or the nails can be driven into the ground at intervals of each end, which can be quickly slipped over a bird. This will force him to grasp the bird with the greatest tenderness, and not let go until he has been taught to hold sharp pointed wires driven through the body of the bird are neces- sary. Repeat the lessons, with the bird as the object to be retrieved, until he will obey with the greatest certainty and correctness. Next the lessons may be repeated in the open fields. If the dog is not yet accustomed to running away from a checkboard or collar at this stage prevent his running away, but if there is any danger of bolting, it is better to take him out of sight of other dogs. He should be trained against running away if he evinces the slightest inclination to do so, for if he runs away once he will be constantly on the alert for another opportunity. Give him two weeks of discipline to correct the carelessness of a moment. After each lesson, when the collar is taken off, the dog should not be released immediately, but should be held and BREANING AND HANDLING. 149 petted until he has regained his self-confidence and cheerfulness. A short run, giving him perfect freedom, will serve to restore his courage and confidence, and to make him a good dog, particularly if the dog is kindly noticed before. No training in actual field retrieving should be attempted between two hours after feeding and one hour before feeding, unless the dog fails to end in trouble or failure, frequently it causes the dog to bolt. We have now followed the dog's progress step by step through the simple act of fetching an object; we now consider some accessory acts which are necessary to give it all appearance of being a complete retrieve. The first work when the dog will fetch in the early lessons with a fair degree of certainty, the cub can be thrown out and the dog led by his collar for a few moments, then given the order "Fetch," and allowed to bring back the object several times in a sufficient number of lessons till he is familiar with it. If he has been taught to drop, which as a matter of fact is not always necessary, he may be required to drop and remain steady when the cub is thrown out, until he receives the order "Fetch." It will be necessary to continue this process until he is perfectly steady to the drop when any object is thrown out, and will not stir out of position to re-ceive another object. If he does not obey this order, do not destroy his confidence by severity. Restrain him mildly with the checkcord, and it is as easy matter to keep him in the same position as long as you require, but if he does not obey your command, you must require, he will gradually submit. Hence it is apparent that jerking the dog about is unnecessary. The dog should never be made to run at a full gallop but immediately afterward commanding him to drop. It con- fuses him and is no part of field work in any relation. When a puppy is sent to retrieve there are no half way 150 MOOHER TRAINING. measures about it. This is a very common and vicious fault with amateurs, and a very objectionable one in many cases. It is desirable that the dog retrieve with a high head, or at least with a level head, and that he should not be habituated to this manner by giving him a reward when he fetches the bird or by petting him, and refraining from taking his hand off him until he has returned. Some sportmen prefer that the retriever will assume a sitting posture while delivering the bird, which has no special value, but it is a good thing to have the dog do so, as it is a part of the art of retrieving, it should be taught in separate lessons at first. The tie a rope to his collar, thus making quickly accessible to him the means of delivering the pre- vent him from lying down with the rope. A snag of the fingers is all the order that is necessary at first); later he can be taught to lie down on command. The lessons should be continued until he is obedient to the signal. While in a sitting position he may be given rewards, and while in a standing position he may be praised. When perfected, it may then be added to training. Even when he will perform accurately, the lessons must be continued until he is thoroughly trained in every form of discipline. His powers of observation by cultivation are also improved, and by association he becomes affectionately attached to his master. He should be taken out into different surroundings, such as different places in the fields while giving him a run, different places along the yard, and different objects of food, such as a piece of bread, a steak, an egg, a bunch of keys, or other small objects, lest these partake of the nature of a trick. If the trainer lives in a country district where there are woods, meadows and prairie chickens, he can make his dog a finished retriever on each kind. The lessons under different surroundings BREAKING AND HANDLING. 151 should not be neglected. As intimated in either places in this work, obedience may be given to others under the con- trol of the trainer, but he must never be allowed to teach, taught, and he may absolutely refuse all under other condi- tions, except force is used. In breaking a dog and field lessons, it is beneficial to give the dog some discipline in carrying the bird steadily for several minutes, while following his trainer. Also drop the dog on the ground at intervals during the lesson with it. If he picks it up without any order, after he carries it, the short distance relieve him of it, and praise him generously. If the dog does not carry it, do not punish him for carrying the bird without any order, and without feeling his trainer's eye upon him, for the eye has a great controlling influence upon the dog. The dog should be taught to carry the bird in the field. It has an application in regular shooting; occa- sionally the dog will find a dead or wounded bird which the shooter cannot reach. In such cases, if the dog does not find a bird some distance away from his handler, he should retrieve it without orders. If trained nicely, he will always retrieve when called upon by his master, and that is what it is commendable. Occasionally a dog of superior intelligence will voluntarily retrieve a bird which he acci- dentally hits. He should be praised for doing so. When injuries or troubles occur, they should not be neglected when they so particularly enlarge the scope of a dog's ideas and understanding. In introducing him to the first actual retrieving of the gun, some precautions are necessary to insure a correct begin- ning. The dog must be taught that he is not to go after a bird or otherwise to wing or shoot, he is not ready for field retrieving until these are cured; otherwise objectionable cumulatives are sure to arise which may require weeks to cure. Notwithstanding all the care expended on his pre- IMMUNARY TRAINING, under the exclusion of the presence of birds, the smell of blood and the instinctive desire to kill, he may show a determination to crush his birds which may entirely forget about retrieving. This transitional stage is the crowning point of the training and must be carried out if managed skillfully. Leave the spike collar on him during the first few retrievers. No checkboard is necessary. Walk up with him and give him a few minutes to think. If he evinces any intention to bite me, put on the elastic bands and nails hereinafter mentioned, throw out the bird and let him come back to me. If he does not retrieve, I give him a lesson by throwing him down several times, and the dog required to retrieve them. Roughly formal in details is necessary in the begin- ning, as this is the time when the dog learns to bring him properly in field retrieving in this manner, he is a tender-mouthed, obedient retriever for life, and by a little care in training, he will become a perfect retriever by experience, or at least maintained at a uniform grade of excellence at all times. Hunting dogs that work company with badly trained dogs will be sure to injure his retrieving. Under no circumstances should two dogs be sent at the same time to retrieve a dead bird. From the moment that one dog leaves the scene, away from the other, the bird is mutilated, and the dog has learned something he ought not to learn. An expert trainer can teach a dog to retrieve without injuring the bird, but the moment that one dog finds it, the other is dropped to a sig- nal or quiet order; but few amateurs have their dogs so perfeetly trained as to do this. The dog must have this performance. Bad tricks are acquired with wonderful quickness, by imitation and natural predisposition, hence 14 MODERN TRAINING BREAKING AND HANDLING. 153 the constant need of guarding against the company of half- broken dogs. Mutilating the birds is perfectly natural to the timid dog, but this is not so with the more intelligent. The tailing is only done in as far as it is against the purposes of the handler; yet this shows the need of taking precautions against the more intelligent dogs which may unnecessarily excite his destructive propensities. A few individuals learn readily to mark the fall of a dead bird, and thus to obtain a reward for their services. This accomplishment is incomparably superior to one which needs assistance at every retrieve. The one goes directly to the bird, and takes it home, while the other requires little assistance can be contributed toward developing this accomplishment, by standing in an open field a few yards away from the bird, and throwing the bird into the air so as to entirely obtrude the view. By throwing objects into the timber for him to retrieve, he may learn to mark the bird first, and then follow it up. He will not always succeed when they are thrown. Such lessons will materially assist to develop intelligent dogs, but there are dogs which never learn to mark the fall of a bird. The proper time to begin the lessons in retrieving after the training has begun varies greatly according to the dis- position of each dog. Some dogs will benefit by marking retrieving his first lesson. The sub- jugation which always results from skillful use of the collar will be found sufficient for most dogs, but some require every part of training. The timid dog should be permitted to gain courage and assurance by freedom in the field before he is required to work under any restraint whatever. If there is any reason for not allowing a dog to retrieve all the peculiarities of his dog, and if there is any reason for or against forcing the dog to retrieve at a certain time, the trainer should defer it accordingly. If the amateur is not pressed for time, it is better to simply give the pupil lessons 154 MODERN TRAINING. in retrieving in the first season and finish the old retrieving or second season. By this course many of the undesirable features which casually appear in the puppy's first field work are avoided. To secure a dog so n'turry; reach one detail at a time; hold the dog's actions; be governed largely in the applica- tion of force by the dog's disposition; give lessons punctu- ally after each day's work; keep the dog in a constant habitat; correct all casual faults as they appear, and remem- ber that the collar is simply an instrument to make the dog go up, not to make him do what he is told to do, but to en- hance the comprehension of its purpose, the knowledge of all details concerning it can be acquired only by experience and habit. The dog must learn to obey his master's com- pulsion, it is a combination of the best parts of two sys- tems, i.e., the natural method and the force system. The compulsion is given by the trainer, and if the trainer does not succeed in dispensing with force after that period, he has failed to understand the application of the art. The manner in which a dog is trained to retrieve when working as one of a brace is described under the head of Brace Work. Find, Seek, Send Dog. These commands are used inci- dentally with retrieving. They denote that the dog is to search for something and bring it back to the gun. The trainer teaches him obedience to one or the other of these orders, but such order should be given to the exhausted dog, when once taught, different orders tending to confusion. The preparatory training in this can be given in early puppies, but still there is no special advantage in teaching retrieving; still, there is no special advantage in teaching it so early. It being made pleasurable and profit- BREAKING AND HANDLING. 153 able to the puppy without being fatiguing, it is easily under- stood and readily learned. Punishment is inadvisable and unwarranted, and the dog must be taught to fear it. From simplicity, has not been susceptible of improvement, the old methods therefore holding good. In breaking a dog, it is in any suitable place, in the house, yard or field, according as the state of the weather or the inclination of convenience to the trainer dictates. In breaking a puppy, it is necessary to give twenty small pieces of meat, weighing each about a half ounce or ounce. He takes but one piece at his hand at a time while giving the other to the dog. The dog will not take the meat if he cannot smell or taste it. If all of it lie in the hand, it will wholly engage his attention, thus impeding the lesson. The dog must be given a chance to smell and taste the meat, permitting the dog to nose the proceedings, since it is desir- able that he should know where the first few pieces are con- cealed. After a few minutes, if the dog does not find them, or four steps away, then give the order Find, releasing him at the same instant, wherever he will go directly to the meat. After a few pieces have been given in this manner, he knows that, when he hears the order, there is something dear to him which he must seek out and find. This must be changed. He is required to find the meat without any pre- vious knowledge of its whereabouts. Place one hand over his head and say Find. If he finds it, praise him and give the order Give. Find. If he is backward in his attempts, or given up the search quickly, assume an air of interest and proceed with caution until he finds it. By observation and imitation, he will soon learn to search keenly for it, particularly if the trainer takes the pre- caution to give the lesson when the dog is hungry. With an indolent dog it occasionally is beneficial to proceed to 156 MODERN TRAINING. find the meat yourself and withhold it from him, thus he will be stimulated to search for it, and find it himself at the next effort. These lessons should not be practised too long or too frequently; once a day is sufficient for training purposes. When the dog comprehends the meaning of the order and will search for the meat with more or less diligence, it should be given a piece of bread, which it will eat. It will thereby certainly acquire a habit of putting his nose to the ground when searching, and if the habit is confirmed, he may be taught to search for other things. For instance, a piece of meat can be placed in the fork of a bush, or in an object, low enough for the dog to reach with ease. In the shade, until such time as he has learned to search for food, instead of sitting on the ground, a corner of the building, or a piece of meat is placed in one and he is required to search until he finds it. This exercise will give him the chance to place with each successive attempt, else he will remain in one place and cannot move about. He must go to each place accurately and go directly from one to the other. By practice he will grow wonderfully cunning and successfully in his quest. As he improves, he may be taught to obey signals of the hand, a wave to the left, a wave to the right, etc., that the most secret account requires. Generally, from observing that it him to success, he quickly learns the meaning of the signal. It is twirled to draw the meat on the ground towards him and it is waved to indicate that he should not go any further. He will have unnecessary difficulty in finding it. If the act closely approximates that required in actual field work, it is efficient. When he is diligent and obedient, the transitional stage between working for his own profit and working for that of his master may be reached. The dog will then have some incentive; his love of appreciation should be BREAKING AND HANDLING. 157 cathivated, and rewards given betimes. A glove may be shown him, then throw it behind some object that will con- ceal it, a drum of boughs, rock, etc., presenting the dog immediately after. The dog will run to the glove, and find it by touch. He may see the glove but not lift it, thinking that there is some palatable morsel to find. Show him by your actions that you have no such thing, and then take up the glove, fetch it, and praise him when it is retrieved. By repeated efforts he will soon learn to seek diligently, and retrieve it out of various places. He will also learn to retrieve at times giving it in one place, then another, thus changing the surroundings. He will search diligently, obediently and promptly. This is a good exercise for a retriever. Training him to return to a long or short distance after a glove, handkerchief, pocketbook or other object is no part of his natural instincts. It must be taught him by repetition. The pleasure in such an exercise as the retriever finds in retrieving a glove, handkerchief, pocketbook or other object is not so great as that which he derives from retrieving a bird. The average pocketbook; and a little pecuniary, in any event, would obviate the need of a retriever for such purposes. Therefore, the reason for possible lost pocketbooks is be- coming a lost art. If the dog in his early training has been judiciously per- suaded that he can obtain food by retrieving birds, many fallen birds with more or less accuracy, and will not there- fore seek to search for them. Care should be taken to cultivate this habit in the dog, as it is very important in a good retriever. When the bird falls, if the shooter notes that it is winged, which he can in many cases do by sight or sound, he should immediately should be sent for without delay to guard against possible loss, or unnecessary hard work in searching for it. Many birds are lost by neglecting this course. If the dog has 14 158 MODERN TRAINING. been taught retrieving by force, he can be trusted to retrieve wounded birds as well as dead ones; if taught by the natural method, the same care must be observed during his training, in this respect. Occasionally, the trainer teaches this order during field work, without giving due attention to the subject. This is not so, as it has obvious and special disadvantages, and is not so certain or uniformly progressive as when it is a course of proper training. It is not advisable to attempt to accomplish the necessary results without so much formality, it is unwise for the amateur to attempt any training in such manner. However, those who have experienced the trained bird, simply by giving him the dog's entreaties, will find that he can teach this branch perfectly without any rewards. STeady. This order denotes that the dog is to shorten his pace at such times as may be required, either to avoid a dead or wounded bird, or for the scattered birds of a bevy. Many dogs learn this without any assistance, if given a reasonable time for experience. A few from impudence or stupidity will not work at a slow gait unless forced to do so. With these, a long course of training is sometimes necessary. When a dog is steady on his feet, a strong dog should go slowly, a checkboard can be put on him, thus affording a means of forcing him to a slow gait. The amateur should not allow himself to think that he is checked. If he will not work well with a check- cord, two pieces of wood, sufficiently long to reach to his partner's neck, should be placed around his collar. If he attempts to go fast, they will play so lively on his forelegs that he will be forced to go slowly. A self-willed, obstinate dog may need a liberal application of che A diagram showing how to train a dog to "steady" by placing checkboards on its legs. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 159 whip to subjugate him permanently. Persistent and long continued effort will accomplish the necessary obedience to the order in all cases, and its importance is such that it should not be neglected. 160 MODERN TRAINING CHAPTER IX. PREPARATORY FIELD TRAINING. The first informal field work of a puppy may be given when he is sufficiently developed, mentally and physically, to have an immunity against the effects of fatigue, but without excessive labor or fatigue, which is generally at about the age of eight months and upwards; at least, it is not specially advantageous to attempt any training at an earlier age. Contrary to the common practice and the teachings of many writers, no training should be attempted until the puppy has been well exercised, and, more especially, in the gun, should be attempted in the preparatory training. This training, given during a longer or shorter period, according to the requirements of the dog, will develop his mental powers and his hunt ing functions, and very important, it being the foundation on which the training to the gun rests, as is specially de scribed under the heading of "The Training of the Dog" and "Ranging." It will be assumed that the training is to be conducted on quails, being the birds which are most commonly sought for the purpose, as they are the best, most numer ous, and widely distributed. However, if the dog is to be trained with either keel-birds or woodcock, the method must be the same in manner, but with ruffed grouse or woodcock more restraint would be necessary in training at all stages. Before methods can be applied in regular training, the dog BREAKING AND HANDLING. 161 must have some knowledge of field work; indeed, skilful methods assume such pre-existing knowledge when applied, and the dog must be trained to do his duty with all the fortitude to the use of the gun. There are ever varying com- plexities in field work, which cannot be reduced to any regular system, but the principles upon which they are based the amateur who will recognize these elementary principles has made a great advance toward success. It is incom- prehensible that a dog should be taught to hunt at all, at first, after which train him to observe formal methods which subserve the purposes of the gun, than to attempt, for instance, to teach him to follow scent, or to take up ficial rules. As between the dog which is forced to observe formal methods, from the beginning, because they are meth- ods which he is compelled to follow, and the dog which learns methods as they relate to the purposes of the gun, there is no comparison. While a dog cannot possibly be developed to follow scent by being taught to follow it, yet it is equally true that his capabilities may be injured or kept dormant by unskillful handling. If we consider that dogs, such as setters, runs race and is wholly without system, do not imagine for a moment that such will be his manner perpetually, even if he handler should make every effort to develop this habit. The dog proves from his own experience, and after awhile settles down into uniform regularity in his work, although at this period he may show signs of discontentment. The owner concern need be felt as to training him to steadyness. Re- member that the dog does not live that cannot be worked to steadyness. The dog who has had no previous hunting experience varies greatly with different dogs. Some require a few days, others many weeks, while timid, cranky, or inordinate dogs may require months. The preparatory fitness of the puppy can be determined by observing whether he 163 **HOUNDS TRAINING** Is hunting for game or merely running about from excess of spirits or vitality. When he ranges and hunts roundly, coarsing his biddings quickly, pointing, flushing and chasing with determination, he is in very good form to begin his training. It is worthy of special note that the manner of the training experience with the gun often determines whether the dog will or will not become a good hound. This is partly due to the fault of the trainer, although amateurs are prone to con- sider it a fault of the dog. Any dog, however courageous, can be made to do anything by force and punishment alone than assume that a hound has an inherent knowledge of the gun and its uses, or a hereditary love for it; a knowl- edge from which he derives his courage. For this reason, education for man has no intention of the gun and its uses, and frequently the report of a gun is very startling in its ef- fect on the dog. The dog must be taught to associate the gun with the sound of the shot, and then only when he is called may he be con- ducted in a manner which will not run counter to his peculiarities, thus much loss of time and the occasions for trouble are avoided. It is of the utmost importance, in all branches of train- ing, but rigidly so in this instance, that the trainer has the dog constantly reminded of the sound of the shot, and remem- bering that may alarm him, such as firing the gun, etc. If the dog is shy from whippings or premature attempts to restrain him, all these things must be avoided until his confidence is restored. This can be accomplished by giving him his hand and allowing him to run at his own pace. The best juncture at which to give the puppy his first ex- perience with the report of fire-arms is when he is ranging BREAKING AND HANDLING 763 In the fields a hundred yards or more away, and in good squires, is not afraid of the dog that is interested in hunting. A small pistol, for special reasons, is the best for the pur- pose. A percussion cap or 2 caliber cartridge should be supplied at first. If the puppy is at all startled at the report, the handler should continue to walk deliberately in one direction, and not turn suddenly to face the dog, who notices whatever he does. Usually the puppy, when he per- ceives that there is nothing to excite his fancy, resumes his usual quietness. If the puppy shows any sign of fear, or wrong or an apprehension of danger, as he may do for sev- eral moments, refrain from shooting until he is again thor- oughly reassured. If the puppy shows no signs of fear, but is a dog of a nervous or timid temperament, as old steady dogs may be taken to accompany him, and the experiences will be beneficial to both parties. Under no circumstances should two or more green puppies be experimented with at once; if one runs, all will be frightened by the report of the pistol. The greatest care should be taken to avoid haste in shoot- ing or in shooting at important junctures. At any time that the puppy shows any sign of fear, or wrong apprehension, as de- ceived by his expectant look and distrustful actions, the hand- ler should not shoot or show other than the most placid demeanor. If the puppy shows no signs of fear, but is a dog of reports are not injurious or related to himself and excite no apprehension in those about him, becomes indifferent to them. When this happens, the pistol should be fired at intervals of frequency, from the lighter powder charges first used to heavier and heavier ones by easier graduations, always, however, with due caution and without any sudden movements un- tanding the efforts accordingly. When the dog exhibits no alarm at the report of the pistol, a gun may be introduced. 164 MODERN TRAINING. A bird at two weeks shall be shut under favorable conditions for him to see them, so that he may learn the purpose of the gun, which he has no fears, will be done readily in one or two hours, and the dog will be trained to follow the hunter until he is a pliant but to begin with many reasons; it is easier to carry; it can be concealed from the dog; the reports are short; and if the dog sees the pelt and becomes afraid, it is easy to remove him from the situation in the frightful noises, there are not then the same objec- tions raised against the training of the dog. He learns very quickly that bringing the gun to the shoulder is a form which precedes the discharge, and naturally, from the an- tiposition of the report, he learns that there are sounds enough without any more. In fact, so fast does he learn, that he cannot hold him to bolt. It is further a disadvantage that after he has outgrown his fears of the report, the act of raising the gun is too much like that of shooting. The dog may easily mix his fears for weeks; thus the preparations for fire the gun may cause more fear than the actual firing itself. In short, by such a mode of work, the trainer can do no assistance in training the puppy aside from taking him to such favorable places as afford opportunities to exercise his hunting desire. The dog who has been brought up on these play- paws, qualities always displayed by an inexperienced puppy, are gradually overcome by experience. It is supposed that for the puppy to be taught by this method before he has had sufficient experience in working on birds; prior to this, methods are simply so many incomprehensible ob- structions. The trainer must first thoroughly understand what con- ducts his training on the theory and practice that the puppy must be controlled and taught even from a very tem- per age. The puppy must be kept away from all danger; finally, as a consequence, the puppy is whipped, barked and perpe- tually restrained, the things he must not do, but wishes to BREAKING AND HANDLING. 165 do, ever recurring. It is not strange that this course pur- sued automatically spoils the dog by unconsciousness teaching his mind to do things in a certain way instead of hunting in a formal manner as the trainer desired. The puppy, which is naturally so subdued in manner that he is easily taught, has no chance to develop his natural qualities of age, has done nothing to excite hopes of superiority in his future performances. The precocity of youth rarely fore- shadows achievement at maturity, the period when the real struggle occurs. The most skilled and intelligent workers are those which are born with a natural aptitude for their work. This natural aptitude for hunting is the result of self-hunting, either alone or with other dogs; in fact, many expert trainers give their puppies a chance to hunt on their own before they begin to backward from timidity, slow development of hunting in- stincts, gummyness, etc., with the most beneficial results. It is not necessary to say that the dog who possesses the highest degree of his working capabilities; and it accords with his natural instincts, and is quicker and more thorough; it is not necessary to say that the dog who is trained by a not hampered by any feelings of constraint which he feels in the presence of his trainer. He learns to comprehend the commands given him, and to understand them; he and back, learns how to read quickly and accurately, and how to mark the flight of birds and follow them; in short, he learns all that is necessary for him to do. In the hands of the novice, the wild pursuit appears ruinous, is against cher- ished traditions, and he cannot refrain from interfering with measures which have been adopted for his benefit. To train a dog this experience is what he must have whether he ac- quires it quickly by freedom, or slowly and imperfectly under the continual balking and modifying of his handler. Many dogs are ruined for want of opportunity to develop. 166 MODERN TRAINING. The dog can be broken on hunting, either wholly or par- tially, by, as well as possible, training him and he very nat- urally interprets constant restraint and frequent punishment as being inflicted for the act of hunting, and not for the managing of his food. In this case, if the chow is not not obstructed by arbitrary rules. The amazant is disposed to think that if the puppy points, gives chase, and brings down game, all will be well with the training completed. The act of pointing, while in- dispensable, is but one of several equally important. Dash and endurance are also necessary qualities in a good first, which cannot be done if the dog is not given his head. Pointing will be established in due time almost to a cer- tainty, but the other qualities must be developed before the mere ability to point well is of little value. In giving the preparatory work, the puppy should be taken out into the open air at intervals during the day in search of food, when the scent is good, the temperature cool, and therefore when the conditions are most favorable. If these conditions are not met, the puppy will not be able to run two puppies together, their mutual jealousy prompting them to repeated errors, or the mutual confidence required, impossible. When the dog's field work is begun, the trainer should note the condition of the dog's health. If he is not in good health and has been allowed to indulge in too much work, Dogs which have been in close confinement should be started to work very gradually. Also the greatest care should be taken to watch over the dog's food. If he has had enough, let him rest well or quit for the time being. Threading a dog at this stage, for mistakes, convenes no problem. The dog should be allowed to make mistakes, therefrom which will enable him to perform better at the next opportunity. No expectations need be entertained BREAKING AND HANDLING. 167 with respect to good work if the dog is not afforded ample experience. For hunting purposes, grounds should be selected which are at least fairly well supplied with birds. If a puppy is worked day after day, under only a few land now and then, he commences to look upon the woods as a mere piece of highway; indeed, an aged, experienced dog will become callous and indifferent under similar circumstances; and a human being may be similarly affected. If the puppy is soft in flesh and thick in wind, it is very unwise to work him in a hot sun. If he is of a nervous, excitable nature, he should be kept out of the woods, which may induce distressing fits, or in fact, he may die. The trainer should shape his route so that there will be op- portunities for rest and water. In the early days of the West and the South, the streams dry up in the summer and fall, and the scarcity of water thus creates a great in- convenience to the hunter. It is advisable to carry a supply of water along, which will afford two small drinks for two dogs; and it can be re-filled at some point on the route. If the dogs are not trained to drink from a bucket, they need a sufficient quantity. If the trailer has no drinking vessel along, the crown of the hat, if of felt, canvas, or curiously, pressed down, will hold water sufficiently long for the dogs to drink it. While all dogs have an affection for their master, work- ing, when properly trained they are capable of performing various duties with intelligence and physical powers, and therefore in their capability and usefulness. Occasionally one will be met with which can do nothing but follow its master around and do nothing more than go to work; however, in hunting for birds, the dog is merely seeking his natural food supply, and until he has had the necessary experience to learn to work conjointly with his handler's efforts, he can 164 MODERN TRAINING. not reasonably be expected to abandon his natural methods; nor should more be expected of a dog than he is naturally capable of. The dog is a creature of habit, and when a dog, good or bad, has off days. When not working up to their usual form, they are frequently treated inconsistently, either by being over-worked or by being indulged with excesses, or indifference, whereas the dog may be unwell, his powers of scent impaired for the time being. When a dog is known to be in poor condition, and yet allowed to work, any temporary incapacity should be treated with indulgence. This inexplicable irregularity will be exhibited more or less by all dogs, and it is only by constant attention that this can be prevented, therefore liable to irregularities in his special performances quite as much as his master who breaks down at times, in his shooting, in his hunting, or in public cases, and no effort for the time being can overcome it. It is well for the amateur to know that deafness and the consequent inability to hear properly are often mistaken for insensibility, which very closely resembles its effect; indeed, many experienced sportmen have been de- ceived in this way. A dog's hearing is not so perfect as man's; it is only partial in each ear, or in one only ear, it is very dif- cult to detect. Where the wind is favorable for the dog to hear commands, he may hear them clearly; but where the wind is against him, he may hear well but is promptly disobedient; at other times he may apparently be willfully disobedient. By noting such actions we can usually determine whether a dog is deaf or not. When lying down or standing about, he may apparently ignore his master's commands; but when he starts suddenly and gives a sharp, tone, when he suddenly starts, looks about with a surprised air, sees that his master requires something and hastens to obey cheerfully, thus showing a functional imperfection in hearing. This infirmity is much more common than is gener- BREAKING AND HANDLING. 169 ally supposed, and may be induced by excessive exposure to wet and cold. It is frequently caused by the promiscuous shooting of too many guns over one dog without any rest between shots. The dog, therefore, becomes a frightful dog, one standing six or eight feet behind him, and shooting over his back, and one or two on one side or on each side of him, and so on. In this way, the dog becomes so used to the noise that those who have not experienced the sensation, it may be explained that a gun fired from a position eight or ten feet from the dog, and another shot from a position twelve or fifteen feet from the ear, has about the same sensation that a blow in the ear would have if delivered with a sand bag. The consequence is that the dog becomes afraid of all guns. Many sportmen have had their hearing impaired temporarily or permanently from this cause. Hence it can readily be seen why it is necessary to give the dog a rest after every shot above a dog would have on his hearing, his head being near the ground. When all the crude methods of education and training are discarded, and only the natural instincts are considered, the wonder is not that there are occasional gully puppies, but that both young and old dogs do not become frightened at the sound of a gun. This is because they generally places the dog in funk beyond question, but if the dog could tell the real case, it would appear very simple and easy to overcome. As mentioned in another part of this work, the dog is extremely jealous, and this trait can be taken advantage of in breaking him. He will not allow himself to be put into cages in field work. The dog cannot endure any rivalry from strange dogs without attempting to defeat them. The jealousy of the dog is at its height when he is first taught this point, and may break shot to prevent his retrieving. Also, this trait may be exercised against his handler, for from fear that his handler may get the birds from him, he will break 170 MODERN TRAINING. his point and flush as he hears him walk up. This trait should not be aggravated, or cultivated, by working the dog perpetually on points, or by making him feel embarra- sant, or has irritating faults, such as failure to back, stealing points, breaking shot, etc. The more intelligent is treated that when his handler is ready to go afield, he shows unlimited delight and eagerness to join. If he shows fear, there is something decidedly wrong in the training. The sportman who can spare but two or three days, or weeks, each year for shooting, makes a serious mistake if he takes a puppy into the field at once. The time required for training and shooting, although the mistake is not infrequent. In the greater number of instances the trip is a disappoint- ment to both parties. It is impossible to make a puppy do in one day what he required a month to learn, the training is almost uniformly a failure. Shoot- ing and training must be carried on alternately, alternat- edly with the pleasure of the shooter and the development of the puppy; much more is it impossible when the shooter may not know even the elementary principles of training. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 171 CHAPTER X. POINTING. Some of the commonest powers of organic beings are the most wonderful in nature, yet their commonness and the resulting familiarity reduce them to the level of the matter-of-fact. The pointer is one of these. He has a faculty which the pointer or setter exhibits in pursuing his prey by the facility of his scenting powers. The preys are usually found on a road or a track, and the dog follows with ease. So exclusively keen is this function of smell that he readily discriminates between the scent of a man and that of a woman, and between the body scent and foot scent. Also, by some difference in the intensity or quality of the scent, he can ascertain whether it is fresh or old, and whether it is on a hot foot scent or body scent, and can distinguish that of a dead or live bird. Pointing, pointing, and setting are terms used synonymously to denote the peculiar, rigid attitude of pointers and setters when in the act of standing near birds of which they have been called upon to point. The position may vary from pointing fully, to no more than a slight inclination from pointing fully, or on the foot scent. The style and intensity of the act varies greatly in different individuals; nevertheless, there is a certain degree of uniformity in it; and there are all kinds and degrees of variations betweeen the best and poorest acts. The two breeds, pointers and setters, do not materially 172 MODERN TRAINING. differ in their attitudes on point in any respect. The gen- eral characteristics of the act are precisely the same in both, the only difference being that in one case the animal is no two assuming precisely the same attitude, in the sense that no two run or walk precisely alike. As for the power of the nose, it is evident, in a great measure, on the powers of smell, it is not strange that cer- tain external appearances of the nose have come to be considered as a measure of the power of smell. Many sportsmen and authors attach undue importance to wide, expansive nostrils, inferring very plainly that such must give a good power of smell. This assumption is not found out on any tangible physiologi- cal data. With respect to the functional powers of the nose, a wide opening does not necessarily imply a good capacity. In practice, no difference which could be ascribed to its external form is observable in the average scenting powers of large numbers of dogs. Every experienced opponent of dogs having large, flat, contracted nostrils, yet possessing exquisite delicacy of scent, and dogs having expansive nostrils, with a wide opening at the base. The dogs which have the imaginary broad, expansive no- trils are rare indeed. The anatomical structure of the nose indicates that the external form is of no functional impor- tance. The internal structure of the nose consists of a thin, surface mucous membrane, which much increases its capacity of sensation. The olfactory nerves are therefore widely distributed over this surface. They do not reach to them reach to the end of the nostril, although it has keen tactile sensibility. Undoubtedly the functional powers of the nose are determined by the nerve endings and not by the olfactory nerve plexus, therefore not on the side of the ends of the nostrils. It would be quite as reasonable to assume that the power of scenting and seeing are dependent on the external size of the nose, ears or eyes. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 173 The common explanation of the origin of the pointing instinct is, that when the setter was a spawled or an improved spawling dog, he would have been trained to point at game, and to drive it into the hands of his master. The partridges and forced to lie close to the ground when he recognized the scent of them, wherein a net was drawn over them, and they were killed. This is a very plausible theory, but it is not supported by any facts. The dog was patiently submissive and conveniently near to the dog in a favourable place for the net to cover both, thus the bird could not escape. It is true that the dog hunted the partridges instinctively, that part being a matter of course. As arms improved and greater skill was combined with the use of nets, so that the dog could not only select his own prey, but also watch his own expert wing shots, there was no occasion for the setter to lie down when he scented the birds, hence he stood up his posture, and pointed at them. In this way, by means of education, spontaneously became an instinct—at least, so say the historians. In order to be particularly for the benefit of the individual himself, or the perpetuation of the species, they being sub- servient to self-preservation. That, therefore, a dog should possess these instincts is not surprising. But it is surprising how many beliefs that exist and are perpetuated on the flimsiness of assumptions. This pointing instinct is known to have existed in the pointer so far as in the past as there is any history or tradition of the breed. It was particularly strong in the old Spanish pointer; yet no theory is advanced in respect to its origin in him. It is more reasonable to suppose, and the supposition is supported by all evidence, that the pointer and setter were pointers and setters had the hunting and pointing instincts implanted in them by nature as a means to secure a food supply; thus that they became permanently bred by an im- perfect combination conducted by a few skilful trainers and a A black-and-white illustration of a dog pointing at a bird. 174 MODERN TRAINING. multitude of unskillful uses, through a comparatively brief period of time. Possibly the most important use to which the hunting instinct has been put is that of its origin. An explanation of the origin of the instinct other than that it is natural is rendered still more trifling when it is considered that the dog's teeth are not adapted for killing, but only for tearing. The same fact indicates that he is a carnivorous animal, therefore a hunter; hence hisding man's natural prey in this case is a matter of education. This view, as aforementioned, is confirmed by analogous natural methods of hunting prey pursued by other animals. The fox runs, makes his haste to and fro, steps on loose earth, and then leaps upon his prey, very similar to that of the pointer and setter, and all this without having his ancestors taught to droop to ground and have their prey killed by the hunter. The same characteristics are observable, although in a lesser degree, in the manner in which a common horse will steal towards its master, and then spring to capture and kill. Our dogs will draw stealthily, by sight, to a rabbit, a woodcock or other quarry, and spring on it that they may kill it. The most convincing proof that the dog exercises the pointing instinct for his own benefit when left to himself will only be proved by experiments with dogs who do not con- tribute to the purposes of the hunter. As to the origin of pointing, it may be said, briefly, that it is unknown, and the character of the instinct itself is so complex that no conjectures; moreover, it is as little as possible advance any theory regarding its origin as it would be to attempt to explain all the instincts of man. It is impossible to say whether its presence in an abnormal degree or its entire absence is in not necessarily any evidence of improper breeding. Inadustincts frequently appear in different breeds. Of course the strongest of all instincts, the maternal instinct, which is BREAKING AND HANDLING. 175 most uniformly present, is nevertheless entirely absent in some individuals, and present to an abnormal degree in others. The point is simply a culminative pause during which every faculty of the dog is keenly intent on accurately localizing the game preparatory to sprinting on it. There is nothing in this that is new. The assertion is that it is so. Neither the senses nor volition are suspended, as can readily be perceived when an untrained dog is placed upon a field of game. In the first place, the dog; in either instance, every motion is indicative of consciousness and an intelligent intent to capture. Every second of his time is spent in searching for the game, especially for the spring. Nearly all experienced sportsmen have seen a dog bound from his point with wonderful rapidity and accuracy, and yet he has been unable to find any such being his natural manner of obtaining a food sup- ply. By daily representing this natural inclination to spring, and by making him understand that he must use this instinct in a useful manner to his own purposes; thus, while primarily the instinct is hereditary and for the dog's special benefit, it becomes a mechanical act when exercised for the benefit of man. However, there is a transitional stage during training, when the dog may be made to understand that the purpose of the gun, wherein he may prolong his point merely as a matter of compulsion; yet the dog's perceptive and reflective faculties are not impaired. Dogs which are trained in this way are mature; they intelligence and voluntarily apply his hunting powers to assist the gun. Many intelligent acts on the part of dogs are due to their having had extensive experience of extensive experience, prove this beyond question. For the information of those who may not have had an extensive experience, a few of the acts which are commonly known 176 MODERN TRAINING. will be adduced in support of the dog's intelligent applica- tion of his efforts conjointly with the efforts of the master. When a dog is trained to run after a bird, he does so by a bit which is a fast and cunning runner, suddenly abandons the trail, and taking a circular course whence in advance of it no means is employed to bring him back to the point where he finishes it, such act is palpably applied to assist the gun. An act of similar nature is when a dog, roasting a running bird down, turns round and runs back to the place where certainty of securing a point, backs out a safe distance on the back trail, takes a circular cast and comes up end on the bird, and then runs forward again to the point where he finished it. An act of still greater intelligence is when the dog points birds at a distance from his handler, and, being concealed from him, runs back to the place where he finished it, every sign which he is capable of making, conveys the in- formation that he has found birds. If the handler under- stands his movements, he will know that this is an accomplish- ment not generally observed, first because very few dogs are permitted to exercise their best Intelli- gence, secondly because they are not always allowed to do so; thirdly because the dog who can direct his master how to hand the dog's actions if he did attempt it; and lastly, only dogs of great experience and intelligence acquire such a finished execution of this art. A common act, which shows reference to the gun, is when pointing running birds, a dog will turn his head slightly to one side, and then turn it again towards the gun, directs his acts with consummate skill that they are wholly in the interest of the gun. Many other acts could be enumer- ated showing that the dog is not merely mechanical but that the service of his master in a higher degree than the mere mechanical; but sufficient is mentioned to show that, with experience, he does so. There are individuals in which the pointing instinct is A black and white illustration of a cat curled up on its back, with its head resting on its front paws. The cat has dark spots on its fur. LEGGS AND TAIL 1 BREAKING AND HANDLING. 177 very imperfect or absent, and less frequently ones in which the hunting instinct is also weak or absent, yet these instances are extremely rare. The same may be said of the more or less freaks of mental nature as others are freaks physically. Ex- cept in infrequent instances, the instinct is displayed at some stage during the life of the animal, and its development varies greatly in respect to the age at which it devel- ops. Occasionally it is dormant until a comparatively late period. Many cases have been observed in which the showed no pointing instinct before maturity; however, in most instances it is exhibited in the first year, commonly the first two months. In some cases it is not developed until the pointing capabilities vary in the same individual at different times, undoubtedly attributable to the effects of cold, or other bodily indispositions; for the dog, like his owner, is subject to illness and his health is affected by it when, consequently, his work is irregular in quantity and quality. On this assumption that the instinct is due to education or that it needs intensifying, it has been said that it is a very beneficial act to take a precocious puppy on birds, even though they are not trained to hunt. This view is incorrect; the instinct may strongly impressed upon the puppies. The hunting instinct of the dog is not dependent on any per- sonal instruction, but it is acquired through experience. A short period does not impair it to the extreme degree laid down by theoreticians many, of whom evolve a theory from which they deduce that man's power over animals consists in the dignity of a fact in popular estimation. As a case in point, the instinct to hunt rabbits is quite as strong in the puppies of a pair of greyhounds as in those of a pair of ter- riers both are their natural prey. This instinct has been restated and forcibly represented by sportsmen and trainers through an unbroken number of generations. Constant 178 MODERN TRAINING. pains have been taken to prevent the exercise of it, and equal pains have been taken to afford opportunity to inten- sify the same. The instinct of hunting is in all animals, but hunts is just as strong in the dogs of to-day as in those of hy- gone ages. The desire to hunt rabbits appears to be, in fact, an instinct which has been developed by man, who will hunt them from an early age and, if left to themselves, will often do so as a matter of choice. Even dogs possessing indifferent instincts may be taught to hunt rabbits, and on birds will hunt rabbits voluntarily with great dash and de- termination. Their fondness for hunting them is often so strong that they will even attack a bird which is not prey of it. This leads us to the point that no breeder would under- tain the proposition for a moment that it was necessary to hunt a particular breed of dog in order to develop its instinct; nevertheless, the instinct is precisely the same in both instances, and has no reference to a meat and game, but to the chase of birds and other animals. But one part of the dog's natural prey: by education he can be taught to hunt birds and entirely ignore rabbits, or vice versa, his instincts are not changed thereby in the slightest est degree. The early exhibition of the pointing instinct is often pa- ralized by the influence of the "falsified" or "false" pointer. Some puppies will point when very young, even when a few weeks old, yet such early exhibition of the in- stinct is often followed by a failure to point at maturity and working power; pointing has no value. If there is no manifestation of it within the first year, or year and one-half, then it is useless to attempt training. If any other qualities are sufficient meritorious to promise well. Probably at some period of the second year the instinct will develop. A dog of this kind may work weekends successively under the most favorable conditions in respect to hinds, A black and white illustration of a dog pointing at a rabbit. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 179 grounds, handling, etc., and still not show the slightest indi- cation that he descended from a race which pointed instincti- vely, and with the discouraging prospect that he would not progress beyond the stage of a mere animal. In such cases, how- ever, the trainer should not be discouraged. In the human race, instances of the late development of the mental pow- ers have been known to occur. The child who has been sent to school and simple at home, show a superior intellect in ma- ture years, far surpassing their more precocious companions. This is due to the fact that when the conditions are favorable, he will jump in- stantly into a point, straighten up and strike an attitude as if he had been trained all his life. He can do this because he has easily done and such a matter of course that it will be a cause of wonder why it was not done before. After a long period of time, however, it may become necessary for him to repeat it and establishing the act permanently in its proper relation, if the handling is done properly. The dog is a very remarkable animal in this respect, which is a very rare occurrence, commonly ascribed to the entire absence of the race characteristic and often it is so subtle that even the most experienced trainer cannot detect it, as applied to all cases. Such may be the fact, and probably is at times, although, from the evident complexities of the dog's nature, it is difficult to say whether it is true or false. It therefore the most positive statement in regard to it can be but little more than conjecture. It is much more reason- able to suppose that the dog is capable of learning any de- fect, or never was present, and the dog is thereby rendered incapable of pointing or pursuing by scent, from being born with a defect or never having learned it. This is cer- tainly plausible when it is considered that many congeni- tal infirmities of the senses are not uncommon. Dogs are, in some instances, born deaf, or blind, or partially 180 MODERN TRAINING. so. Certain diseases will sometimes impair the function of scenting or wholly destroy it, dismaying the best com- mon. It is frequently observed that dogs who have made errors in work are due to carelessness or a poor nose. It can only be known by careful watching. A dog, possessing even a good nose, may make mistakes when he is not pro- viding he has good judgment, is careful, and free from ex- citement. If he will point tame chickens by sight, it is still more probable that he will point them by scent. If the pointing or hunting instinct is not exhibited in the field by pursuing game by the powers of scent. It may be mentioned that the dog's nose is very sensitive in de- tecting tamed chickens by sight about the yard should be dis- couraged. It does not, in the least, sufficiently improve the dog's power of scenting by this means. If a puppy has persistently pointed chickens by sight, the habit of so pointing becomes fixed and all asserts itself in field work. The dog must be trained to point by scent before the birds is intense, and the consequent necessity to press too closely to effect the purpose may lead to aggravating and intensifying the habit. The puppy should be con- tinued on his nose and judgment in beating and pointing his birds, which cannot be done by permitting him to point tame chickens by sight. This is a great mistake, as it is im- portant to his future work, it ends in killing poultry sooner or later, when favorable opportunity occurs, and once acquired it is a difficulty to overcome. Pointing is very easily established in the greater number of instances by actual field work on game, and all that is re- quired is to keep the dog busy with his nose. When the dog makes his points naturally, they can be gradually established and prolonged by act. It is better to let him point quite a number of times before killing birds over him, so that the act may become confirmed and improved as BREAKING AND HANDLING. 184 much as possible; for when he sees a few birds fall, smells the blood and hears that the gun will kill, he may become, in a great measure, unmanageable and abandon all attempts to pursue his game. The bird, therefore, must be kept alive, and may be entirely ignored. The determination to catch the birds or gain possession may be stronger than any fear of the shot. It is well to keep this in view, and to get him by this period without developing other faults, such as running away, blinking, grousiness, etc. If he is not wholly under control at this time, and shows signs of being so, he may become so thoroughly unruly that it will require weeks to adjust him so that he will again point with any degree of regularity. This is a very serious matter, and one to be pursued that should have been adopted at first, namely, let him point a number of times until he has some steadiness, only then should he be allowed to run free. He must be kept under restraint, thus preventing the exercise of judgment; if he is already intent on a bird being killed, shoot him down immediately. If he is not trained to kill, but is killed over a dog such disposition in his early training; on the contrary, it may be injurious, since he may run riot, looking for birds which do not exist. This is a very serious complication and trouble. This is the manner shown by the average dog; but there may be timid and indolent dogs who cannot be trained to kill at all. They must be taught at every opportunity, and even permitting them to break shot betimes. Very little assistance can be given a dog to teach him to point; if he does not point because he is afraid of being shot, if he will not show interest in birds, no assistance can be given. If he will road to a flush, he may be corrected just sufficiently to make him point; but if he does not point, prevent him from roading; still there must be some indica- tions of natural pointing, otherwise the dog is not worth the trouble of training. However, as explained elsewhere, it is I 32 MODERN TRAINING. many instances requires quite a long while to determine him. When the puppy is drawing to a point, after he has learned how to pull, he should be permitted to do so in his own manner. If there is danger that he will flush and chase, he may be given a few minutes to do so, but if he is too much and unreasonable in hurrying out of orders, and the loss of temper common to amateurs, and a few who are not pre- pared sufficiently to understand the nature of the game, on the contrary, they do too much harm. Such turbulence has its origin in the fears of losing a shot rather than in intense and ill-considered excitement. Now, in studying a dog to his point, it should be borne in mind that a short point, in most instances, will serve the dog's purpose better than a long one. The longer the dogs are kept; but by the art of the trainer, the point is pro- longed and熟练ized to serve the purpose of the shooter. In place of frequent and rapid changes of direction being used, this proper training is taught by slow degrees. If it can be done by repeated opportunities and kindnesses, such as the best method; if the dog is willing or heedless of his handler's commands, then he is ready for any kind of wildful flush. In this connection, as with others where puni- ishments are used, the trainer must observe careful judg- ment as to the time and degree of punishment. In the train- ing of the dog, for there is a similar point from the effects of punishment. If the dog is carefully watched for, if passed, then the most courageous dogs are not always successful; then there is trouble for the trainer. If the dog is extremely difficult to control at sight check- control should be applied until he cools. When he is the trainer can step on the checkboard and walk along it to him. When the birds are flushed then, the dog is under control. If he struggles hard to chase the birds, a qhike BREAKING AND HANDLING. 83 collar may be put on to restrain him. It will not only pre- vent him from straggling, but he is specially headstrong when he has been thus trained. The collar should be used once or twice, which will deter him from chasing, in most instances. If he breaks the point and flushes the birds, he must be punished with a whip, and if necessary, he should have sound and then scolded well, or whipped if necessary. Keep him down for several minutes; if man- agement is not good, repeat the process. If he is hesitant to scolding or his handler, a cut of the whip may be given; this part, as before mentioned, must be quick and sharp. If the bird is not trained to stand still of more faults in a moment than can be corrected in a month. Timid dogs, particularly, must be steadied to their work by the use of the whip. If they are too timid to be at all whipped, the whip must not be applied at all in connection with pointing. The trainer cannot be too care- ful in this matter. He must always remember that it is the first sign of indifference or distrust with reference to pointing, he must withhold all punishment until such times as the dog shows signs of being interested in his work. There is no lesson wherein it is more essential that master and dog should be on good terms than when pointing is be- ing perfected; for if the dog does not show himself simply a case of indifference or distrust with reference to his handler-slyness, always originating in fear. Unlike many other branches of a dog's education, there are several things to be done with the dog which are entirely dependent upon the dog's confidence and inclination. If he will not go to his birds voluntarily, there is absolutely no reason why he should not be trained to do so. However badly he performs there must always be a certain amount of his interest preserved; he must not be punished so much as to destroy his interest in hunting, else the train- 184 MODERN TRAINING. ending. By various little arts, applied as opportunity of- fers, much can be done to improve the dog's powers. Very little practice will make the trainer can walk from his front, or take a circular course and get near in front of the puppy while he is pointing, he will be enabled to catch the dog's attention by the scent of the game, and his strenuousness. No effort should be made to make the dog over- stand on his hind legs. He should be permitted to mi- norize his own faults, but he must be taught that his strenuousness beyond what is necessary is a fault, which will be shown by standing after the bird has run, or on a hot footprint, or when he is called away from the game. It is essential to train the dog to point at a proper dis- tance from his birds—neither too far nor too close; in the former case he will not have time to find them, and in the se- nseary trouble in beating over a large area of ground; to flash, in the latter, he will make a great many unnecessary flashe, therefore, it is desirable that the dog should be trained to distance is considered a desirable quality by many, since it is suggested that it conveys a keen nose, it is undesirable in dogs who are used for hunting. The distance at which the dog points closely, but it denotes bad judgment in the dog or unsatisfy training in the handler. To correct the fault of it is necessary to give him more exercise, and this should be given for flashes caused by pressing the breeches too closely. This will make him cautious to avoid flashing. The dog should be trained to point at a great distance requires encouragement by kindness. Gradu- ally he will acquire more boldness; and flashes which he makes on account of his fear of being caught, or of his in- tact must be exercised in applying methods, it being quite as important as method itself. The intelligence and natural qualities of the dog are important elements in train- ing. If he is loose, but is stupid and frequent errors BEAKING AND HANDLING. 185 result from his working powers being inferior to his zeal, trust to frequent opportunities to correct it; if the dog is timid, he must be taught to overcome his timidity by the aid of the whip and kindness combined; if the dog is cunning, he is necessarily intelligent; the trainer can anticipate his actions, and prevent him from doing mischief; if the dog is a kind master in a dozen ways to accomplish his purpose; when he commits an error, he will actuate a look of apparent inconsistency, and then the dog will be taught to obey his faculties. The dog which has a poor nose, or is mentally weak, should be dealt with leniently; he is blamless for his sagacity, but he may be made to understand that he is liable to punishment if properly used. The trainer, with all the punishment that may be necessary, can treat the dog kindly and fairly, and so train him that he will not be associated with certain objectionable acts, and aside from them there is nothing to fear. The dog who is fond of hunting is better to hunt him alone, thus cultivating a spirit of self-reliance and making the pleasure of finding and pointing dependent on his own efforts. The dog who is fond of fighting is one of the faults of another dog, for it frequently happens that the good work of one puppy is spoiled by the bad work of another. The dog who is fond of playing with other dogs Two partially trained dogs generally show great ingenuity in working birds in their own manner, but it is not the man- ner of the bird that they should follow. It is well known that the amateur should attempt to control at once time. However, it is desirable to give the puppy a great deal of exercise, and to make him use his nose freely. He should be fitted for field trials, as old dog which is steady, in- telligent, and free from any acts of jealousy may be worked with him to special advantage. While fast running is very fittinging to a young dog, particularly if the weather is 186 MODERN TRAINING. warm. The old dog is worked to find the briers, while the puppy is kept at home; when a boy is found, there is then an opportunity for him to learn the lesson. As often as he finds the scattered briers of the beth, he can have frequent opportuni- ties to point. However, it is not advisable to keep him under constant supervision, because this would make his work to preserve its uniformity; special work in one branch to the exclusion of others is to their detriment. No dog, however, can be trained unless he is treated to polish his briers properly without any orders whatever. This prejudicency can be established by experience and making him, as you will see, point with a certain degree of pointing. He can be assisted proudly in subordinate details, as for instance, if he rounds on the back track up what does not belong to him, he should immediately resist him; also he can be prevented from running riot, but, if he has experience in his work in the beths, he should be allowed to run about freely; but if he does not know he is certain of finish. After he has committed the fault, if willing, he can be punished for it in the same manner as for any other fault. If he does not understand the expec- tation, if he will admit to it steadily, until he becomes attentive to correct pointing. Uninstituted flukes, how- ever, show that the dog cannot be trained by constant supervision and prompting on his points, he naturally re- quires it in his work through life, and at best, it is extremely difficult for him to learn it. If he does not hear a word, out of earing, or beyond control. When trained to point honestly on his own judgment, he is just as trust- worthy as any other dog. He will follow the brier as far away as when within reach of the whip. Remember that the perfection of training is to educate a dog so that he will work to the gun without order. It should not be forgotten that the instinct to point is BREAKING AND HANDLING. 187 sometimes present, in certain individuals, to an abnormal degree. Dogs having to such a degree may be pointing perpendicularly upwards, or downwards, or by sight at any strange object, when taken afield, and are unable to be moved with difficulty or stirred; and then the next instant but to point again. A chippy, stumpy, a bright flower, rock or likely place for a game, will be pointed at, and the dog will remain having this infirmity, will point immediately after being taken out of a wagon or taken into the field. Such dogs are usually found in the West, and where the constitution is sufficiently developed if present in a useful degree, and as it is so present in the greater number of individuals, it need not be considered. Both setters and pointers stand to their points naturally, although some, having more caution than others, crouch much lower than others. The former are generally of this manner being more frequent with setters than with pointers. With many it is only occasional, as when they suddenly see a bird on the wing, and have no time to get close to the birds and are in danger of flushing, the act undoubtedly being one of concealment rather than one of excitement. This is very common among setters. It is frequently the result of too much discipline in dropping to wing, the training not remaining fixed at the degree which they have attained. The bird is dropped once or twice, drops instantly; as the habit becomes more and more fixed by constant repetition, he anticipates the rise of the bird, and when it comes down he drops instantly; or he drops two or three times, which soon leads in dropping to his points regularly. This is hastened if the handler, from fear of losing his dog's attention by dropping him before the dog on his point before the birds rise; or if he is worked hard day after day, he may drop on his points from fatigue. By far the greater number of expert breakers train their A black and white illustration of a dog pointing at a bird. 188 MODERN TRAINING. dogs to perfect stanchness. Training the dog to flush reg- ularly or under is not good training; in fact, this pernicious practice is one of the most dangerous that can be. The cub to train the dog to perfect stanchness than to teach him to flush or return order or signal, since in the former instance he is required to do his work at any time, and without his own consent with it. He may perform nicely during the first season or part of a season, but from being trained only to flush at a certain time, he will become lazy and indifferent, and at last learn to flush with pleasure himself. In shooting woodcock, ruffed grouse, or quails in thick cover, it is sometimes necessary to have the dog flush regularly; but should only be done when absolutely necessary, and stanch- ness should be made imperative at all other times. It has been said that the dog should be taught to flush regularly; this in no wise affects the injurious consequences to the dog's work. There is no expert handler but what can easily train a dog to flush regularly, and yet many do not know how but what have so taught a dog at some time, yet a few, of a class, the handlers commend it as being unnecessary, harmful and unprofitable. In this case there are a few sportsmen with whom the method finds favor, but they use it as a means rather than as a manner as enhancers their pleasure. In teaching a dog to flush, training should be confined strictly to game birds. The amateur is disposed to think that it is a gain if his puppy will point field larks merely. If the dead bird is to make the dog true finder, larks should never be shot until they are found by the dog; otherwise they should be discouraged as much as possible without punish- ment. The larks should not be shot at. By thus ignoring such work, the dog will learn to hunt for game birds and then confine his work to game birds. If game birds are scarce, almost any dog will point larks occasionally. If an aged, trained dog from taking pleasure in hunting them, BREAKING AND HANDLING. 159 persists in pointing them to an offensive degree, the whip may be literally applied at every repetition until he will blink them, the effects, however, being noted and governed with such caution that no injury shall result. The dog must be broken from hunting until one he might be broken from hunting at. By showing approval and praising him when given the scent, and by giving him the game when larks are pointed, the trouble generally may be avoided. Pointing rabbits can be corrected in a similar manner. The dog must be taught to hunt only those animals which are rare so rarely owing to the scarcity of such animals, that no notice need be taken of it. In teaching the dog to work to the point of a bird, it is necessary to show him that it is not specially implanted in the dog's nature for the benefit of some man to shoot at the pointed bird with a gun; and this is done by not presenting the act as being incomparable and meaningless. It is commonly supposed that false pointing is caused by an artificial cause, but this is not the case. The beast may exhibit the fault at times, particularly when excessively fatigued. It may be caused temporarily by several punish- ments having been inflicted on it without any real cause it is perpetuated. If a dog is naturally a confirmed false pointer, there is no remedy for it; such facility art is not acquired by any other means than by punishment or an asperal development of the pointing instinct. If it is shown occasionally, igreth the point as much as possible. Pointing rabbits are often made false pointers. The amateur invariably over-estimates the harmlessfulness of flushes in early training, generally because he is more intent on getting his dog to point than on making him hunt well. He punishes, not for the flush, but for the lost shot. If the trainer wishes to know the true value of a flush, let him leave his gun at home, and thus the cause of his anxiety 190 MODERN TRAINING. being absent, his judgment will be unbiased, and he can see how the puppy, in his experience and awkward methods, has been led astray. The dog's first reaction to a flush was not the unaffordable offence and irritating disappointment that it seemed when the gun was in hand. When the gun is in hand, the dog is trained to train and judge the merits of work as calmly and without prejudice as when the gun is absent, he has then attended to the training. He is not prejudiced by the training properly; but ordinarily it requires a long time to get the amateur past the stage where he feels a greater desire to hunt than to train. Flushing is seldom a valid fault in a well-trained dog, although it occasionally is so, yet punishment is inflicted many times on dogs who have no idea of what they are doing. Any number of conditions under which the dog is almost certain to flush. It is impossible for him to scent birds, with any degree of certainty, unless he has had some practice in cautiously round wind down, but unless he has rare judgment and experience, he will flush. If he stops at a point under such circumstances, he may be right or wrong; but his foot scent, he has seldom points under such circumstances with certainty. An intelligent dog, left to his own will, generally follows the bird until it is within range of the wind. Going across wind is practically as difficult for the dog to perform as going down wind, if the birds are straggling or scattered. A dog who has had much practice in the possibility of the scent reaching the dog's nose is sufficient to excuse him for any flubs. Every hunting experience has seen a retreating pointer or setter trotting over dead bird, while searching for it, wholly unconscious of its proximity; yet if within fifteen or twenty yards of it down wind, the dog would scent and go directly to it. Under these circumstances, the BREAKING AND HANDLING. 191 novice invariably declares that the dog has no nose, for he cannot conceive how a dog can trot directly over a bird without scenting it. This is true, but the dog does not scent with it and dissipates it over larger and larger spaces, much the same as smoke is wafted from a chimney-slop by a gentle breeze. The dog's nose is not so sensitive as to detect much more volatile; hence it is apparent that a dog, stand- ing over a dead bird, could not scent it so well as when he was several yards down wind, and this from perfectly nat- ural causes. Flashes due to inexperience are also excusable, and there- fore the novice should be allowed to make mistakes. He may be held in check for awhile, and both voice and manner may show disapproval; and then he is taught that it is a fault to allow the dog to run away. It will be found developed that he will exercise the greatest care to point so as to hold his birds; if a flush unfortunately happens, he will chase after his installations with great alacrity, which is at fault. Sometimes show the same feelings when laughed at—dogs having such sensitive natures deserve to be treated with great consideration, and their insensibilities ought not to be made the subject of ridicule. The novice is also predisposed to blame the dog for flashes which he in no wise commends. A flash may occur because of the proximity of the dog or considered sufficient evidence to blame him. At certain seasons of the year when birds are scarce, the novice may have difficulty in finding them instantly. Chickens on the prairie after the frosty nights of September, or after the high winds of autumn set the grasses in motion, are very difficult for a dog to find, and it is rendered almost impossible if the handler gives loud orders, or a laquacious companion is present. This is par- 102 MODERN TRAINING. ticularly aggravating if such companion thinks the dog blamable for the flush, which is usually what he does think. A puppy trained to hunt birds should not have birds shot to his flushes. Points alone are to be associated with the killing of a bird. Thoroughly trained dogs can be taught to hunt birds without injury to their training if kept within it, but such has no applica- tion to the proper manner of training a puppy; how- ever, as a general rule, it is desirable in all cases where it is desirable to encourage a timid or backward dog, etc., no rule in dog training being strictly arbitrary. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 93 CHAPTER XL RANGING. Ranging is the act of beating out the ground in a more or less irregular and informal manner, the dog is a great success in this mode of training. It is a noticeable fact, and one frequently commented on by sportmen, that the half broken country dogs, as a class, are excellent rangers. They have a natural advantage, and are also successful finders of game. This is not, as many suppose, from natural superiority; it is due to the fact that they have been trained in the country, under the guidance of their masters, in education. Their owners, in most cases, neither know nor profess to know anything of expert training. If the dog will pull, he will pull well; if he will not pull, he does all that is expected or required; and in respect to ranging he is left free to suit himself, consequently he works at his own pace. He has no difficulty in finding work quick to take advantage of all kinds of working opportuni- ties. From unbounded experience, he learns to seek for the hardest work, and to do it with the greatest skill. He is so excellent that he can tell a promising concom with as much precision as his master. Little sheltered nobs and bitches are often found to be very good rangers who would pass by unnoticed, he diligently searches; he knows all the wiles of the birds and how to circumvent them, tak- ing advantage of favourable conditions of ground, wood and cover, with masterly skill. He knows the daily habits of A dog running through a field. 194 birds, for during the feeding hours in morning and evening he searches through the grassy stubbles, the favorable open grounds; during the midday hours he devotes special attention to the cover. He whips around the liberty creases with his gun, and when he finds a bird in the field, of them, and he plans his work so well that the same ground is not worked twice, nor likely places left unvisited. He is ever ready to take up any new ground which offers a chance of finding birds. His range is irregular, wide or close, according to the peculiarities of the irregular grounds or prevailing weather conditions. He uses his knowledge consti- tently observed as a guide and base of operations. He exercises his memory and profits by it, since it hunted a few times in different seasons, and has learned that one very bey will and therefor find one bery after another with rare cunning and facility. He learns the variable habits of the birds, and how they change their habits from season to season, and the consequent changes in cover and food supply, and governs his efforts thereby, he learns to mark the flight of five birds at once, and to follow them until he has acquired knowledge, resulting from the experience unhampered by ceaseless training, he excels. To hunt his own limitations, aside from all consider- ations of the use of the gun, the dog needs no training by man; he merely needs natural opportunity to show that he is a good dog. The persistent hunter who does not profit from prey, he excels every other man in effecting kill. Nor are his efforts blindly impulsive; while he has experience, he possesses capacity with it address, and exhibits a keen sense of what to do with it. His knowledge, however, is acquired by degrees and is capable of change; and every experience adds more to his capabilities. The young sportsman may have a dog which quarters BREAKING AND HANDLING. 195 perfectly and is obedient to all orders, yet, when compared with a dog which knows how to hunt, he makes no showing as to his ability to do so. The reason for this is that he does not know how to quarter and obey orders, and how to find birds. The owner of the obedient dog is loth to believe that his dog is not a good hunter, but he himself criticises the disparity of performance to pure luck; yet, if he could have noticed carefully without bias, he would have seen that the dog was not trained for hunting. He was a rare judge, and that he was guided in his efforts by a full knowledge of the situation. Now, it is not to be under- stood that the dog who is not trained for hunting is a bad dog, nor that a dog which will obey all commands is such— the properly trained dog combines the excellences of both the hunter and the trainer. The fact that a dog learns by experience has been noted by many sportsmen, but comparatively few realize its im- portance in training. Among expert trainers, however, we will soon discover its advantages in practice. A quartering dog is not in the competition with a dog which ranges well on his own judgment. While the latter is ranging, the former is constantly working at his business. It is a plan to work all such places without unnecessary waste of time or effort, the former is usually hunting large areas, often over long distances; while the latter knows there are no birds. The method of developing a range at its best is the one which has been described. By means of which the applica- tion of it to work the gun will necessarily need modifying to meet the requirements of different kinds of game. It con- sists in giving the dog free opportunity to learn what it can free opportunity to learn it self, then training him to the necessary acts of obedience. The puppy, whether courage- ous or timid, needs a preliminary experience in ranging and 196 MODERN TRAINING. chasing rabbits, roosting and chasing birds within a certain period of time. In this manner he thoroughly learns the details of his work, and by so doing he acquires a sense of details and art in applying it is the perfection of the dog's hunting abilities. To learn skilful methods of hunting, he must have a good knowledge of the habits of the game, country dog, thus when hunting there is no uncertainty in his purpose or actions. His energies are concentrated in determined pursuit of the game, and he has had pre- paratory experience, which may be comparatively long or short accordingly as the dog is bold and quick to learn, or slow and deliberate in his movements. The game worker all his life. Timid dogs, particularly, require a period of self-banishment to acquire the necessary courage, ex- perience and skill. This is especially true with many cases is a necessity. With self-afraid or courageous dogs, while they do not need encouragement, they need self-hunting opportunities. They are often too timid to chase after the birds, for birds are very cunning in evading the dog, their natural enemy. The length of time required can only be determined by the individual dog, but it is essential that nity to hunt without hindrance is not to be confounded with self-hunting as exhibited by a dog which ignores the game available to him. A dog which has been trained to instance the dog is permitted to hunt by himself for his best development, but he does not abandon his trainer; in the latter, the dog is naturally eager to hunt under re- straints. It is well to note the dog's gain in progress and condi- tion, as well as his ability to perform duties. If he is used for field education, otherwise he may become abso- lutely headstrong and correspondingly difficult to reduce to submission. The amateur generally reverses the natural order of educa- BREAKING AND HANDLING. 197 tion. He tries to educate him first, and give the experience afterward, as it's given to all. A dog improperly trained in his early years will never learn to do anything well. The dog, however, may, in working, appear to be running well, but is simply ranging without any intelligent plans. He is running on all fours, and is not making use of his legs. This is a very common fault, and is likely place to another. This is particularly noticeable when he is hunting with a properly experienced dog. The infe- rior dog, who has not been properly trained, has no more motive other than to run while in the fields. The ranging may be impaired by working the dog too consistently in one direction. It is necessary that the dog be accustomed to guide his course by it, and cannot work well in any other direction. If the handler walks down wind, the dog will follow him, and if he turns back up wind, he will come close in front or behind his handler; or he may turn up wind, then turn down wind and resume his cast across, thus making a loop at the end of each cast. This is a very bad habit, and should be corrected by over-training. A few dogs naturally turn in at the end of their range. Whatever the cause, it is important to correct it before it becomes a habit. If possible, the dog should be allowed to run in every direction before being trained to run in one particular direction only so if the dog comes in, meet him with the whip, flourish- ing it, and drive him away from the point where he was standing. If he does not obey this order without injury to his work; if not, he should be ordered to drop, then turn him in the proper direction. Another faulty method, one very annoy- ing to the dog, is when the handler runs around the dog while running out and immediately returning to the handler. If the running is done in a course parallel with the handler in a large field, it is a very good plan; but if it is done next to worthless. By self-hunting experience the dog learns to hunt in any direction, regardless of the direction of the wind, or can make advantage of it, in any direction except down wind. 198 MODERN TRAINING. A dog must have a fair degree of speed which he can maintain at a uniform gait for a reasonable length of time, if he has to work long distances. The foxhound is usually only fit for woodcock shooting, or quail shooting in cover. The fast dog is the king of the field. He can be trained to work, but he must be able to run well. A good hound can be trained to work at a slow gait in cover or small fields. A dog having great powers of speed and endurance, when trained to hunt, will be a valuable asset to the sportsman. When unquestionably working with greater ease than a slow dog which is running nearly at the top of his speed, yet neither the other nor the houndman can tell that the former is more efficient merely because they are fast of foot. If a dog has a good nose, he can perform going at a high quick quite as well, as one who is slow of foot. Both dogs should, themselves, with wonderful readiness, to different ground and different species of game; for instance, a dog may be a wide and fast runner, but if he does not possess sufficient power to quickly change his methods to harmonise with the changed requirements and surroundings. But whether fast or slow, no dog can perform without being well trained. All amateurs are inclined to work their dogs too slow. When left to his own volition, the dog soon becomes a fast and accurate shot, but when left to his own choice he is often feral. The abilities of the dog in respect to fast work are well exemplified in the performance of foxhounds in the chase. A hound soon learns to adjust his speed to his powers of scent. As to what constitutes the proper scope of ranging, much depends upon the season and the kind of game hunted by the birds. In the prairies of the Northwest, West and Southwest, when hunting for chickens, a dog is not ranging too far so long as he can be seen until provided that he is working to the gun. Half a mile on each side of the wagon BREAKING AND HANDLING. 199 is not an unusual range for some of the best chickens dogs, and a quarter of a mile to an eighth is about the average. In the West, where there are round a dog cover, the more birds he will find. On quails, the same rule holds good. The more irregularly, the character of the country, the habits of the quails and their habitat, differing entirely from the common game, all these things affect the range of the dogs, and in some sections of the West and South where the grounds are rough and cover dense, wide ranging is indispensable. Necessity makes the dog's range greater than his skill would need be. The dog for any kind of ranging is not trained properly unless he has been made wide or close as desired. On scattered birds particularly, it is necessary to have him so that he is controllable within a certain range. If the dog refuses to work on a bird which is out of range, it is evident that he is not being trained properly. He may be put on him, thus affording means to control him. In hunting for beves he should be taught to turn to a note which signifies attention, and should obey a signal of the hand which follows. It is well to use the raising powers at their best, it is better, and in the end in most instances, quicker, to bring the dog under control gradually. Too much violence and haste are dangerous, but too little care in the purpose of application, is commonly the cause of delay. Few sportmen realize the dog's natural capacity to learn methods of handling birds. It is only by experience that they discover its capabilities. This capability of improvement and cunning in pursuit is common to all breeds of hunting dogs. They are capable of solving complicated puzzles in training, which the foxes, with his novel and wonderful store of resources, can construct. The foxhound in receiving his education cannot have, from 200 MODERN TRAINING. the nature of it, much assistance from his master—probably to his advantage, for, if it were possible for him to profit by accident, he would not be likely to do so. The usual foxhounds are run in company regularly, as is commonly the case, they not only learn to do their utmost in the chase, but they also learn to assist each other, which is mutually advantageous in promoting the general success. Also, they learn each other's capabilities, for a note is made a leader, and the rest follow after him, and are instantly honored with due attention. Some become so cunning as to cut across country and come in ahead of the chase, which is a great advantage, as it places a place for the pack to drive the fox back by them. Probably no one peculiar act of intelligence is so common as that of the greyhound. When two inexperienced greyhounds chase a jack rabbit for the first time, they run perfectly true, each exactly following the other at a distance of a yard. Generally, if a greyhound is in good running condition, he is a shade of two faster than the jack rabbit, particularly at the start. But when the greyhound has been trained well, he generally press the rabbit so closely that it is forced to use defensive tactics peculiar to it, namely, owing to its peculiar physical formation, to turn round and round in a tremendous speed, dodging to the right or left, and quickly starting off at full speed again. The hounds cannot turn so easily, for their bodies are too long and heavy; but they will turn in a wonderfully short space; in addition thereto, their much greater weight and consequent momentum works on their side. In this way they can overtake the rabbit together a few times, they perceive that it is decided dis- advantage and frequent cause of loss to be both thrown wide at the turns. They then learn a special method of directing their efforts in a manner which is easier, more BREAKING AND HANDLING. 201 successful, and mutually advantageous—one hound presses the rabbit at his highest speed from the start, the other hounds follow up with a steady pace, and the third hound, with ears pricked up, and keeping a very critical eye on the situation. The hound which is forcing the running soon turns the corner and in turn runs after the rabbit, and forces the pacer; the other hound has been thrown a little wide on the turn, but in general effect there has been a perfect harmony between the two hounds. One hound goes to the rabbit, and the other hound is running cunning in a commanding position waiting for the next turn; meanwhile the first hound is making a good impression on the rabbit, who is usually repeated till the poor rabbit, bewildered and exhausted, turns shorter, slower and easier, only to find that the pace is too fast for him. The second hound is playing within a few yards of it, one on each side, a cunning scheme applied near the end of the chase to drive it to car- rier's point. In this way both hounds are working well. At last turn, a hound springs forward, reaches out his long neck and head adlivese, gives a sudden tetchy at the tank, trips over it, and falls into its jaws. The other hound is in the jaws of the second hound, a victim to misplaced confidence in the power of matter over mind. In the chase, all the dif- ferent qualities of a dog are brought into play—speed, nicety. They not only learn a finished manner of running cunning, but they learn to estimate correctly and take ad- vantage of every opportunity that presents itself. For instance, the hound which is running cunning will rear high in front at proper intervals, without losing his stride or your attention. This is one of those things that I have noted that his companion has made his best sport without being able to turn the rabbit, he immediately spurs in turn and takes up the running himself. 202 MODERN TRAINING. The setter and pointer, from the peculiar nature of their prey, have to exercise even a greater degree of intelligence; yet they are often so stupid that they are almost useless, and even ineffective. Two, in chasing the common rabbits in company, learn to run cunning like greyhounds; but, after a short time, they become so lazy and careless, that they lose all useful organ, and he depends on it more and more. Dogs are very observant and imitative. If two dogs, one old and cunning, the other young and inexperienced, are put together, the inexperienced one by observation alone will soon learn all the cunning dog's tricks and their application. In the case of a dog who has been trained to hunt for any cause, a self-hunting experience with an aged dog is always beneficial. The whole superiority of the expert handler, aside from his skill as a tutor, lies in permitting the dog to develop his powers to their utmost capacities in a natural manner. Whether the dog is to be trained for a week or a month, or more, it ought not to be unloosed. In the South the greater number of trainers huns from headstock. The dog should never wander wider than its bounds when the trainer is about. Until discipline is fairly well established, two untrained dogs should not be allowed to play together. The mutual fear and disobedience of one encourages like traits in the other. If one is jealous of the other, he follows him about, and good work cannot be expected from either. The dog should be required to work on the right or left with equal impartiality as the peculiarities of the grounds require. If it is required to work on both sides of the field, to the exclusion of the other side, it is very undesirable and decreases the value of the dog's work. If a pointer wishes to work a brace he should endeavor to have them supprem each other in any work parts of BREAKING AND HANDLING. 203 their work; for instance, if one is good on coveys the other should be good on scattered birds; if one is a poor retriever, the other should be a good one; if one is excitable, the other should be calm, etc.; but both should be as good as possible in all respects. A man and a dog in a wooded area. 14 204 MODERN TRAINING CHAPTER XII. BOADING AND DRAWING. Boading is the act of following the trail of the birds, with more or less quickness by the body scent. Drawing is the act of following the trail by the body scent. This manner of determining the location of the birds is commonly performed with much greater quickness and precision than boading. The bird, when pursued in this superior manner, will scent birds at astonishingly long dis- tances under favorable conditions of wind and temperature. Sometimes, however, the bird will be so far away that he must draw straight, or nearly so, to a benty, at full or half speed, with nose high in the air. There are dogs which perform poorly in drawing, but they are not uncommon. The brilliant performers are not common; if a sportman has not had an extensive experience with many fine dogs over a large country, he may find himself unable to distin- out having seen one which performed in a brilliant manner. A dog which locates his birt by the body scent, prob- ably does so by following the scent of the bird's own speed. Undoubtedly he has the power of recognizing the foot scent and discriminating between it and the body scent; and at times, on account of his keen sense of smell, he can follow it out. The writer believes that a dog of this kind is not guided alone by the body scent in the greater number of instances. It is more reasonable to suppose that he follows the aggre- gate scent of all the tracks as if they were one trail, having BREAKING AND HANDLING. 205 thus an easy course which enables him to go with undiminished speed directly, or nearly so, to the birds. Sometimes, indeed, he will run at them with such rapidity that they cannot keep up with him; to them, his course then being slightly zig-zag, but the high nose and quick execution are always characteristic. That the dog is not only a good hunter, but also a good trainer is well attested by the analogous manner exhibited by foxhounds when in pursuit of their prey. Every hound has seen the hounds of the chase, and knows how they follow the scent, following the course with accuracy by the scent in the air alone. However, it is unquestionably true that a dog which possesses this faculty can distinguish and follow a very sensitive scent powers and can detect the presence of birds a long distance by their scent alone when the scent is strong; but when it is weak, or even non-existent, occasion- ally when a bery is fumbled, marked down, and the dog can't find to them, there being then no trail to follow; but the dog must still follow the scent. In fact, when the dog has cunningly marked the birds down by sight, which some intelligent dogs will readily do; and the novice may think that he has followed the birds by sight alone; draw by sight; hence it is more reasonable to ascertain the greater number of phenomenal performances to the refine- ment of scenting than to the mere perception of the ma- ximum, even if opposed to the common belief. Many dogs have a manner of locating their birds which perhaps deserves mention. They will often take a road with a high nose but follow the trail by feeling for the scent, and progress with more or less speed; generally at a trot. When they come to a tree or other object where they scent, they abandon the fast scent and draw directly to them. A skilful performer of this kind is an excellent dog to shoot over, and is next in merit to one that skilfully hunts for the body scent alone. 206 MODERN TRAINING. The dog which follows the trail slowly but accurately, picking out foot scent of single birds of the herd, and plodding after them until they are within range of the moral good shooting notwithstanding his painful blindness. In single hinds in warm, dry weather when the scent is poor, he will succeed in killing only one bird, while the same would be imperceptible to the dog which carried a high nose. Still, the blindness is a great objection. The most important fault of the bird dog is exhibited by dogs which place their noses to the ground, stiffling and потерering in a area of a few square yards, such as wholly or partially covered with leaves, twigs, etc., are usually realised to do their best. Often this persists in one place until the patience of the handler is exhausted. This is due to the dog's inability to distinguish accu- radely the dog's manner of roading being governed by the sen- sibility of his scenting powers and intelligence, hence he is unable to follow the scent. Another very annoying and worthless manner of roading is when the dog, from extreme cautionness, does not go to the ground at all, but remains on his feet, looking forward and left, close to the ground in the segment of a circle, sniffing the scent deliberately, and is both to move. He walks or crawls along the ground, looking at every object that stops and stifling. His fault may be due to natural over-cautionness or to excessive punishment for flashing. Birds in this state are often killed by those who are disposed to seek concealment, will run completely away from dogs of this kind. The dog cannot be called a good performer when he does not follow the scent of a bird in its own bird can run. Slow roading may be successful when the birds are lazy and indifferent, but when they become wild or restless from unpleasant weather, the slow reader be- comes a very poor performer. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 207 Much can be done to assist a dog in training by letting him alone. More dogs have their powers injured by inter- vention than are benefited thereby. A dog which roams his tracks quickly and accurately should not be interfered with in any manner; unless he abandons his course, and then only when he has been given a reason for this respect—then the order. Surely, one may be given a reason to compel him to renew his efforts in a systematic pursuit, but the dog who is allowed to roam at will, without any such reasone, develops all the abilities in him; he improves constantly. In consequence, experience is better able to do more and better work from a dog that has been left on his own hand, if it constantly has been asked and baled, he may be compared to a man who is called a potter, or both. A common fault with setters and pointers is misunderstanding the meaning of certain signals. 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By foot scent it incomparably superior to one which carries a high nose; works forth body scent makes a succession of functional powers execute it; but if incapable he will make wretched blunders. The best dogs will occasionally be found among those which are not so intelligent as they appear, which does so habitually or naturally inferior or has been badly trained. If he handler positively knows that he dog has mal no8 MODERN TRAINING. one error in roading which he is unable to correct, he should under such circumstances give him the necessary assistance; for instance, when the dog is running with his head down and the dog, making the course, runs up wind, which even aged dogs will sometimes do, the handler can give him a cast down, but this must be done with great caution, for the error; but it should be a fixed rule to let the dog learn all that is possible from his own unassisted efforts. If a dog is not trained to use good nose and judgment, he may be kindly encouraged to go faster, pro- vided that he is trustworthy in pointing, in respect to which the训instructor should be careful. In training a dog, special pains should be taken to guard against pattering, ex- cessive curiosities and irresolution, even if the dog has to be coerced into doing so. The trainer should generally impair a dog's nose, or render him useless, according to the degree of intensity. The whip is wholly useless to make a slow dog go fast, or a fast dog go slow. A dog which naturally hunts with a low nose and patters will rarely be above ordinary merit at best. The trainer should never allow himself to be tempted by making his dogs fast at all attempts at roading, he con- stitutes it as a punishment for noticing the scent at all. The practice of forcing a dog to run with recom- mended by some writers as a cure for low nose, pattering, etc., they attributing all the faults to the manner and not to the dog's constitution. This is a very dangerous practice, with a high nose all dogs must do so, as illegal as to assume that if one dog can run all dogs in any manner, all dogs can run. It is impossible to find any practi- cable method for forcing a dog to carry a high nose, thereby preventing patterning, etc.; but practically, it is a barbarity, and worthless. Truism such as is used over expert trainers and is wholly inefficient, besides being wantonly cruel, it is BREAKING AND HANDLING. 209 no part of dog training, and will not be described. Even when used, many dogs cannot read off to carry a hound, because they have no idea of the importance of the peg; the peg is removed, the dog immediately assumes his old style and habits, and as such are natural to him, they are thus retained. In giving the puppy the necessary experience in roading, it is better to work him alone if he is in training for regula- tion purposes, but if he is to be used for hunting, it is better that of training in the other main branches. If two pup- pies are worked together, there always is some jealousy in running one another down, which is very injurious to both. Even aged, experienced dogs are not reliable always under such circumstances, if in company with strange dogs. Having been trained by a master who has himself been a puppy, a puppy is fairly reliable, he may be greatly benefited by ex- perience with an honest, obedient dog. If he has had per- fectly regular training from birth, and has passed through the preparatory field work, he in most instances has learned how to run quickly and accurately; he only needs training with a good dog to learn how to hold his position correctly. It is evident that the roading cannot be done too quickly if the dog can locate his birds and point correctly. On the other hand, if he is allowed to run about without being subjugated, and therefore is without any knowledge of methods of possession of self-reliance, he learns but slowly and imperfectly; his handler holding all his attention and thus being a discouragement instead of an assistance. 230 MODERN TRAINING. CHAPTER XIII. BACKING. Backing, backsetting or backingstand, synonymous terms, is the act of stopping and standing performed by one dog when he has been called to another dog which is lying by the backing dog being generally much the same as that which he assumes when painting; yet in most instances the back is low and the dog stands on his haunches, but in some cases, which point well, back in a spirited manner; and there are occasional ones which will not back at all; others, which can't perch well, will stand on their feet. Backing, the writer believes, has long maintained, is a purely intelligent act, one in no wise insinuative. The opinion differs with many persons, who hold that the act is instinctive inasmuch as it resembles pointing, and puppies will back at a very early age; in fact, they hold that dogs have been trained to back as a dog on a point, when taken afresh. This is an extremely superficial view of the case, and also too great an assumption of what is really the case. The dog's action is not merely inertial; remarking, however, that it is doubtful whether the act of pelting itself is purely instinctive. The writer has seen more than one instance where a dog had been in experience previous to his first back, although he has seen a few which backed in the first time they were taken afresh; but such cases are rare and a large number of dogs had learned to back them, thus rendering brute without any A black and white illustration of a dog standing on its hind legs while another dog lies down. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 211 training; but such cases are extremely rare. Even in point- ing, the dog usually needs several opportunities before he will follow his master's hand with any degree of accuracy. Those who have watched puppies at play in the fields must have noticed that bucking gradually developed with expec- tation, and that the young animal would often throw up its bodies into little arches at short intervals. At first these betimes are little arches. At first they point and chase to- gether, then by degrees they learn to point or back alter- nately, and finally to run after their master. This is a good nation that is what a matter of education through many generations in the past became fixed in the dog's nature, and which has been preserved by selection. It is true that it was regularly a matter of education, nevertheless, that does not for a moment detract from the possibilities and importance of instinctive action. In "The Origin of Species," Darwin remarks: " Domestic instincts are sometimes spoken of as actions which have become inher- ited, and which have long continued and compulsory habit; but this is not true." Matters which are purely educational, and which are to substitute for instinctive action, may be observed in the case of the house which has been uniformly educated, gen- erally speaking, by the owner. The dog may have had no necessity or use; but yet it is apparently benefited thereby, so far as educational instinct is concerned. Un- doubtedly, in the case of man, there is a great deal of in- mal; but in respect to the dog, the field education is trifling compared to that which man unconsciously gives by asso- ciation. The dog learns to associate with his master; and therefore it is more reasonable to suppose that all knowledge appertaining to domestication would become inductive sooner than a few details of field work. It also is astonishing that if bucking, by education through a long **MODERN TRAINING.** series of generations, became instinctive, the other educative qualities, most of which were more uniformly and thoroughly impressed on the mind of each successive time, and in like manner become instinctive. If backing were uniformly taught there would be no show of reason in the thorough training of the dog, but the fact that it is taught by experts, backing is not generally taught. A multitude of owners own a dog, but cannot train to teach the dog back. The dog is trained to do what he is told to do, or to back when he is told to back, or to stop when he is told to stop, or to come when he is told to come, or to fetch when he is told to fetch, or to bark when he is told to bark, or to jump over a fence when he is told to jump over a fence, or to go into a room when he is told to go into a room, or to come out of a room when he is told to come out of a room, or to run away from a man when he is told to run away from a man, or to bite a man when he is told to bite a man, or to attack a man when he is told to attack a man, or to kill a man when he is told to kill a man, or to eat a man when he is told to eat a man, or to drink a man when he is told to drink a man, or to sleep with a man when he is told to sleep with a man, or to play with a man when he is told to play with a man, or to fight with a man when he is told to fight with a man, or to steal from a man when he is told to steal from a man, or to rob a man when he is told to rob a man, or to murder a man when he is told to murder a man, or to rape a woman when she tells him that she does not want him to rape her, or to kill her when she tells him that she wants him not to kill her, or to eat her flesh when she tells him that she wants him not to eat her flesh, or to drink her blood when she tells him that she wants him not to drink her blood, or to sleep with her when she tells him that she wants him not BREAKING AND HANDLING. 213 Indirect which he could exercise very irregularly at the best, and in many instances not at all, for the benefit of a man who was not his master, but who might separate and distinct from any individual profit to him, and who might interfere with his master's sport. It is equally absurd to consider a train so common, and generally considered, devised under the artificial restraint of training, as being a means of education. It cannot have its origin in training, and it is under no circumstances since it has been in use that in stating this fact can be made out. For education, since the latter is too fragmentary and is practiced during a comparatively brief period of the educated dog's life, it is impossible to say whether it is possible or not reasonable to suppose that a man would instinctively know the meaning of a language because his ancestors had, dur- ing their lives, been trained to understand it. In fact, the theory that it is an instinct, resulting from edu- cation, offers a multitude of inconsistencies, conjectures and impossibilities. By assuming that it is an intelligent act, all these difficul- ties disappear. There are many different phases which prove that the dog is capable of understanding what is bovine in mind that birds are but a part of the dog's nat- ural prey, an important fact in explaining his mode of pur- suing his prey. The dog will often pursue his prey by various methods more or less to make his pursuit of game more successful. Thus the method of pursuing a rabbit is differ- ent from that of pursuing a deer. The dog will also chase puppies when following and pointing tame chickens about the yard showing the purposes of the act. After a little expe- rience he will learn to follow the scent of a horse when as the chicken runs to one side or the other, the bucking puppies cut across the corner and cut the chicken off, thus acting jointly with greater success. This act may appear **214** **MODERN TRAINING.** amusing, but the puppies are serious, and have an intelligent purpose; if left to themselves, they will kill the chickens. The act of hunting is a very natural one with them, as they are of greyhounds, and adds to the chances of capture. Without doubt, in hunting rabbits, which are also the natural prey of puppies, they are more successful than dogs. This is because hunt- ing is as successful to them as analogous methods are to the greyhounds. They quickly learn that certain acts and indications are necessary for success. It is well worth de- note that game is present; and they learn by a little experi- ence that, by co-operation in the pursuit, they are more successful. This is a very important point, and has been adopted by foxhounds and greyhounds. Thus by noting the purposes of the dog's acts when he applies them to his own pursuits, we can see how much more intelligent man is re- sponsible to interpret them than as being for the use of man after forcing them to subversiveness. There is no doubt that these dogs are purely and ad- mittedly due to experience, namely, hacking the gun, an act more frequently observed in wild fowling beside by re- tainers. The manner in which the dogs follow the scent of the shooter signify the proximity of game, and thenceupon follows at a safe distance, drawing and backing. A varia- tion of this method is used by those who do not possess the gun and a knowledge of its purpose, is exhibited by some sentries and pointers; if the gun is placed in the shoulder, they will draw back until they meet with a scent, then back and hand in a position as if ready to shoot. This method was utilized at field trials occasionally on marked birds till the Judges were so much annoyed with it that they made it a great measure because absolute; however, it is only just to remark that trickery was confined to the few. That both pointing and hacking may be exhibited as an act of intelligence is established by many well attended BREAKING AND HANDLING. 215 caes, and is mentioned by several authors. In youthful years the author had a terrier, which was an excellent example of the power of the sense of smell, and was able to follow a scent to the back of the gun. As further showing what a dog can learn in the way of correct methods from his own powers of ob- servation, he once shot a hare with a terrier at a distance of 30 yards. He, by seeing an occasional ruffed goose shot during the squirred hunts, learned that they were also objects of pur- suit, and when he himself was called upon to shoot them, he im- proved so that he would follow the foe scent slowly and steadily, stopping on a point in manner that would not be dis- approved of by any other hunter. He also learned the characteristics of a small, pure bull terrier in size, form, pluck and general habits, therefore nothing could be attribu- ted to chance in his selection of this dog for his own use. On the trail of a ruffed goose, he was cautious, silent and attentive, which was entirely opposed to his manner of hunting geese; yet he made no mistakes from his experience. Hence, we may conclude the same thing exhibited by a bull terrier, which are commonly attributed to insti- tution in the pointer and setter, and which were performed as a matter of course. At all events, the amateur who expects to find that back- ing is a regularly developed instinct, or that the puppy will be able to do anything without much training, is likely to prepare numerous disappointments for himself. Usually there is no disposition to be trained until a lesson has been given him. This has been thus learned the mean- ing of a point, which, by the way, is very quickly. He may learn then in four or five opportunities, or four or five times. The dog must be taught to depend upon his powers of observation, freedom from jeal- ousy, and the skill of his handler; for thus dog can be ma- 228 MODERN TRAINING terially assisted by education in perfecting this so-called instinct. In teaching dogs to back, many different phases of char- acter will be exhibited—some individuals have an intense de- sire to take the point from another dog; others never ob- serve an opportunity to do so; some are very active in ex- ploring details of hunting; others again know its pur- ples fully, but do not care to observe it—and some may back when the other dog does not want to back at all. In such cases, others will back at the first sign of game made by either the dog even if the latter is restless, and some are unreliable, and a few will not back at all. The number of times required to drop or stop to a pointing dog. However, the greater number of setters and pointers can be taught to back with a false pointer, and they will do so with great uniformity in the length of time required to teach it. When the trainer is first attempting to teach the accom- plishment of this act, he should use a dog which has no idea of the dog with which it is a false pointer. Even if an aged dog, which will back honestly and well, is used, it must be kept a false pointer until it has learned that it is not going to be thereafter entirely inferior to the other's points, learning by ex- perience that they are erroneous and meaningless—thus showing that it is not going to be used as a false pointer any longer. With trained, experienced dogs, a false companion is not of any importance except for the time being, but when a new dog is brought into the kennel, what dogs to back and what not to back, according to the point- ing dog's reliability. It might be shown here by innumera- ble circumstances that every individual has his own peculiarities of the individual having them, and that there is a close de- gree of uniformity in their exercise by each member of a breed—one kind of one species builds the next similar to those of every other kind of that species all birds of a species BREAKING AND HANDLING. 317 migrate about the same time to the same latitude; be con- struct their honeycombs of the same material and in the same manner; and, finally, they may even perform the same acts performed by man. It might be shown that intelligent acts performed by one individual differ greatly from those performed by another, but this does not prove that the intelligence of the individuals; but the subject is too voluminous to dwell on its length. Suffice it to say that the dog, like man, has a faculty of learning, which enables him to acquire habits of obedience to certain orders, and to guardes between a reliable dog and an unreliable one; that he is improved in the application by experience; that the act varies according to the circumstances; that opportunities are necessary to learn it; that it is difficult to teach different dogs according to their inclination or intelligence; that it is serviceable to him a whole state, and that therefore it is useful to train him. The dog is a useful animal, and a gun. Nevertheless, if the animal has a veneration for tradition and has bad beliefs, and hence believes it instinctive, it will not adversely affect the training if he follows the directions hereinafter given. If a dog and two dogs are worked together before a certain degree of discipline is established, they will probably be more or less amenable in all branches, although, surely, they will not be so amenable as when each is separately the puppy prepared to such a degree that he will work with regularity and in under fair control, before working him in company. If the dog is trained to do something, and then is being under better control, then he has a better comprehen- sion of effects. After some time, the first lessons should be given in company, and then gradually separated. A well- trained dog cannot observe some desirable results from the act of pointing, it is meaningless to him. When the dog is pointing, the handler should call the 228 MODERN TRAINING. puppy to an advantageous position to see the point; a few opportunities should be given him to learn the meaning of it. The trainer should never attempt to force the puppy into any attempts to steal the point. These should be checked as much as possible without injuring his aurot. When he at- tempts to steal the point, the trainer should give no signal; if he will not obey them with a fair degree of ob- tanity, he is not properly prepared. If he is insistent from his first lesson, the training may begin. Put a fight checker on him. Expert trainers seldom use a checker in this branch, it generally being left to the trainer's discretion. The puppy should be kept to the rear, and the manner of the handler should be extraordinarily cautious and deliberate, while the puppy is being taught to follow the point. The puppy is an observant of the earth, and can easily follow it, and at the same time is greatly impressed by it; besides, he may unconsciously follow it when he sees that it is followed by others. When the barks are rushed and a kill follows, the puppy has observed what the point, caution and accessory results did in, and the next time, or few times after, they will be more careful in following it. He will go back, or the inception of one. If, when the handler walks forward to flush, the puppy leaves his place either with the intention of following or going back, the trainer should return and place him in the exact spot which he left. If he will stand with any steadiness, looking curi- ously at it, he is ready for lessons. This is a very good incipient luck. By repeating these lessons with a grave demeanor and great caution, the puppy is imi- tated and becomes a very good dog in all respects. It has been noted heretofore that the puppy is very limi- tive. This may be observed if the shooter while walking assumes an air of great caution and expectation in BREAKING AND HANDLING. 219 his movement; the puppy is immediately impressed by it, although the act should not be practised as a deception. The dog must be taught to understand that it is necessary to establish backing if the dog is afforded sufficient opportu- nity. Yet a few dogs will be found which are very back- ward in this respect. The reason for this is that they have not been trained; nevertheless, the lessons must be con- tinued precisely the same as if each one was the last, and would be the last, in the class. The dog must be taught to back when he is called upon to do so, and when he is called upon to back, he must be taught to back. A combina- tion of circumstances combine to favor it, the puppy may come running in while the dog is passing, or the puppy may run in while the dog is running. To purchase him is to defeat the purpose. For example, if he does not see the pointing dog until he is close on him, so much the better; but if he sees him at a distance, and his great and his canters, from a comprehension of the purpose of the act, so is stimulated, that he may stop instantly and back without hesitation. If he does not see him at all, or break it in a few seconds; but once done, it is easy to es- tablish steadiness by practice. This is the usual manner in which the beginner with a newly-bought puppies make their first back; those which are too young to learn are frequently learned in this manner. There are two ways of understanding a full com- prehension of the act of pointing will ignore all method from their intense jealousy or desire to get to the birds. With such dogs the hope is vain; they will never learn, for they will always remain on a hack, whip him. The same results are effected by fear of pain that should have resulted from experience. In order that this be sufficient to effect the purpose is all that is necessary. The dog which has no perception or interest in respect to bucking can be taught to drop when he sees a dog on point. 220 MODERN TRAINING. When it is observed that he sees the dog on point, drop him on the instant. By continually repeating this with op- portunity, his attention will be fixed upon the object, and when circumstances are favorable to back, he will eventu- ally learn to drop at sight of a dog pointing, the act hav- ing one or two repetitions. When the dog is found to be he crankly, excessively timid, sour or sulky when crossed, and will not show indications to back, it is better, if he will work well enough to be trained, to train him by the same procedure. Instead of making him a reliable backer, he may be rendered worthless in other more important branches. At all events, the dog must be taught to give up his hold of a signal, which in most cases answers all the practical pur- poses of backing, i.e., to keep one dog from interfering with another's work. A dog which is used to track puppies with, besides being reliably true in his points, should have a cool judgment so that he will not allow himself to be led astray by any noise or take any mean advantages when his handler is busy. Cer- tain individual dogs, if there are any unusual occurrences such as a sudden change of wind or a change of direction, will abandon the point, or press forward to a flush. Old dogs which are accustomed to seeing puppies trained lean to complete obedience in such cases. The dog should not point regardless of any orders or punishment the puppy may receive; yet they are perfectly obedient if they observe that the order is given by the master. After more or less effort, with very rare exceptions, all dogs can be taught to back; but there will be very irregular degrees of success. In some cases, where the dog is pointing, the act can be intended to an injurious excess. Dogs of deferential disposition will watch a self-complacent dog with close attention, particularly if it is a skilled hunter; and the moment he shows signs of game by reading or drawing, they back rigidly, and it is difficult to move them. After such dogs become fatigued, they devote their entire attention to the scent, and are unable to follow the hunter's track. It is impos- sible to see the dog point and stand still to rest. A dog which backs prematurely in this manner causes a great deal of trouble to the hunter, and is often very dangerous. The dog should be trained to hunt with a dog which backs honestly and accurately. If the latter roads or shows the slightest indication of find- ing a scent, he should be allowed to follow it. If the dog is backing dog, infer that it is a point, then backs in turn— thus they stand backing each other. After being sent on, they will not go far without stopping. This happens frequently, much to the disgust of the hunter and prejudice to the sport. After awhile, the more sensible dog learns this habit, and when he finds a scent he will not back, he probably refuses to back him at all times. If he is of an impatient disposition, such experience may make him dis- trustful of his master. He will not follow him any longer than dogs, which work correctly, rarely back each other. Point- ers are more predisposed to this fault than setters. If a setter is sent on a scent, he should not sit down on his back, he should be whipped in precisely the same man- ner as for any other willfully faulty performance. However, if he does not sit down on his back, but stands still, there will be comparatively little trouble. By neglecting little faults, the greater ones ensue, and the training is then irregular and less skilful. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 221 222 MODERN TRAINING. CHAPTER XIV. QUARTERING. Quartering is simply ranging in an artificial manner. It is obsolete in this country, but in England and other nations recognize it to the extent of giving it small value in the scale of points, but in practice it is not considered. The writer has seen dogs trained by quartering for a few years ago, taken into the open, after their final grading, which had been determined by the dogs ranging as they pleased, to see how quartering. If it had advantages, it would be differently considered in this country. In England it is said to be a very useful accomplishment, the hound, over and over again, to range his own manner of going. In this country it is wholly inacces- sary in any section, and a downright injury to quail shooting; however, there are a few who believe in the advantages for all kinds of shooting to all kinds of game. No attempt should be made to teach it until the dog has learned to take off at hunting, and has establishe dash and energy. When he has reached this stage, his range from the start, his enterprise is checked, he has no oppor- tunities to continually exercise his judgment, or get the experience necessary for its use. Before the trainer begins the lessons in quartering, it is necessary to give the puppy at least a fair consideration of the ground on which he is to run right or left, and the none of the whole which signifies attention. Such prepara- BREAKING AND HANDLING. 223 atory training is necessary to have some control over him; to turn him at the ends of his casts, to send him to the direction desired. It is absolutely essential that the dog be well trained in the use of his nose, so that he can follow the scent of the man, and, quartering, contrary to the common belief, can only be practiced when the handler walks up wind. Under such conditions, the dog will follow the scent with the utmost precision. Any attempt to enforce the method when the handler is walking down wind is merely suicidal. At the end of his casts the dog is supposed to turn up wind, hence when the handler is walking down wind the dog is represented as turning up wind. This is a fallacy, and one which arranges his quartering. If the handler directs his course across wind the matter is still worse, as the dog must then run against his own scent. Theoretically, quartering is when a dog takes his casts at right angles to the course of his handler, each cast being parallel with the other. In practice this is rarely possible on a course. The distance between the parallels is supposed to be about the length which a dog can command with his nose. Hence, if a dog has been quartered by a man walking at arbitrary distance apart at all times—when the scent is good they may be wider; when it is poor, they should be narrower; and when it is neutral, they should be equal. The method of teaching it is very simple, to wit: The handler walks up wind invariably; he turns the dog off to the side of his course, and keeps him there until he has reached the end of his cast. When the dog reaches the end of his cast, a signal of the whistle is given to turn him; when his attention is caught, he turns back into his course and continues to walk with him in the right direction across wind. By also walk- ing in that direction while giving the signal, it will assist to start him right; when he takes his cast correctly, resume 224 MODERN TRAINING, the course up wind. It would seem to be an easy matter to teach a dog to quarter, after reading the instructions of authors, but it is not so. The dog must be taught to take right angles to his handler's course. As a matter of fact, the first attempts will be far from accurate, and will have very little resemblance to the result which experience and investigation attain. He will slowly learn this. The training consists in holding him constantly as near as pos- sible to the line of his course, and keeping him on that track until from the very force of habit he follows them without any assistance or direction from his handler. After the dog is going well in this respect, he may be asked to change his course when at work--the quartering dog which will quarter or work well in any direction is so extremely rare that he does not affect our rule in the latter. Now, if we wish to teach a dog to train his dog to such a degree of refinement in quartering that he can sit on a fence on the windward side of a field, cast his head in a straight line no more than 30 degrees off the line of his course, and hold him to him, as is described by some authors, he is leading a very forlorn hope. In about nine cases out of ten, when the handler turns the dog into a quartering position, the tenth dog is generally deficient in sense or experience. Abstain once in a lifetime the average sportsman who owns the average dog from attempting to train his dog to quarter, and he will have consideration enough to hunt a field while his handler sits on the fence. However, it is hardly worth his while to attempt training a dog to do this except under circumstances for be will be disappointed. In teaching brance to quarter, it is necessary to teach the dog directness and accuracy. This is not always evi- dent if one dog is difficult to train to 8, two or one time would be immensely more so. Some writers advise that an old dog be started with a young one to teach him BREAKING AND HANDLING. 225 quartering. It would be just as reasonable to suppose that an inexperienced man could learn how to shoot by simul- taneously handling two dogs at once, and that the same things which both man and dog must learn from their own individual experience. When a dog is so liable, he may be run with a brace mate which is equally so. Here a variety of complexities may arise that could not appear when working singly. One of these is the case where the dog is not only a good chase for one consequence; but may defer entirely to the other and follow him about constantly, which act spoils the brace work. This is a very common occurrence, especially when other than the owner, which also impairs the value of the brace. A brace work should perfectly independent of each other, and not depend on any one dog for its success. The master must take wider parallels than when working singly, so that they will not be closer than their noses can command. Or one dog may be placed in front of the other, or behind his handler of his handler, a line ahead of the latter in the direc- tion of his course being the point at which the dogs turn. Thus, if the dog is to turn right, he must be kept on the left side practically, the handler should only strive to approximate to it; if he can do so he does well. The more a dog is trained to make the dog develop a ra- tiole of dispositions; he may take a short cut on one side and a long one on the other; he may turn up wind at one time and down wind at another; he may change his course to his handler at regular intervals, perhaps at every cast; he may in the middle of a cast take a turn to the rear of his handler; he may go round in circles, or in an oval, or in cir- cular tact; in fact, there are great a variety of whims which he may exhibit, but the aforementioned are the most important. As mentioned under the head of Ranging, one should be 225 MODERN TRAINING. excellent where the other is weak, thus both combined should have all the advantages of thoroughness. The disadvantages incidental to quartering are as follows: If the quartering dog has hunted on certain grounds during a whole season, he must hunt them day after day in the same form, and at the same time. Under these circumstances, the haunts of many beasts are, but the strict formality will not allow him to follow them. In such instances the quartering dog is a disadvantage in comparison with an intelligent ranger, but after the first day's hunting on certain grounds, the former cannot compete with the dog, who has been trained to follow his scent. In consequence of the irregularity of grounds or the varying haunts of the birds, the quartering dog must work over large areas, and this is very fatiguing. Moreover, he is often over, from being constantly held down to set forms of ranging he cannot exercise his judgment independently, therefore, he is less useful than a ranger who can approach the performances of a ranging dog as de- scribed under the head of Ranging, although he may have equal natural powers of scenting, and be a substitute for intelligence, but in this case they are a failure. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 237 CHAPTER XIV. DROPPING TO WIND AND SHOT. In teaching the dog to drop to wing or shot, the whirr of wings, the sight of the flying birds of the report of the gun have precisely the same significance as an oral command. When the dog is taught to drop to wind, he is given intimation with reference to these circumstances. The same care in teaching prompt and full obedience to any other command must be exercised in teaching him to drop to wing or shot is an unnecessary accomplishment—in many respects it is disadvantageous and injurious. It is much overrated and exaggerated by some writers. Dropping to wind prevents the dog from chasing or breaking shot when the gun is fired. Theoretical writers overlook the fact that if the dog is taught to drop to wind, he will not be able to steady or order; furthermore, it is much more trouble to train a dog to drop to wind and shot regularly than it is to teach him to obey an oral command. The difficulty is the ornamental finish which it is supposed to confer on a dog's work. Dropping a dog to shot or wing may be made easier by training him to follow his master's lead, and then only in obedience to an oral order or signal of the hand. The art is a disadvantage if the dog is reticent; for it is apparent that he, when dropped to shot or wing in sedge grass or cover, cannot mark the fall of a dead bird, or the flight of live ones. Some intelligent dogs comatose by A black and white illustration of a dog in a field. 228 MODERN TRAINING. dropping, then instantly raising up in front and peering over the grass to mark the live or dead birds—when they accompany the hunter, and when he is not in the act of shooting, but stillly tillor ordered on. The act is particularly objectionable and injurious in cold, rainy weather, on marshy or muddy ground, and in wet or muddy water. It is also dangerous in cold water, snow or mud; if under the circumstances the act is insisted on, it is an abuse of a faithful servant, and a degradation of his master's character. The proper training of a man's mind is usually instilled on by owners who have their dogs trained by professional handlers, it being considered both useful and necessary to train them to do all things possible, so far as usefulness is concerned, need not trouble himself with it. If dog is to shoot at shot, and wing a target at a proper time, it must be taught during the latter part of the dog's training. There are many things which are necessary to consider and seek for the best results. In order that the dog may be gungsy, he must have learned to point birds steadily, and must have no fear of them, or the gun, or his handler. To attempt to teach him to run the chances of having a blinder or a distressful dog. If the dog is properly trained so that he is not afraid of the whole thing, and has learned to point birds steadily on the shoulder, no precautions need be taken against cul- ning away; if not, the same precautions may be taken as with a bird dog. The dog must learn to shoot at any time; a dog to drop a cut of the whip on the shoulder are now manifest. It is all the order that is needed, and being trained properly, will always do what he was trained to do. If not trained to do it, the whip always has a tendency to make him run away, at least to distract his mind from the real purpose, and has no more meaning than a whipping in general. Eventually the same associations must be estab- BREAKING AND HANDLING. 229 Bashed, but it will be done in a more irregular manner under less favorable circumstances. There is no better exercise in training the horse by: first, it is harmful. The closest observation must be exercised to teach him to drop and not incidentally injure his other parts; also to avoid teaching him unintentionally to drop on his head, which is a very dangerous thing. It is natural, but it is equally true that the greater number do it from education, the litter of course not being so intended, nor so as to effect such the dog as the trainer may ap- ply it. Every time a bird is flushed into the dog's path, the ordinary course of business occurs either unintentionally or otherwise; the trainer drops him by oral command or signal. Fre- quent opportunities occur when the trainer can walk up behind the dog and give him a command or signal, as he does the ruse; this must not be done too frequently as the dog drops when he hears the handler walk up, and this must be avoided. The dog must be taught to drop at any time, but trained properly in his preliminary yard breaking, he will drop instantly to a cut of the whip. He soon learns to associate the act of dropping with the rise of the bird, and the intermediate element, c.c., the whip, can be left off when he drops. When he does not drop at once upon com- mand, signal, or the whip, he will, after a longer or shorter time, learn to drop voluntarily. Occasionally, however, some of these dogs will drop to wing when they know that the trainer has the advantage, and will refuse when they have it. Severe punishment is then necessary. The dog must be taught to associate pe- riodically to impress it on their memories in connection with the punishment. The training should not be so strict at times when the 230 MODERN TRAINING. dog is greatly fatigued. He may learn that it is a comfort- able position, and for that reason alone may adopt it on his points. He may also learn to drop to his points without any teaching; furthermore, what with drooping to his points when excessively fatigued, dropping to the an- ticipated point when excited by the sight of the opponent, and finally, when he has been repeatedly flinched, there is always a probability that the dog may eventu- ally drop to his points habitually; and when he once does so, it is permanent. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 23i CHAPTER XVI. TURNING TO WHISTLE. In most instances the dog learns readily to turn by observing the purpose of the whistle, if the same notes in the same order are frequently used. When first teaching the dog to turn, the whistle must be given at the same time that the trainer gives the signal, walking at the same time in the direction in which he wishes to go; the dog will then follow him. The trainer must take the course desired. By repetition the dog at last learns the meaning of the note on the whole. There should be a distinct note for each direction, and another note which signifies attention so that the handler can give a signal by hand to order the dog in any direction he may be required to go. It is a distinct note when he signifies that the dog is to come. But some dogs are self-willed, and will not obey obedience when they are called by their names. The better way with one of that kind is to force him to instant obedience. Take him into a securely enclosed yard, put a spike collar and a stake in front of him, and say "Come." He will run back to the dog and forth. Each time he turns, he blows the signal to turn, jerking the dog around at the same time with his hand. This should be done ten times, but the lessons, which should be about ten minutes in duration, ought to be given regularly each day until he will turn promptly without force being used. Then the col- 37 MODERN TRAINING. It may be disagreeable with the lessons conducted in the yard until he will obey the commands. If he refuses to go out to a signal of the hand, force may be used to com- pel him. The writer, by this method, has trained dogs to perfect obedience, but it is not recommended as a general rule. To put them under restraint was to induce a spoli of sulki- ness. They were determined to either work in their own way or not at all. The dog was made to understand that if he did not follow his master's orders, they would be scattered, and forcing them to obedience, a superior finish was put on their education. If the dog goes into a corner and sits down, the trainer takes his hand off and thernporend draws the dog with the whip. When he learns that he cannot be disobedient, his sulness will gradually disappear. After these lessons, it is better to leave the spike collar on him for a few days while in full work. The presence of a wire fence or other obstacle will prevent him if it were absent, he would refuse to obey; besides, it is ready for instant use if he should presume on changed surround- ings to escape from his master. A dog must be taught to obey, and should not be used if dogs can be otherwise taught; but the setter or pointer does not live that cannot be forced to obedience, if it is properly and persistently applied. The trainer, if he applies the proper methods, will find no till obedience becomes habitual, until the demeanor should be calm, and no loud orders given. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 233 CHAPTER XVII BEACH WORK. Brace work, in the formal manner in which it is practised in England, finds no favour with American sportsmen. A dog that is a good brace worker is a good worker of all dogs, be they ever so good individually. Necessarily a dog cannot show all his traits when working singly, therefore his expression will be less than he would be under usual trial. To be desirable, the dogs of a brace must be as nearly equal in speed as it is possible to have them, i. e., being able to run at the same pace as the other dogs, but their individual qualities will detract from their value, since one dog will be doing all the work. They should be nearly equal in style—if one is slightly better than another, it is not considered pleasing. A matter of prime importance is that they should work independently. As mentioned in Ranging, one dog should never be allowed to follow another too closely, this is a very rare occurrence to find, even among the best performers, dogs which are good in all kinds of work—good racers, good jumpers, good field workers, etc., etc., having good judgment, speed, range, intelligence, endurance and honesty. Of course it is desirable to have both dogs working together, but it is not necessary that they should not be specially detrimental when a dog is working singly, but for brace work the training must be thorough. Each dog should be trained to turn to a different note of the same wheel, so that interlock will be avoided when 234 MODERN TRAINING. it is deemed to turn but one; and in a similar manner, with other commands, to make the dog perform a separate whilst and note for each dog, thus varying both the sound and note; but this is hardly necessary since the dog can readily dis- tinguish the difference between the two sounds. In addition to these there are individuals which differ in their perceptions of sounds—if trained to but one whistle they will turn to the sound of that whistle only, while those who do not respond cannot be corrected, and therefore somewhat impair the dog's usefulness for brain work. Each of these dogs must understand his name, and none other. If one dog is called by the name other dog must not be permitted to respond to it he is disposed to do so, and this is a great disadvantage. The dog must be capable to distinct handling and undisturbed effort when working jointly as when working singly. What is a dog's name? It may be made a per- manent and unlawful law that only one dog is to retrieve and he not till ordered. If they are at all unreliable in this respect, it is a great disadvantage. This is a very useful end, as well when there is a lesson in correct retrieving. This plan can be pushed in the ground with the foot, and one dog the other being ordered to retrieve him back to his place and whip him keeping him on the depp. One dog then the other may be required to follow him, and this is a good exercise for the standings being required of the dog which is not retrieving. This must be persisted in till the prescribed deadli ness is established. The dog may be trained to retrieve as a branch by simply looking intently at one person, quietly speaking his name, when a bird is killed, he will spring forward and take it. He may also be trained to low. They can be trained to even greater nicety—either one which the handler looks at and gives the slightest signal BREAKING AND HANDLING. 335 to, with the forefinger or a slight inclination of the head, or other slight sign that the dog can see, if it has been associa- ted with the word "go" by a command. The dog will then go steadily; the other dog will be perfectly steady. It is im- portant, in giving a signal after this manner, to catch only the dog which is going to obey, and to let the others pass. The trainer should catch the eyes of both dogs at the junc- ture when the signal is given, both would certainly bound for the same object, but one of them would stop at the signal control, would not stop until the bier was reached. The dogs, when at last, can be trained to the same de- gree as those described in the preceding chapter, and this is a sufficient reason to send him on. This can be taught so thoroughly that the handler can train a dozen or more dogs at once, and get them all to heel, and go out, one at a time, as their names are spoken. No neglect of any formality in brace work, such as back- ing up, turning about, etc., is necessary. If a dog is found to missed to pass without a reprimand, it rapidly goes from bad to worse, and this loose work will adversely affect the work of the dog. By far the best method of working the dogs in this coun- try, at least where spottises are vigorous, al-dog-hunters, is to keep them constantly in motion. By this means, by alternating in the work, uniform effort is maintained throughout the day with less fatigue than if both are worked continuously. The dogs are kept fresh by being exercised, maintained by keeping one fresh dog working constantly, than by two which are run long after they are thoroughly weary. 16 236 MODERN TRAINING. CHAPTER XVIII GUNSHYNESS, WHIPHYMENY, BLINKING, AND, FREQUENTLY, BOLTING, ARE ALL CAUSED BY FEARS, BECAUSE THEY ARE INTIMATELY RELATED ON THE PART OF THE DOG TO THE HUMAN BEINGS WHO TRAIN HIM. Gunshyness. In some instances, is by a few sportsterns, supposed to be hereditary, but the writer, in a somewhat exte- rior view of the subject, has been able to observe several cases of gunshyness in dogs which could be said to have the falling from inheri- tance. The chief cases are errors in giving the dog his first exercise after he has been brought home. This is very com- mon to inexperienced amateurs, and a few who are not inexperienced; and it also may be caused by many inherited infirmities. The writer has seen dogs so degenerated by bad breeding. In cases where dogs have degenerated through many generations in this respect, they are timid and easily alarmed at the approach of a gun or other noise. A gun or other noises is simply peculiar to the degenerated nervous system in each individual, and not to an inherited fear. It can be said that the dog is not afraid of noises indifferent to all other alarming noises, generation after generation, it might then fairly be inferred that the gun- shyness is due to inheritance. But this is not true. Dogs such is not the case; they are fearful of all alarming noises. The writer has seen dogs which, when in a room where a clock struck, would bolt out of the door or win- dow in the extreme of fright. The skin of a dog, the BREAKING AND HANDLING. fall of a broomstick, or other unusual sound, would pro- duce like result. It is hardly necessary to add that they were generally trained by the owner himself, and that, if the fault, is mistaken for the fault itself. Unquestionably, dogs of such character are predisposed to gungshyness, but no matter how much this is admitted, they are predisposed to many other annoying traits. Frequently good dogs are unnecessarily made gungshy by mismanagement. The dog is often subjected to the imperfection of the dog. Very few cases, if any, are known where the trainer was admittedly blameless. When he has been so, it is usually because he has been a safe estimate that four cases out of five are caused by bad management, consequently could have been avoided. Only one case of gungshyness in a dog with a gun is under the most adverse circumstances. The owner takes the dog out, for the first time perhaps, to a strange place, and the dog runs away from him, and stands sternly at the door, shows Shout, and fires, not improbably with five drums of powder with a ten horn. The dog seems to be afraid of fire, and when he sees the burnt powder, he panic-stricken and bolts—the owner shouts loudly for him to come in; when the dog is caught snouter of his own accord. This is a case of a dog being taught insuffusion of whips, spike collar, and irascibility. If then it can be learned that the dog had an ancestor which was afraid of fire, and that this fear was transmitted by the imagination, for a learned and lengthy public let- ter on hereditary gungshyness, whereas the production finds its origin in the same cause as that which establishes a reputation as a close observer and astute re- soner. Such a case may apparently be overdrawn, but in the main features it happens frequently, the hereditary failing not being in the dog. In view of the fact that a re- 138 MODERN TRAINING. spectably large number of men have a strong talent for dis- veloping large numbers of objectionable traits in all kinds of dogs. It is a fact that many dogs are so vicious and so cruel that they are non gunshy; indeed, it is strange that more do not die violent deaths from the carelessness of some sportmen. Gunshy- ness is a very common fault in dogs, and one which can be made gunshy, even if he has good nerves. Many men will flinch when a careless companion is shooting; in fact, when a man is a shot dog, a whole flock is four in his commodious and decent. Occasionally a dog will be met with which is so exces- sively gunshy that it cannot be used for any manner of pur- pose. It is safe to presume that there is no case of incorrigible gunshyness in any dog free from natural mental infirmities. The majority of these cases are due to bad training, but they were simply incurable so far as the trainer had made his efforts, hence were incurable only by assumption; of the time spent on them would have been better spent would have been no doubt of success. The writer never saw but one case of gunshyness which he thought incurable, although he was convinced that it could not be cured. After working months on this case and exhausting every known means to alleviate the fears without the slightest visible improvement, I gave up the idea of ever curing him. Had this view been favored by subsequent circumstances, it would probably have been something toward supporting the view that the dog was incurable. But unfortunately, unfor- tunately, during the following season, the dog was kennelled on grounds where there was a great deal of trap shooting and its owner was a very experienced shot. The shoot- ings also undoubtedly assisted in promoting the cure; for a dog can become habituated to expect certain disagreeable sensations under certain surroundings and conditions. Frequently, for this reason, a change of handlers and sur BREAKING AND HANDLING. 239 roundings is beneficial, the unpleasant memories associated with the handler sometimes lasting long after the fears of the dog have been removed. The methods of treating cases which are more or less developed generally differ from each other with different dogs, but all agree that the same degree of gushyness, or can be made to be by slowly the same means. Cases which seem to be simple and quickly curable, easily cured may end up being very difficult. In some circumstances, such as the killing of a bird with the gun, where the dog is afraid of the sound of the gun, his natural intelligence, disposition and observational powers of the dog are all important considerations of the method of cure. The dog is crossed and becomes quaking, or oblivious to all external stimuli. We have seen cases where there is no method but to shoot persistently until they be come habituated to the noise. There are individuals which are so sensitive that they will not even hear their own return and return of their own volition, or remain away at a distance at which they feel safe. The severe methods are indicated only when there is no other way out of a circumstance, except that a checkboard may put on the dog to keep him from running away. It often happens that an animal is so sensitive that he will not go into any effort, loses his temper, then adopts the treatment sanctioned by immemorial usage, which is a sequence to his superior courage and confidence. This is a case where breaking a dog for being afraid is not a reasoning method. Every effort to gain the confidence and affection of the dog by the use of food or other means fails. I personally give him a run in the fields every day. Everything that tends to hold his confidence, or strengthen his self-confidence, is no much gain. 240 MODERN TRAINING. Shooting over the points of a gunshy dog is extremely unwise. While it might cure him in one lesson if he is not very gun-shy, it will only make him more so, and may cause him to blink his birds by associating their presence with his other fears, and then there is a discouraging com- bination of factors. The correct demeanor of the trainer adds greatly to the success of any method. He should affect the greatest su- periority over the dog, and this can be done by making the dog be noticed, and spoken to kindly. Any notice taken of him at the time of the firing excites his apprehen- sion, which is a great source of fear to him. By this course the unpleasantness is dissociated as much as possible; therefore, looking intently at the dog and giving loud, cheerful words of encouragement, will help to impress it on him that he is the direct object of the pro- ceedings. Running away is an aggravating evil which ought to be avoided. The dog must learn to judge for himself, and judgment which is not excessively gungy, the trainer can take some chances in this respect. The dog who has a strong phobia against noise is the most difficult to cure. No persuation will arouse his atten- tion. Shrinking into a small compact, even on bare ground, appears to be a natural instinct in such cases. The dog should be tied in an open yard where there is not the slight object to conceal him or give him a feeling of conceal- ment. Then when he sees the gun being loaded and explodes percussion caps deliberately and at regular intervals, at about a distance of fifteen or twenty feet away from him, taking aim at a point in front of him, and repeating it and repeated day after day regularly until a cure is ob- tained. A dog cannot remain in a state of perpetual fright; yet a great deal of time may be consumed in curing him; if he is not unusually prompt, he might not be worth the trouble. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 241 As the dog becomes accustomed to the noise and shows less apathy, he may be petted and given a piece of meat between his paws. This will give him a sense of security, and a light checkword will be a gain. By taking advantage of little circumstances he will gradually become accustomed to handling, and will soon learn that it is no harm to him. A favorable position for him to see it fall, it may destroy his fears, and the keener interest may supercede them, thus exciting him to greater activity. To train a dog to catch a bone, or to retrieve a dog to the gun, a pistol is the better arm to begin with. A dog which does not become apathetic from fright is in most instances easily cured. Tie him in a yard as in the preceding instance. If he straggles at a report of the gun on the ground, do not punish him for this. After a few lessons his fright will become less and less, when he may be petted and given pieces of meat or other pleasant objects, and then he will be led into various places at different times. When given the lessons repeateedly in a certain place at a certain hour, he is frightened before he has time to think about it, and so learns the unpleasant association. Constant deliberation, kindness and calmness are indispensable to the best success. Dogs are often taught to fetch by being rewarded with certain dogs. If one of this kind refuses to come out of his kennel, do not disturb him; take the food away and do not give it back until he comes out himself. In this manner he will learn this treatment until he will come to his meals, which he is almost certain to do after missing two or three. At first he may refuse to go out of his kennel, but then he will soon learn that the shot is a signal for his meals. All amateurs hurry too much in this method. They shoot during the meal and between meals, promiscuously, thus keeping the dog in a state of constant fearfulness. The 744 MODERN TRAINING. greater number of cases can be easily cured by deliberation and tact, if the dog is apparently cured by harsh treat- ment, it is probable that the treatment could have been cured much quicker by kind treatment. If a dog is intelligent and free from nervousness, but little more than average in size, it will require a longer time to be required to effect a permanent cure. A few small birds killed with light charges, shot under conditions favourable for him, and allowed to run away, would be a good checkboard should be kept on him at the start, so that if evinces any disposition to run away. If a operator wishes to train his dog himself, it is much better to refrain from any partial training. Train- ers much prefer to have a dog solely free from any experi- mental attempt to train him. In this case, however, there are always a number of objectionable traits developed at the same time, which overbalance the little which is taught. A trainer must remember that the dog is not a machine and to be partially broken; and if he is not short of hesitance, he will probably refuse him if offered, experience being taught him that he has no chance of success. Blinking, or the act of avoiding birds, is not infrequently associated with gushiness. Excessive punishment for flushing out birds may cause this habit to develop; and it also may cause it. The trainer thus effects unconsciously what he purposely effects with respect to rabbits, chickens, sheep, etc., by giving them too much punishment. It is so seriously fearful that the whirr of wings alone as the beryl rises will cause fright and blinking. Instances are known where dogs have been trained to flush out instances, and others would yelp and bark in a delirium of fright. Blinking is simply bird-dizziness—the dog is afraid of the birds, and avoids them as much as possible. There is a form of blinking which is extremely rare, although it MODERN TRAINING. 243 can hardly be called blinking in the proper sense of the term. The dog, from impatience, great nervousness, or fear, may blink his eyes, but this is not a sign of weakness on his part, nor does it indicate that he has no control over his handiwork. It is only when he has lost all self-control, and is unable to handle his prey, that he blinks. In such cases, however, it denotes a faulty understanding in the dog. It would be beneficial by overturning a certain extent so that he might have a chance to see what is going on. If the dog is scattered birds with a checkboard on, and making him remain until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. By making him understand that he must wait until the birds were killed and retrieved. Blinking is one of the worst, if not the worst fault in a field dog. It is generally called slowly and with difficulty At times it is so slow as to be almost imperceptible, but in any case it is a fault which should be corrected at once. In many cases where the dog is not trained properly, it will blink at anything which approaches it, even though it may be only a stick or a piece of wood thrown at it. The dog should be taught to blink only when it sees something which it cannot possibly find out of reach. When a dog is known to be shy of birds and runs all day without apparently finding them, she should be watched very closely. Unless the novice watches with the most careful 744 MODERN TRAINING. care, he may not notice anything unusual, and would con- jecture that birds were scarce or the dog had not found any. The dog will then become discouraged, and will not hunt, unless he happened to run into a bury where the wind was unfavorable. The most unmitigated kindness must be shown, sometimes giving him food, sometimes giving him will restore his confidence; sometimes giving him opportu- nities to chase rabbits, or to flush or chase birds, will have a like effect. The dog should be made to understand that by permitting him to eat the sallets will sometimes stimulate his desire to kill. If the evil is corrected, the subsequent training will be much easier. The patience and affection should be dispensed upon to complete it. If the dog is excessively timid, take an unbroken dog with him on a walk, and let him see the dogs and rabbits and birds. If the handler's presence is a source of dread, it is better to give him free opportunity to sell hunt or chase birds, than to keep him in a cage. This will clination to chase when they hear other dogs open on a trail. If the dog is persistently distrustful of his handler, a change in the method of training is necessary. The better way is to avoid the fault by careful training, which can be done in most cases. The trainer should not always cover up the faults of the dog, but should show what the dog considers he applied it for. If the trainer whips the dog for flushing or chasing, and the dog, con- stantly doing so, becomes afraid of punishment, after a time, them, the trainer necessarily must govern his methods there- after by the dog's peculiarities. Usually an experienced handler can make a good dog out of one who has been unsteady and blinking, and modify his treatment accord- ingly. Just one whipping too much, or a gun fired at an inappropriate juncture when the dog is most or few guns, may entail weeks of the most tedious training, since BREAKING AND HANDLING. 245 the dog must therefore be treated with unvarying kindness without reference to the good or ill he may do. Perhaps he may follow reluctantly at dead day after day, in which case it will be necessary to give him some food and water to assuage his fears. It may be necessary at last to give him whole birds to eat, or permit him to tear the head off while he is still young. The dog has a natural tendency to spoil his retrieving, but at times there is only the choice between a spoiled retriever and a spoiled dog. Therefore, if the dog is always so corrected, hence it is better to avoid them. Boating is the act of running away completely; the dog just runs away from his master, who does not pursue him within a reasonable time; and the handler has lost all con- trol of him. It is the worst form of running away. It is certainly the most dangerous, because it is caused by a desire to be disobedient. This fault should not be confounded with self-hunting, since in the latter fault, the dog runs away from his master, but returns again to him and returns at times to learn the whereabouts of his handler. When a dog runs away, he generally returns home; sometimes he runs away for a short distance and then may return after awhile; sometimes he goes miles and miles, traveling day after day. In training there is a great dif- ference between these two faults. The former are individuals which will run away on the slightest provoca- tion; either will not run unless unnecessarily punished, or they will run away when they are not wanted. The latter again will run to a safe distance and begin self-hunt- ing, and may refuse to pay the slightest attention to him for several days. There are many different degrees of running away. There is no part of training that requires greater tact than catching a runaway dog, providing he does not bolt, this act being un- 246 MODERN TRAINING. controllable. It may safely be laid down as a rule that a hunter on foot or horseback, in a rough country, cannot accomplish his work without the aid of a dog, and that the intention of stopping him is to increase his alarm or stimulate him to greater exertion, and in the chase it is easy to see how much more effective the aid of the trainer will succeed better if he assumes an air of unconcern, although he should watch the dog closely and correctly to see what he does. The dog must be taught to follow the will of the hunter at that instant the trainer turns and walks in the opposite direction. In most instances the dog will follow casually, but if he is not so trained he will run away or resume hunting. If he will not come in, the trainer must use a little artifice—sit down where the dog can see him and proceed with his work. If this fails, and if there is another dog along, the trainer can make a great demonstration of petting him or playing with him, thus ex citing the dog's curiosity. This will usually induce him to follow and the desire for approbation that a dog will at times come in, even if he has just apprehension of punishment. If he will not come in, the trainer must not be too excited by carrying off with a stick, or by chasing an imaginary rabbit in a direction away from him. What ever measure is taken to excite the dog against his wishes and unconcern toward the dog should be affected. Any attention paid directly to him catches his suspicion and hastens his departure. The hunter should always keep his gun ready at all times when he keeps at a safe distance from his handler, yet will not run entirely away, some order, such as Go on, may be given to him. If he runs away from his handler in this manner his mind may be diverted from running away; shortly afterward he may forget all about it. If the dog runs out of sight and does not return in a reasonable time thereafter, the report of the gun will frequently BREAKING AND HANDLING. 247 be efficacious in bringing him in if he is fond of hunting and is not gumpy. The same artifice is not to be practiced too long, because it may be dangerous to the horse, especially if the spike collar, and bring him back to the place he ran from, even if it be five miles away. Lead him back and give him a good feed, and then let him have a little exercise, which will be pleasant as possible. A few lessons in obedience to the command "Come in" can then be given. It is not advisable to carry out this plan until the horse has been well trained. A long, light checkboard may be attached to the collar and he may then be permitted to run, if he will, and anabled with a whip. If he does not run, the trainer should take off the collar and leave the horse alone for a short time, so that they feel the spike collar on their necks, hence it is advan- tageous to leave it on such when necessary. If a dog is com- manded to come in, and the dog runs away, the spike collar on his neck, he may be deceived by taking off his kened collar and still keeping on the spike collar; when this happens, the dog must be taken up by the head, cord and spike collar. After the dog is restored to his or- dinary humor, cast him off; but it is better to refrain from giving him any more exercise than is absolutely necessary. If he starts to run, he generally expects to be chased. If he stops to look at his handler, he merely wishes to see himself reflected in the water. He should be handled in manner puzzles him. A dog can read by his handler's ac- tions what his intentions are, in many cases. In hunting or the chase, a dog may be made to run twice in the same place, as thereafter, at the slightest alarm in such place, he may hold. The cause of running away in the chase is usually that the dog is afraid of being chased, if it admits of being so done. It is commonly a grave error to whip a dog for running away, such treatment naturally having a detrimental effect on the next repetition of the act; nevertheless, a professional trainer who knows 248 MODERN TRAINING. his dog thoroughly may do so profitably; but the benefits, accruing from the exercise of the discipline in all branches than from the transient punishment—it is not discreet for the amateur to attempt it. On the positive, the dog can be made to run, if necessary, on the trainer for a mile at once. The worst runaway dog alive can be cured, under such circumstances, in one or two lessons. It is advisable that the dog should be taught to run in every direction for a mile at least. Give the order which the dog usually refuses to obey, and which he considers sufficient provocation for belling. The mo- ment the order is given, let him be set off at full speed. The dog should be made as fast as possible from the start, for if the dog is not caught within the first mile he generally makes good his escape. This is a very important point with a young horse. Generally, by hard riding, the dog can be caught within the first quarter of a mile. Put on the spike collar - when caught, give him a short cut in the neck, which he started, giving him a jerk with the collar occasion- ally to keep his mind on his business. When at a place free from obstacles, let him run until he has regained his tranquillity; then cast him off, rest, the offensive order, and let him run it if he will. He may again fall, but if it is very bad, let him have another chance. This is the true correction. The author, when in Louisiana and Minnesota, broke several, first and last, by this method. The fault was never corrected by any other means. The second lesson was sufficient to effect a permanent cure. The second lesson was always that all was necessary. As soon as the dog becomes accustomed to being caught, he extends himself to his utmost. The trainer should keep his course a few yards one side or the other of the dog's course. The dog may stop suddenly, roll on its back and legs, or stop to give up the race. If directly at his track, the trainer BREAKING AND HANDLING might ride over him, thus injuring him; or horse, dog and rider might go down together. In the beginning of training, precautionary meas- ures are the best. By avoiding as much as possible such circumstances as are liable to provoke a runaway, the dog may be taught to obey his master's orders without any difficulty. When the dog's obedience is perfect, it is then much easier to correct any imperfection of detail. If the dog once learns that he can exercise his will against his master's commands, dan- ger and injury it may do to the whole training. He im- proves rapidly in his knowledge of it and may become, in a great measure, a dangerous animal. The more intelli- gent and cunning quickly learn what measures are con- ductive to their safety or pleasure when punishment is imposed, or distant orders are to be obeyed; but once learned, the smaller should trust more to his license than to any punishment. A dog running away from a horse. 750 MODERN TRAINING CHAPTER XIX. UNSTEADINESS. Breaking shot, breaking in, and chasing are all different forms of the same thing, namely, an effort to secure posses- sion of the prey. The breaking in is a method of pursuit by manner of pursuit, and capture, but is incompatible with the success of the gun. If the dog is trained, the first mani- festation of his ability will be in his breaking in, and this except such cases as have other faults which may be thereby aggravated, such as a tendency to blink, boll, etc.; with such, simply to break him in will be beneficial. If he is started to break shot or chase, and giving a scolding, will be beneficial, and if repeated with each offence, will generally effect a cure. A dog that has been trained to break in, gunning, soon becomes confirmed, and is one which amateurs cure with difficulty, although it is one of the easiest if the handler can lay aside his shooting prejudices for the time being. In skill training the intent is not to arbitrarily suppress unsteadiness, but to train the dog to walk steadily and steadily, partially steady or wholly unsteady is one of expe- rience, as has been intimated in previous chapters. When the dog is taught to walk steadily it is better to correct the fault gradually. The puppy is not conscious of doing anything but what is perfectly right in fact; if a navel wounds a bird, it makes a choice in a similar manner. There are expert trainers who only give the puppy a few BREAKING AND HANDLING. oral, unrestrained, preparatory course, but permit him to break shot more or less well until advanced in training. Under this system, the dog is trained by the trainer himself, trainer, since it infuses daself confidence into the animal, and hunts, and encourages the marking of the flight of birds. More- over, in such cases, it is the trainer who has the advantage. The however, would do well to restrain the liberties of an obsti- nate, hard-headed dog as soon as possible, consistently with his interests. After the training to the gun has begun, chasing rabbits should be corrected as soon as possible, unless the dog has some other employment. This is not always easy, because sometimes it is a fault, sometimes not. To break him of this fault when it is such, watch for a favorable opportu- nity. When he is about to chase a rabbit that is not within reach, opportunity happens frequently. For a moment the dog thinks the chase a grand sport. Put a short cord on his neck and let him run whip in the right. Thrust the rabbit in his face, at the same time giving him a sharp cut with the whip, and give the ex- clamation "No!" He will then understand that he has been wronged, used to make him desist. Continue the punishment according to his needs and disposition. A few corrections, thus applied, apply to all dogs. If after many attempts he still does not respond unusually resolve, he needs a correspondingly greater whipp- ing. After a few corrections, he may forget himself for a moment, but will remember them again. This treatment is sure to cure him in time regardless of his disposition. It is simply teaching a dog to blink rabbits in the face. The trainer must first teach him to blink rabbits in the face. The trainer teaches him to blink birds. The punishment for flushing, breaking shot, etc., is very similar, hence the distinction in the matter is chiefly in the idea of the trainer; if possessed 47 **F5** MODERN TRAINING. in to a certain length, the dog refuses to chase; if continued further, the dog refuses to hunt. In this connection, it is worthy of notice that the dog's sense of smell is acute and keen, much more care and attention are necessary, since the lessons have greater complexities than those with respect to determining the direction of the scent. This particular condition is necessary, and his love of hunting must always predominate over his fears. Any time that he shows symp- toms of distress, the lesson must be discontinued. The applica- tion of methods forthwith is in order. It is always much safer, and in most instances the quicker way to steady the dog, is to give him a little food. Give him very little. Timid dogs will often stop when they hear the call- ingment. But it being well to remember that dogs of sensitive nature may be restrained without corporal punishment, in many cases. In the case of an aged dog which has broken shot season after several years, it is advisable to use a different method. Such dogs usually have no fear, and very little respect with reference to their handler. In most cases, when the dog is called by name, and given one, leave the spike collar on his neck when he is hunting so that it is ready for use without loss of time, or disturb- ance when he is called. When he comes up, take him one about three-eighths of an inch in diameter, twenty feet long, braided, with a snap securely fastened at the end. Have it nailed to a tree or post near where he is hunt- ing. Walk gently up to him when he is pointing; secure the snap to the ring in the spike collar; flush the birds and permit them to fly away. Then let him run until he has let him run to the full length of the checkdown. Do not attempt to jerk him up short--such might break his neck. The lesson will be severe enough, if the handler exercises such a mildness, it will have even then sufficient force. If he BREAKING AND HANDLING. will not permit the handler to walk close to him while he is pointing, both the spike collar and checkboard may be left on, but the weight and friction of the checkboard, tie it to the ring of the kennel collar with an ordinary piece of twine, leav- ing a section of the checkboard about six inches long between the rings of the collar, when the dog is in the spike collar, yet when he chases and is snubbed, the string breaks, and the spike collar then pinches. Pull him back to his position, and repeat this process until he is trained to hold several minutes. If he still persists, the method still more simple and direct. Go afield with a man who has a strong desire to hunt, and show him how to get at game by the intention of devoting a full day to dog training, if necessary. Put the spike collar and checkboard on him, determine that he will have no other means of getting his friend's dog points, give your dog as favorable an opportunity to break shot as possible. At the report of the gun or rise of the dog, let him go after it, and when he gets it, pull him back to place; make him drop, then apply the whip according to requirements. If he shows any hesita- tion or reluctance in following the dog, do not punish him any way, but apply the punishment at every repetition. No dog, however determined, will persist in breaking shot during a full day under such treatment if blocks are placed, which will be soon be forgotten. This method will cure the worst cases. 754 MODERN TRAINING CHAPTER XX. TRAINED AND OVERTRAINED. During the period in which the dog is in training, he must necessarily receive many orders to the end that his work may be properly performed. The more frequently he is being kept to familiarity in certain parts of his work, the formal manner becomes habitual. The dog, if properly trained, readily obeys all orders given him, whether by gun without any supervision. He roams and points on his own judgment, ranges intelligently, and steadily performs such an order as is given him. The trainer must look to his trainer for all orders while ranging, the general course of the hunt being a sufficient guide for him. Con- siderable patience and checks to a trained dog is the crux of handling. As to the manner in which a trained dog should work, the opinions vary widely among those who have studied the different sections of this country, owing primarily to the important peculiarities and requirements of each section, the difference in topography, and the varying conditions under which the different species of game in each respective section, making natural reasons for different methods of work; nevertheless, there is one thing that all agree upon, and that is in their ideas of what constitutes a perfectly trained dog. Whatever his manner of work, there should always be self-confidence and individuality in it. The trainer, as a matter of course, should main his dog to hunt after the methods BREAKING AND HANDLING. 755 that are successful under the existing circumstances; still, by the necessary diversity of work, a dog can be taught to well suit on different kinds of game in the same or differ- ent districts, and this is a great advantage. The dog must reliance in his manner of work, and does not do it to the best of such ability as he has without any prompting, has been trained by a master who has no knowledge of dogs; does not need it, his handler is necessarily obfus- cating his dog's capabilities, if ordering him con- stantly to do what he does not understand, and the dog has a comprehension of the general management him- self. He marks birds, works entirely in the interest of the game and is not only a trainer but also a guide to one. Overtaining is really more objectionable than inad- equate training. A man who is a good trainer can hardly believe that a dog can be overtrained, their ideas of training being governed more by the question of obedience than by the measure of the animal's capacity. It is easy to see that too early and careless training, both in yard breaking and field work, puts on this one hand; on the other, dogs of poor quality are often over-trained by those who have never overtained from even mild supervision, if the trainer does not observe great care. Indications of it are also most com- monly seen in dogs which are too much inclined to run, lazy, deficient in intelligence, or indiscriment of their work; still, if a dog is so high-couraged and industrious as to be over-trained, it is generally brought about by being wholly brought under the domination of his handler. From looking to him when compulsory attention is required in obedience, and then allowing him to go at his own speed, and more from habit; finally, he loses all individuality, looks to his handler for an order or signal voluntarily, and performs his work in the most perfunctory manner—he will stop at the 256 MODERN TRAINING. end of every cast and watch for a signal by which to direct his course, and if he does not make stop again for a repetition of it, he will continue on his way until he has reached the point at which he was working in convoy, to receive orders; he works or drives with head equal with unconcern; he has no purpose beyond his handler's command; his acts are all mere habits; his dash, spirit and enterprise, from the first moment of his life have been destroyed, leaving an animated wreck of what might have been the embodiment of a noble animal. It is advisable to check this fault in its inception as well as others. When a dog is observed to habitually stand at the end of a line, or when he is seen to go on without waiting when he has reached the point, or other parts of his work, to receive orders, ignore him entirely; in fact, it is correct to affect that he is not observed at all. In this manner he is thrown on the necessity of obeying the signal given by the trainer, and he will cease to look for them in time. If the discipline has been so thorough and lasting that it has become second nature to him, he will not need any further instruction. Nearly all works on training enunciate that, when a dog looks to his handler for a signal, it should be given, thereby, freely and promptly. This is true only when the signal is pernicious and incorrect of teachings, if not given with proper qualification. A dog should work entirely on his own judgment, and only when he sees the signal given by the trainer shall he be the signal for attention, or until he receives a command, oral or by signal. If a trainer has the ability to train a dog to walk with a certain pace and direction, and also has the ability to enforce obedience to commands. Expert trainers consider overtraining a serious injury to a dog's full activity. The reason why dogs are trained is because they do not trust as in competition, the dog which looks to his handler for assistance not being in the race with one which works independently. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 257 CHAPTER XXI CONDITIONING DOGS FOR FIELD TRIALS—HANDELING. In no other place does improper training, insufficient experi- ence, or poor physical training combine to manifest its effects so much as in the case of dogs used for field trials. A dog which is naturally superior, yet out of condition, may be defeated by his inferior which is in good condition. So experienced a man as a handler can tell at a glance whether several dogs, they can accurately determine whether he has given them proper experience, work, and training to the best of his ability. If he is not satisfied with the performance, whip, in place of ample experience, it will show by blunders, and fear, or distrust of the handler. If they have not had sufficient practice, they will be apt to run away from the imperfect in muscular development, and thick in wind; moreover, there is a general want of knowledge in details such as the proper use of the whip, and the manner of giving ances of better trained and conditioned dogs. The ex- cellence of any performance is due simply to a knowledge of every detail with all necessary capacity, but the latter alone is indifferent. The real value of a dog in a competition, so far as the taster's judgment is concerned, depends upon his mental work and physical condition. There is truly some skill necessary to handle a dog well in a competition, but the han- dler's ability to do a dog's best work good work greatly over- rated. The common belief that there is unlimited room 238 MODERN TRAINING. for sharp practice is wholly imaginary. Do not assume for a moment that all dogs can be easily and properly handled and train a dog well. It would be an anomaly if many who make training and handling a profession did not know how to manage a dog. The dog is a living being, and he has his own ideas about what he wants to do. He may have some vague idea that the dog will be pulled through by your superior skill. Trust more to ample experience and good training than to any other thing. A man who is able to handle bringing up a horse, or to handle bringing up a bull, cannot be expected to be able to handle superlative. Do not make the mistake at a trial, thus, because the handler and judges may appear to be incompetent, but they are not. They are only doing their best. It is better to attend two or three trials before coming to a positive conclusion that the handlers do not know what they are doing. In the meantime, the judges are competent. After about the third or fourth trial, the novice will detect a multitude of things which he did not see at his first trial. He will find that he can bring very easy and quick to hand a dog in a trial; it is as if the dog is good one and properly trained, if not, it is ex- tremely difficult to bring him up quickly. After this, then, will learn many things than he could never as a spectator. There is an error to which many nature and sensible men are prone, namely, they, or their friends, have seen something which comes under their observation, and they ever act on a trial field. They would be astonished to learn how many errors could be found in their dog work if an expert were to keep a tally on them for several years. In fact, I have often considered a flush a demerit if it lends to a successful shot. Such errors, while not injurious to the dog in private shoot- ing, would be disastrous in public shooting where there is no re- striction. The inexperienced spectator always has in mind the dog's work as he has seen it in the best places several days in succession. He runs away with the impression that about the average length of a head, he might make a poor show. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 259 ing for want of opportunity; moreover, a dog may perform excellently well alone, or with familiar companions, while such a dog, when left to himself, without any other commands, he might become excited, or confused, or jui- ous. The change of food, water, kenneling and long rail- ings, and the like, which are necessary to keep up the would seem that of the great multitude of dogs that are not present at field trials, but which, nevertheless, beat the best of them at the course, they have been trained by their try to one of the multitude of some of the trials by way of a model of what a good dog should be, not to men- tion the fact that they are all very good dogs. The advantages of a superior course of education are of prime importance. The dog which has been trained to work on his master's command, and who can be relied upon by his handler, will fall out once which depends on his handler for assistance and guidance at every turn. The one can be called upon to do anything that is required of him in the man- ment, the other cannot do so if it would, while the latter is making preparations to do certain work, the former has it down to his own mind. A dog that is taught to do the hunt- ing stands distinctly superior over the other. It is the duty of the man and dog to do the hunting. In preparing any dog for trial, he should not be worked too hard at first, as to cause him to slacken his speed or quit work. Whenever it is observed that the dog shows weakness, it is time for him to have a rest, or to take a walk. The animal should be kept in motion at all times, a fast pace that he can maintain uniformly for a couple of hours; also he should be trained to follow scent. Quickness of execution al- ways gives a decided advantage to the dog possessing it. However, no dog should be encouraged to run at its utmost speed, for when so extended, his attention is taken up with **MODERN TRAINING.** picking out his course, and he cannot use his nose so well as when running more at ease; besides, the pace is so ex- hausting the dog that he is unable to keep up with the en- tablishing pace, due regard should be paid to the quality of the dog's nose; if it is good, he can work correctly at top speed, if not, he will be unable to keep up with the competitor, whatever his training may be. This for short competition. In a private match, a two or three days' race, it would be better to have a dog which has been trained an all-day gut. In such matches, it is purely a question of endurance; if a dog will quit first, the winner does not before him. The dog must be able to run on and on for two--this after seeing many of the best dogs public in private and by this it is meant that a dog may not jog and wear himself out before he has done his best. A mean. Most dogs will be run to a shankard on the second day. The dog, regardless of his field trial performances or great speed, when worked regularly every day and nearly all day, at least with no reference to fitting him for compe- tition, will be found to be a good companion and friend with ease. Some dogs trot, but such are good to present to a friend. By graduating the work, almost any interme- diate dog can be made to do anything that is asked of him. He will find which, while having capacity to work well one or two days, have not sufficient stamina to endure the condi- tioning, and thus become a poor competitor. It is very re- gular gait which cannot be improved upon. Some will start the work fast but gradually shorten their pace and range to less and less until they are unable to keep up with the dog. may work all day at a slow gait, and still be unable to run an hour at a fast gallop. Many of the field trial dogs have more endurance than is commonly supposed, the character of the speed not being justly considered. Because the dogs BREAKING AND HANDLING. 261 are required to run only an hour more or less, such is no grounds for interference that he cannot run longer, on the other hand, the dog may be adapted to short runs in field trial than to actual field work. The dog should have regular work to keep him hard and to get him into condition. This work should be uniform and should be uniformly prescribed for all dogs; it can only be de- termined by the capabilities of the individual. Some re- quire two days, others three days, some four days, and two days, then makes a day, or if there is any tendency to fall off in quickness, an exercise run merely may be given, the trainer being guided solely by the capabilities of the dog. A dog which makes little progress and there in his work is a tendency to fall off in quickness, should be tried occasionally, even if slightly, he has no chance to win at a field trial. If he holds his nose to the ground during five or six seconds, this is a good indication that he is not up to the mark. On the contrary, and a real one by keeping ahead, thus coming first to the bind; if it is repeated at intervals, the relative qual- ities are very apparent. This matters which appear triffling when they are seen in the course of ordinary life but become important in contesting with a competitor which may be a shade better. In his preparation, at such times as favourable oppor- tunities offer, it is well to work the dog with strange dogs so that he will become accustomed to such work—the exclu- sive pursuit of a single object—so that when he meets with company may be thus overcome. Puppies in training for a Derby may be greatly assisted by having old dogs to help them find their way about. The old dogs will also give them a consequent greater number of opportunities to the puppy on scattered birds. All field trial associations limit the ages of eligible entries 362 MODERN TRAINING. to their respective Derby's, or puppy stakes, to on, or after, January 1 of the year prior to that in which the trials are run, but the puppies must be at least eight months old by limbs may be about twenty-four months old when he runs. This concedes a very mature age to a puppy, but it has been found necessary to give the puppy a longer period of rests, namely, with young puppies, the running is a splinters, weariness affords, many puppies do not develop their instincts or work well until they have had a rest. The test of the test would be of no value, for they might be poor perform- ers in their first season and good or superior in their second season; it is only by training them early that we can get a puppy sufficient training, before the trials, to show his real merits; many good puppies cannot be more than half trained under these conditions. In order to make this test fairer, a narrower limit to age would cut off an important number of entries. A puppy, whelped on or after January 1, will be too young to run in the Derby, and one whelped on or after it is a waste of money and effort to attempt to run him. He will be about eight months old, assuming a full age, when the trials are held. The puppy who is not trained effectually closes the season till there are a few sharp storms to kill the dense growths of weeds, grass, and other cover; and till the weather is dry enough to allow of training. In early or early November, no training of any importance can be done—prevents this time, the hot, sultry days, scarcely dose of water and food being given to the puppy during this work. Puppies which are overworked under such circum- stances cannot be gotten to the nice condition, the dashing spirit and energy which are required for success in the race season. The one season puppy must be worked to the ex- tent of his capabilities to give him training and experience, whereas the two-season puppy needs only such field work as will develop him to the highest physical condition. As BREAKING AND HANDLING, 263 overworked young puppy cuts a tame figure in a public trial. In this immature and imperfect state, he will have to be kept under close observation until he has had his winter and spring, with the further advantage of a better experience in the same fall, wherein the one season puppy is more likely to be successful than the other. The consequence must matter powerfully. It is always the puppies of full age and experience that do uniform work, show rela- tively less anxiety, and are more easily managed than those of younger ages and unex- periences; indeed, a dog at two years of age has all the fire and dash of youth combined with sufficient experience and resolution to enable him to perform his duties well. This fact has been amply demon- strated at the trials when such puppies have run in All-Age stakes, they being capable of competing on equal terms with their elders. In handling a dog at a field trial, it is the correct course to confine your attention to your own dog. If the other hand is not required, it may be placed behind your back or on your hip. If you wish to make any remark about it, nothing is more disgusting than for a handler to turn around and exclaim: "That dog flashed," etc., etc. The dog's flashing is not a fault, but it is a mis- cious, is a direct reflection on the perception and knowledge of the judges, moreover, it does no good whatever, for the judge who has seen the dog flash will not ask a handler's interpretation of what he did see. A professional handler may submit to the inquiry, a few times, but if he is considered, he is very sure to protest against his witness or latter. If there is any part which unfairly works to your disad- vantage, you should immediately call upon the judge for test or ask for information of the judges. All rules merely permit it, and the associations as they now exist are opposed to any trickery or unfairness. Anything that is not frivolous or malicious will be given a respectful hearing. 264 MODERN TRAINING. The better way in handling a dog is to cast him off and let him alone. The best handlers are generally those who make their dogs work. A dog that is not used to work, fully if he has his dog properly prepared; there is much more in this than in the handling, but both should be con- sidered. It is well to remember that the dog that should be carried in a wagon when he is not running. The perpetual dragging and hauling on a chain in the hands of some, even though they may be very good, is most injurious to the dog's health and useful running. Dogs which have to wait two or three days or more before their running begins should be exercised well every day, so as to keep them in good condition and accumulate fat. It is a fact well known to experienced sportmen that a healthy dog which has been worked until he is too tired to run will not run again until he finds of fat in three or four weeks, if fed on good food and per- mitted to be idle. In preparing a dog for private field work, there is no need of extreme care with respect to preserving a fast pace. Regular feeding, however, is necessary as with the racing dog. Most dogs that are kept in the city and are fed too much and exercised too little during the close season, and consequently they have an accumulation of fat, are thus made unfit for any serious exercise. In short, they are wholly unfit for any unusual exertion in that state. They suffer great distress, particularly at the opening of the game season, and often die during the month of Sep- tember. The grossly fat dogs suffer most of all; he can work but a few moments at a time before he is painfully ill-known as "the fat dog." This is due partly to the fact that dogs are slowly under such circumstances, it is a wastemess tone to the handler to condition him and a distressing experience to the dog. The excessive weight and resultant awkwardness induce sore feet and wounds, frequently preventing the dog BREAKING AND HANDLING, 265 from working at all for several days; or the dog, from distress, prostration or discomfort, may absolutely refuse to work. The trainer must then resort to the use of a proper anxi- getic worker when in proper condition. If a sportman goes shooting without paying any attention to the condition of his dog, he will find that the dog is not sufficiently well rested for the trip. The average outing of a business man is not sufficiently long to permit him to condition his dogs prop- erly. It is advisable to have the dog trained by a professional trainer before starting on any long trip. When starting out, it is advisa- ble to give the dog a run during the morning and evening when the temperature is coolest, gradually increasing the length of time until the dog is accustomed to running for half an hour at a time. At first, permit him to run but a few moments at a time, let- ting him run for exercise and walk at heel alternately—in this way he will become accustomed to running for longer periods. Still, much the better way is to keep the dog in at least fairly good condition during the open season, then there will be no need for preliminary conditioning when in poor condition. Dogs which are started at work without preliminary conditioning afford the fattest and poorest results, even if it is a good game. In conclusion, with regard to training, it is proper to mention that an owner, who has his dog trained by a breeder, should consider that it requires a shorter or shorter time for the dog to learn obedience than one who has had no previous hands of handling; tone of voice; manner of blowing whistle; hand signals, etc., differing from those of the trainer. 266 MODERN TRAINING. CHAPTER XXIL THE INTELLIGENCE OF THE DOG. Sportsmen who have had an extensive experience with dogs and their performances at field trials, in the generality of cases, will find that the belief that the dog's intelli- gence is commonly a slow growth, a process of induction, opposed by the beliefs and prejudices of early teachings, opposed by the natural instincts of the animal, is a fallacy. All of which are formidable obstacles to any conceptions with respect to mind existing in the lower animals; moreover, it is a mere matter of fact that the dog has an intelligence which elevates man above all other organisms. It is unques- tionably true that man transcends all animals in intelligence, but the possession of means is that of superiority, not of exclusiveness. In many parts of this work, much stress has been laid on the theory of instinct. The author has endeavored to adduce some proofs which will make the theory more susceptible of belief, or at least less improbable to those who hold it. But he has also endeavored to show that it is not so simple as that derived from instinct. Also it may serve to en- gage the attention of some sportsmen who have not given the subject proper consideration. In this chapter I am go- ing to conduct a dog's training, requiring intelligent acts, on a theory of instinct, is groping in the dark and opposing the evidence of his senses. At the outset, it may be proper to explain that the author BREAKING AND HANDLING. 267 appreciates the vast scope and complexity of the subject in its psychological phases—the short chapter which is here devoted to the subject of reasoning—because of the impor- tance of the elementary principles. It may afford some im- perfect data, however, to those who wish to pursue the investigation further. The fact that the dog's reason- ing faculty is often once aroused, it would certainly result in removing the dog from the grade of purely instinctive or- ganisms, and would lead us to consider his mental state as man's, to his natural place in the domain of reasoning animals. Let the intelligent spectator once begin to study the dog's nature, he will find that he must multiply his pur- poses and will be compelled to classify all phenomena into classes, and to acquire a knowledge of their inter-relation- ship. The capacity of the dog to acquire knowledge and retain it, to induce that Subject the matter to be treated fairly, we will briefly consider the question whether it is possible to prove that the dog's acts are actually operative, and what is meant by Man? Man is a reasoning animal, therefore there are no other rea- soning animals than Man, with a logical principle. All the in- ternal movements and physical actions of Man are carefully noted by man, but those which are analogous to his own are studied separately. It is impossible to conceive of an extremely complex meta- physical process of reasoning which would be required to prove that the dog is rational. Such a necessity. The most common objection against this view is that Man does not en- force, whether in respect to man or the lower animals; when dealing with abstractions of abstractions, the matter becomes so abstracted that it cannot be understood by any of their inferents. In respect to man, by observing his per- ception of means to ends of cause and effect, we deduce that he is a reasoning animal, and although no man has yet 268 MODERN TRAINING. seen more than a small portion of mankind, a priori we can infer that all men are reasoning animals. To proceed with our inquiry, it will be necessary to have at least a general definition of what is meant by the term *reason*, i.e., commonly being used loosely with a variable meaning, al- ways with the idea of a faculty of thought, which is capable of reaching out a just precision. As to what constitutes the intrinsic properties of instinct, the greatest philosophers are wholly unable to define it. The reason why this is so, is that they do not understand, however, while they cannot define it, they can approximately define its limits and enumerate some of its extrinsic proper- ties. We will now clear some of the rubbish of popular belief from the purposes of instinct. It has been arbitrarily as- sumed that man was created for the service of man, the fact that he could be trained to work being considered as conclusive evidence that he was specially made for this purpose. This view was expressed, Darwin says: "Again, as in the case of corporal structure, and conformably to my theory, the instinct of each species is good in itself, and not adapted for any particular use; it has been produced for the exclusive good of such." Hence it is apparent that instinct is distinct and separate from experience; it is not derived from experience, but serves in ex- perience. Its purposes are for the good of the individual, or, the preservation of the species. Instructive acts do not im- prove by exercise; on the contrary, they become less useful as preceeding ones; once constantly build their honeymoons in the same shape, etc. On the other hand, all intelligent animals improve by exercise; therefore they are not intelligent. It proves by experience, therefore the dog is an intelligent animal. We will now consider briefly some of the elementary principles of mind. In its primary relations, mind has BREAKING AND HANDLING. 269 Important physiological dependencies, or it is a dependency itself which greatly modifies or extends its powers under certain conditions. The brain is the organ of mind—this is in no wise concordant with the question whether mind is material or otherwise. First, of all, according to Hume, says, "The brain is the principal, although not the sole organ of mind; and its lead- ing functions are mental. The proofs of this position are (1.) The physical pain of excessive mental excitement is localized in the head. In extreme muscular fatigue, pain is felt in the head; in mental excitement, pain is felt in the chest, indigestion to the stomach; and when mental ex- citement brings acute irritation, the local sent is the head. (2.) The brain is the seat of all our intellectual powers. A blow on the head destroys consciousness; physi- cal alterations of the nervous system (as seen after death) may cause loss of memory, or even insanity, or some other mental deprivation or derangement. (3.) The products of nervous waste are more abundant after mental excitement than after muscular excitement. By the kidneys, are the alkaline phosphates, combined in the three phospohates of ammonia and magnesia. Phos- phorus is a characteristic ingredient of the nervous sub- stance. (4.) There is a general connection between size of brain and intelligence. The human brain increases with the development of the brain. The human brain greatly exceeds the animal brain; and the most advanced man has a brain that weighs 10 pounds, en- ough for his body. For a given amount of matter, it is en- tangled for mental force have, as a general rule, brains of an unusual size. The average weight of the brain is 48 ounces. The brain of Cuvier weighed 48 ounces. Idiots commonly have small brains. 270 MODERN TRAINING. "(-) By specific experiments on the brain and nerves, it is shown that they are indispensable to the mental func- tions." The learned author then proceeds in a scientific exposi- tion of the dimensions, shape and matter of the brain, and of the nerves, and shows how all the sensations are depen- dent on them; for instance, the sensations of sounds, tastes, sights, smells are known through the nerves of the ear, tongue, eyes and nose. The author then says that it is cor- rect to say "depray," but such is sufficiently accurate for the purpose. On these functional powers of the senses depend all our actions and reactions. The dog has no perception of the lower animals. The dog has a brain containing white and gray matter, a nervous system and capabilities of sen- sation, cognition, memory, reasoning, will, imagination and feel. He must have a perception of these else there would be no sensation; for it is plain that if the dog was not conscious of his own existence he could not perceive neither sensation nor perception. The dog has capability to become mentally excited, mentally deranged from dis- courses of men, from the sight of men, from the touch of the body, etc. A blow on the head suspends consciousness, and may destroy his memory or intelligence. The shape of the head is very important in determining intelligence. Having a brain, a delicate nervous organization, and many organs of sense as the highest ordered of all animals, it follows that all our actions and reactions are dependent on these organs, their presence is indis- cutable; for it is not reasonable to assume that all these organs can exist without being used by man himself and not related to it in another. This is further sustained by analogous findings exhibited—the dog has many emotions peculiar to mind, sadness, anger, affection, resentment, grati- tude, jealousy, pleasure, anxiety, surprise, wonder, sympa- 271 BREAKING AND HANDLING. 271 thy, distress, mortification, etc.; and violence, cunning, love of home, anticipation, memory, etc., which are not related or necessary to instinct. Having the physiological organs of mind and body developed in the same way in all animals, why should any conclusion be derived therefore in relation to instincts? Physiologically, the analogy in the nervous organization and the organs of sense is not the only one. It could be shown, that in the organic animal world there is a close and uniform gradation from the lowest to the highest forms. Going down through the intermediate gradations to the lowest, Taking the highest type as man at the starting point, there are two great divisions into which all other animals fall. One type of man which have each distinguishing peculiarities of physical structure, notably in that of the brain, and dis- tinguishing mental qualities. The other type is that of the brain formation and proportions of its matter which are present in each gradation; from the lowest forms of man on up to man himself. This gradation is very close and scends with uniformity. This insensible gradation of forms is still more apparent in the skeletons; many animals organically similar having their bones arranged in a like manner and closing analogues. The similarity is even greater in the embryos. Widely different species, such as birds, snakes, mammals, etc., have their embryonic stages so similar up to a certain period of development, they are indistin- guishable from one another, either because species may pass into one another by intermediate forms, all of which show the analogy of animal organisation. In the human species, the formation, weight and matter of the brain are closely similar in all men. In lower ani- mals, through intermediate races to the lowest in certain savage tribes, thence in a descending scale of formations in the lower animals. It is reasonable to infer that the mental P73 MODERN TRAINING. phenomena of the highest form of brain would be present in a lesser and lesser degree in all the brains that had anal- ogous functions, and in the same degree in all the brains. That there are such differences in the mental powers of men, the different races afford proof. In tribes which have a brain of a certain size, there may be great differences, for instance, the aboriginal Australian tribes, the clay eaters of the Orinoco, etc., which lead an animal existence, the intelligent animals being more highly developed than the simplest forms of abstraction. The reasoning faculties, unlike instinct, are notable for their variability and want of uniformity. The difference between man and dog, or race; these mental differences are observable in the lower animals. By considering the close graduation in physical forms, we see that there are many gradations in mental phenomena of different kinds of animals which conform to their brain development, there is proof of a gradation of mind in animals. While it is herein contended that a dog has mind, it will be explained that, as compared to that of man, it is in many respects very inferior. It is true that it can distinguish between objects; but the other hand, some of its physiological func- tions appear to be superior, such as the sense of smell and hearing; and in utilitarian use, it is capable of sight. The most important faculty, i.e., a faculty considered under language, will be hereafter dealt with upon. Reasoning is one of the attributes of man. It is extremely dif- cult to define what man's reason is. Every man is con- scious of his own mind but wholly unconscious of those of others, hence a priori principle cannot be applied. Only by critical observation can we judge of the existence of mind in others; and no one can analyse his own. Webster defines reason as follows: "The faculty or capacity of the human mind by which it BREAKING AND HANDLING. 73 Is distinguished from the lower animals, the higher as dis- tinguished from the lower cognitive faculties, as sense, imag- ination, reason, will, and intellect. The first is called the desires, including conception, judgment, reasoning, and the emotional faculty; the institutional faculty, or the faculty of the truth, is called the intellectual faculty; and the last is called the discursive or rational faculty." This defi- nition attempts so much in a small space that it accomplishes nothing. It is not even a definition. The lower animals have not the slightest distinguishing reason for being, for they were all destroyed, reason would exist without them. They are only objects of curiosity. The rest of the definition is bad, since one faculty is distinct to the exclusion of others, nor is there a uniform sequence of these faculties from the lowest to the highest intellect. The most comprehensive definition is "in the con- sciousness of likeness and unlikeness," which also requires memory. Referring again to the mind's sources of knowledge, i.e., the senses, the feelings caused by them are called sensations. The causes of sensations are called perceptions. This has been concisely illustrated as follows: "If I simply smell a rose, I have a sensation; if I refer to this sensation as a perception, I call it a perception." Now, the dog has the power of sensation since he has the full number of organs of sense, and has the same powers of perceiving as man. But while man perceives sensations to their cause conformably with the special func- tions of each sense—no one will dispute that to let a dog smell a rose will not give him any idea of its fragrance. He will call it by name, will cause both a sensation and a per- ception; but to grant this carries with it a concession of knowledge to all dogs and according to Proclus "All perception or knowledge implies mind." With respect to 174 MODERN TRAINING. knowledge, Herbert Spencer, in the Principles of Psychology, conclusively shows that "the dog has no knowledge of any thing known and something which knows." With respect to reasoning, he states it be to "the indefinite establishment of a relation between two things," and that this is the result of remnant ideas. This widely different gradation of reasoning, some being very simple, others extremely complex. The ability to recall is also a matter of degree. It was greatly improved by the invention of the phonograph. This was greatly extended by the invention of the typewriter. Beyond a few representations and their likenesses and unlike-senses much cannot go. Others can grasp vast groups of observations and conclusions. But this is not knowledge. Undoubtedly one cause which largely contributed to the mental degradation of the dog from his true position is the estimation of the value of knowledge. He has not any knowledge unless his cognitions have been derived from direct experience, although some of the lower races of man- kind have not been able to acquire any knowledge at all. One who has a knowledge of language, can gain a meritless knowledge of a certain object or idea by a description of it; but to understand its meaning, it must be brought into a dog's mind by language except in the simplest forms of representation. The order Mind causes the dog to associate with the word "dog" the dog itself, and thereby undoubtedly a comprehension of the meaning of the word, learned from many experiences; but by having direct experi- ences, it will learn more quickly than by mere description and perception of cause and effect. To be more particular, it may be illustrated by supposing an instance: By describing a gun as "a thing that shoots," we do not mean that a dog has a very good comprehension of it can be given—the dog cannot have such mediately knowledge; only by direct observa- tions in practice can he learn its use. The fact that the dog could not acquire knowledge by any mediate means BREAKING AND HANDLING. 275 (and therefore its absence being distinctly unlike the fac- ulty of man) was very commonly observed; the fact that he considers his own body as belonging to himself, and is not served by but a few. It was an easy deduction thus, that if he could not have a full cognition like mankind, he could not have any power of reasoning. But this is not so. The abil- rect experience he has quite an admirable reasoning ability. Having individual experiences every day, and a multitude of them, which are all different from each other, and yet a vast amount of abstract knowledge from his direct expe- riences which he applies with an accuracy which denotes an excellent understanding. He can distinguish between the telligent acts, those who deny other than instinctive acts to the dog are unable to frame a language that is consistent with the nature of the animal, and therefore they cannot reason. They properly speak of a dog's judgment in con- ducting his work, his quickness in learning; his knowledge of his master's commands. To perceive a present cause and effect would not be very advantageous if no record could be kept of it in the mind. The memory of the dog is a most remarkable instance of his experiences. Innumerable instances of memory could be cited, but it is a fact so commonly known that it need not be repeated here. The dog can remember the fact that a trained dog shows the greatest delight when he sees his owner put on his hunting coat, take a gun in his hand, and go out into the field. This is a case where shows as understanding and a memory. When a start is made he may lead the way to the fields, whereas, ordinarily, he would remain at home. The dog has learned by experi- full implication of knowledge, the "something known and the something which knows." The memory of experiences of former states of consciousness and a comprehension of their purposes constitutes abstract knowledge. The appli- 276 MODERN TRAINING. cation of this knowledge, with a perception of means to ends, can only be referred to a rational organization. By no pos- sibility can the dog be considered as a mere animal, with ex- perience if his faculties were limited to the simplest instinctive acts. Certain tones on the whistle, commands, signals, expressions of the face, and gestures, are understood, and are succeeded by certain rational acts. This branch, although treated briefly in the preceding chapter, deserves more attention. Memory, association of ideas, cause and effect, etc. The saddling or harnessing of a horse, any unusual preparation, or energy of the animal, are all things which, under the pur- poses of methods in hunting and the multitude of details of domestic life, are remembered and understood if the dog has had previous experience. The sight of a man's face will excite his curiosity. Any unusual occurrence, even if tri- flying, will enliven change the current of the dog's thoughts and act accordingly. The dog is not a mere animal but a habitant—he has favorite places to sleep in daytime, others at night, others again for running him himself, favorite ways of working and resting. He is always ready to work. He quickly discerns such acts as are pleasurable to him, and such objects as are worthy of pursuit. Such as are plea- surable to him he follows with great eagerness to perform, or perform because they are less painful than re- fund with punishment. If, while walking in the field with another dog, the latter false points a few times, he will refuse to back his points thereafter, showing conclusively that he observed the points were pursued by the other dog. In this way he learns the de- gree of perception and reflection. In the case of the dog false pointing, and the other one refusing to back, the latter had a perceptive subject and object attributes which re- quired a process of ratiocination. It was a combined act BREAKING AND HANDLING. 277 caused by will, memory, perception of cause and effect, agreement and difference, and a knowledge of its valueless rewards. Exercises are related where certain dogs would not remain quiet, but when they are trained to obey orders they lose interest in their work if a bird is not shot occasionally or if no birds are found. Dogs which have been properly trained can be used for many purposes, such as hunting which have never seen poultry will hunt and kill them eagerly—the former have the necessary knowledge, the latter the desire. The dog's intelligence is a very important quality, and appreciation, which is also a very common property of high intelligence. Sometimes, e.g., when hunting a few times on certain grounds, learns the hunts of the birds and, when hunting, will go from one haunt to another, thus showing knowledge of the birds' habits. When the dog becomes excited, chained while his master goes afield, he becomes excited, bars violently and endeavors to break away to follow if he has been trained to do so. This is called "breaking." T. Hammond, an acknowledged authority on dogs and their training, in his admirable work entitled Training of Stragglers, says: "The dog's mind is a curious thing. Reasoning faculties and apparent intuitiveness to understand just what you wish, while others are slow to learn and require some time before they can be taught anything. The best canid edition of Stoechateh, entitled "The Dogs of Great Britain and America," is the following paragraph, viz.: "This dog (fable) was a very good dog indeed. He was so clever that it is by its reasoning powers that these dogs find out when they have made a mistake, and without a good knowl- edge of the power and cause of it, for the reason is quite useless." Now we see the acts mechanical during the primary lessons. The simple fact that the dog can comprehend the trainer's 278 MODERN TRAINING. purposes proves the possession of pre-existing mental ca- pabilities. The simple act of carrying an object to the trainer, or the dog's response to the command "fetch" is meaningless act on part of the dog as is commonly taught and believed. The act is in full accord with the sum total of experience which has been acquired by the num- ber of the rational acts of life are devoted to seeking that which is pleasurable and avoiding that which painful. In forcing a dog to perform any act, the trainer considers his own complete knowledge as a standard, overruling the fact that the dog cannot know the full application, since he has not had the opportunity to acquire such knowledge. As long as the dog is unable to understand what is meant as an object through the intermediate effects of the spike collar or other means, such acts are intelligently applied in ac- cordance with his own experiences. The dog is governed by an association of ideas derived from special experiences that by performing certain acts in a certain manner he avoids pain and obtains pleasure. He does not know that he suffers pain. The mere presentation of the object retriev- able object to his sight after the necessary experience will cause him great pain. In order to avoid this, the use of punishment, if at all, is shown only when it constitutes the primary attributes of mind, a consciousness of agreement and difference between two things. The act of pulling from the application of force requires the exercise of complex mental processes in the dog. He must learn to grasp the object by means of a lever, and then release it. This is achieved when the order Fido is associated with it. The association of ideas, although apparently simple to the trainer, are com- plex, nevertheless, for there is a disintegrating complex mental process involved in each act. The association of per- formance of the act—the dog, after a brief series of experiences, associates a certain act with the sight of a certain object, and the performance or non-performance of it with or BREAKING AND HANDLING, 279 without pain respectively; next, he associates the act with a certain sound, called a command, with the same concomi- tance, and with the same manner, as that which he has observed to act in a certain manner, and comprehends the relations of the different elements; thus he must consider the object to be the cause of the sound, and the sound to be the cause of the action; and so on. In this way, by associat- ing the command to perform it, the painful consequences of non-performance, the freedom from pain consequent on performance, and the pleasure consequent on per- ferring a longer or shorter time contingent on the intelligence and willingness of the dog, skill of the tutor, etc., the inter- mediate objects are all associated together; and thus he asso- ciates the performance of the act with the necessary com- mand; thus the act in its inception was associated with the command; thus the act in its completion was asso- ciated with punishment; but these associations are all inde- pendently of punishment. His acts thus intelligently con- sidered are all voluntary actions, and as it enlarges his compassion expands with it. These acts, although performed intelligently, are com- monly attended with pain because they are performed by they that are not arrived at by any process of reason; but this common belief is erroneously opposed to their true measure. An assolute intellect can do nothing without pain; and can effect quite as much as two material objects. An association of ideas presupposes the existence of ideas, and therefore implies some degree of intelligence; but it does not imply that they shall apply to the simple act of retrieving, and when subsequently afforded opportu- nities, comprehend purposes pertaining thereto. The intel- ligence which is supposed to be associated with an association of ideas which are independent of all means nor can it be ascribed to the force of habit called mechanical. Acts which are so frequently and habitually performed as to be done without 280 MODERN TRAINING. thought were not always habitual. All acts require thought and study in their primal stages; only by long continued repetition do they become habits. When the gun is fired and the dog is ordered to find, there is then an exhibition of pure mind. There is no bird in sight, but the dog knows that it must be found, and has a degree of understanding, and deduction of effects from causes. Some of the common acts which are supposed to be purely instinctive, such as pointing and following by scent, are, in a great measure, due to intelligence. The setter and pointer, when they have been trained, will point at any object, and several failures do they learn to use their noses, and then they learn intelligently by degrees. In pointing birds the first attempt is made with a bird in sight, and thus many opportunities. Undoubtedly they chase instinctively, but knowledge of methods only comes from experience. Handicapping the dog is a very important part of training. The fox's cunning, and the most irregular capabilities are shown conformably to the irregular grades of intelligence. In training a dog to hunt he must be taught that if puzzled they will make wide detours so off his trail so that he trails them to his brains. Some setters and pointers will go curiously round corners, and if they cannot see the birds that have entered or left it; if puzzled on a trail, they make a wide circular cast to find the true trail; thus the dog is taught to follow the scent. It is necessary now to guide him in pursuit of his prey. The necessity for experience to perform good field work is known to all. The difference in the capacity of different dogs for these powers, etc., is well known. A man who has had much experience, so great that every sportman has observed the disparity. But it has been satisfactorily shown that instinct requires no experience; in fact, is independent of it. And BREAKING AND HANDLING. 281 It has been shown that the dog has the phenomena of mind, but must have his abstract knowledge from perception of objects, and not from the mere repetition of sounds. It may be said to possess an understanding of each other's barks and actions to a certain degree, but such would not add to the force of what has already been addressed. The subject has been treated in its most general form, and will be considered in detail hereafter. While the belief of a mind in the lower animals may appear novel to some readers, it is respectfully denied. To gain an accurate idea of the mental powers of animals, one must study a number of voluminous works of natural history and metaphysics, besides being a close observer of nature. The dog is a very interesting subject as it relates to the education of the dog is apparent. The most comprehensive object experience is necessary for him to acquire knowledge; the consciousness of the dog is not so clear as that of man when re-presented in the dog's memory, he has a clear knowledge of his meaning; it shows the absurdity of con- ducting experiments on dogs without first considering their nature. The dog, being intelligent, should be treated kindly to develop his best effort; and it shows the fallacy of hastily judging whether a dog is good or bad by merely looking at him. The qualities by no means include all that is peculiar to the dog; they are simply cited for illustration, and not as being exhaustive. 282 MODERN TRAINING. CHAPTER XXIII. FIELD ETIQUETTE. There is no recreation which has more wholesome, pleas- urable, health-giving qualities than that of hunting, certain to the dog and gun, or his, in its remissive phases, more pleasant memories when the surroundings were pleasant and comfortable, and in its more strenuous phases, more repulsive if marred by the presence of a selfish, aggres- sive or noisy companion. Many accessory details contribute to the pleasure of the sport, such as the skill and intelli- gent dog ; the skill and knowledge necessary with re- spect to a gun ; the beautiful in nature ; the exhilaration from jumping over fences ; the enjoyment of the hunt- ing a sum total of pleasure which redounds to the health and happiness of the sportsman. Neverthelessthevery highest enjoyment from the sport when hunting in company, certain elementary prin- ciples of manner must be rigidly observed, otherwise the sport is spoiled. The sportsman who is not careful to observe no place are conveniencies more necessary than where the selfishness of all is directly opposed to a by common pursuit. From an experience with all sorts and degrees of sports- men, and a close observance of the individual peculiar characteristics of each, it appears that those who are able to frame a code of etiquette wherein will be aggregated all the perfections which constitute the refinements of ideal sports- men. To him who diligently observes them will come all BREAKING AND HANDLING. 283 the graces of a Chesterfield. They will also greatly add to the tyro's opportunities of learning how to deport himself properly in society, by the example of those who have already acquired the art, and by avoiding certain offensive violations of field etiquette to which beginners--some very experienced ones--are prone; such as the use of the word "yes" in answer to a question, and the expression of any kind of impertinence or rudeness. Without a knowledge of the unwritten laws and amenities of sportsmanship, the beginner, whether expe- rienced or inexperienced, will be apt to offend either by extreme forwardness or backwardness, or both ; for a painful and uncomfortable excess of modesty, or aloofness, may be equally disagreeable to his fellow-sportsman as to his host or his hostess. Sport which would be most pleasur- able in every feature under polite circumstances may be disagreeable when it is forced upon a man who has no companion. If a set of rules were deliberately presented to such to read, with certain marked passages in them which he might find difficult to understand, and which would improve it if he were not so self-complacent as to pre- clude all improving movement. The social surroundings in civilized society which will develop a man's real nature so thoroughly and accurately as shooting in company, or an outing in camp, will be found to be far more important than any one he shows to the world, one he does not hold, and one which he thinks he has. Too often the man whose nature is sunny and cheerful finds that he is not always so in company with those who are not so. He is astonished and unprepared for selfishness, fretfulness or aggres- siveness when circumstances afford him to discom- fort others. The sportsman is very careful in his choice of company. The man who is careless with his gun; who thinks that a hunt is synonymous with a chase; who thinks it is a shooting competition; who thinks it is solely for his own use and A page from a book about shooting and sportsmanship. 10 284 MODERN TRAINING. beliefs who thinks that the pleasure of the sport is ministered almost entirely by the dog, is a good man to encourage to go hunting with him. In every society, there are certain little related circum-stances which it may be proper to mention. There is no harm in this, but it is not necessary to dwell on it. The hunter knows his dog, and knows his proper time, place, and company; then it undoubtedly is esthetic, entertaining, and useful. But he has no importance in the matter. He is a mere accessory, and has per- petually obstructed into every conversation in every com- pany, in season and out of season. By far, any chance, the company of a man who can talk about dogs is a dog topic, the enthusiast is unhappy and bides his time usually to avoid diverting the conversation to his favorite theme, and the hunter is not getting so much approbation of the company when it is done. The principles, particularly the first principles, embodied in these remarks are very important to the sportsman. The author has seen them practiced with great nicety of precision and grace of manner in all kinds of bird shooting, they being adopted as a rule of conduct. It is impossible that two should co-exist with first principles. No man can be at a loss as to the correct caper in etiquette who has a copy of these rules; he will know how to act in all circumstances. A companion or a tutor; all this from a sportman's point of view. Having thus explained at some length the necessities and benefits of them, and knowing the advantages to sportsmen- ship that will accrue from their general observance, they are hereafter to be followed. As an essential principle, one which forms a broad ground- work for many other admirable qualities, you should begin and conduct your career on the assumption that you know everything appertaining to the dog and gun, a sportman's BREAKING AND HANDLING. 285 encyclopedia; and let your actions and discourse be consist- ent therewith. Hold tenaciously to your opinions. There are many who have been taught that the brain is a soft, thick, tough and flinty, having such copious layers upon layers and folds upon folds, that no rules bearing on the subject of the mind can be applied to them, because able to their consciousness. So entirely are they in the murky clouds of their own selfishness that they do not dis- tinguish between the two kinds of minds, the one being boggishness which they justly suffer in the estimation of hunting companions, and for perceiving their own low worth, and the other being the high-mindedness which they hope for, for it is very difficult to correct nature by art. When you are the guest of a friend, give your dog the freedom of the house ; but when you are the master of a dog, and let your manner be slightly amiable ; this will be sufficient reason for turning his home into a kennel. A gentleman who has been well treated, and enjoyed the hospitality and shooting afforded by your host, tell your friends and acquaintances that his dogs are worthless ; that he has never seen a dog worth anything ; that he that beat you out shooting during a day and out day out, and that he is an overtired sportsman in every respect. Your host will be much mortified at this; but he will say to you all the shooting because you were a guest; nevertheless, imply that the whole visit was a hot competition from start to finish ; that you had no time to rest ; that you were always pleasure, never dreamed of such ; but only ambitiously consoir his forbearance and courtesy to humility. You might as, an example, say that you had been so much in love with him, adversely every failing you could perceive in his dogs. You might even do this for the edification of your host personally. It would be a very gentlemanly return for his hospitality and cure. 280 MODERN TRAINING. When you visit a friend whom you know is always plen- tifully provided with food, and who has no reason to for- get yours, and as a guest you are sure to be supplied, the talk generally in respect to replacing them at some indefinite time in futurity by a similar one, will be very agreeable. But when you visit a friend whose food is scarce, and your confidence in his friend's loafing, and if you make your successful sales you can definitely attribute the to the superiority of his art, he will be so much the more glad at being associated with such in the art of hoarding, make some very beneficial gains in financial economy by their wiles and never every season. It is a trait worthy of praise. If your friend has a bear scented nicely, thus affording several nice shots, forthwith abandon your own range to go to him, and if he does not give you any shot to kill all that you can. Often friends need help, and it is surely friendly to then give it. If you have a bear similarly scattered upon your range, and if you do not need any help, and besides, you are the best judge of the situation. If you have been fortunate in marking blinds which your friend, who is in company with you, did not see, send him a few yards away to hunt in the place where they are not. When you return home and find that he has not found the place where you marked them, and that you are grieved that he did not get the shots. It is so subtle that your friend will not object, hence you can play the trick repeatedly. If your friend's dog points a bear, mention an incident respecting your dog pointing a bear. This was done once before and was taking a cast to them, be the same long or short, when your friend's dog stupidly pointed them. Let this incident occur to hide the weakness with every point, and soon to convince it. What your dog did in your mind BREAKING AND HANDLING. 287 In the abstract should certainly be more meritorious than what your friend's dog did in reality, the fancy more than that of the dog. Be officious and obstinate in arranging the route and its details. Make your companion's route subversible to yours. Such a course will make him a very useful servant, and his dog to retrieve suffer yours to go also; two dogs do so much better than one. Your friend may wish under the disadvantage of this arrangement to have some of the destinies of the adverse orthodoxy hereafter, but you will have the sublime solace of your own will. Wishing to give your friend the opportunity to kill a bird which your companion misses. When you succeed in "wiping his eye," give full and diligent play to your pet's eyes with a brush, and then let him see you take a bird. Tell your friends and his friends of it. Within the following weeks refer to the fact that you wiped his eye. In every case where you have occasion to wipe your friend's eye, you must be careful to wipe it yourself. Thus you will establish yourself as his guide, give full play to your excessive affection for your friend, and thus prevent the danger of your friend's unkindliness. The time-honored custom of "wiping his eye" is obsolete, but there is a worthy class which cherishes it as the sweetest morsel of food for their dogs. It is called "the dog's number," or "the numbers." Assuming an excessive affection of monkeys when the dog is pointing and your friend invites you to step forward and shoot. He will appreciate it, particularly if the dog has been pointing a long while, or if you have shot at him before. You will find that he will shoot eagerly, and act as if you expected to flush a flock of rataconites. It is very interesting to watch the extreme caution observed by some in flushing birds when no caution is necessary or desirable. 288 MODERN TRAINING. The delay, however, has some advantages—it will give the barks an opportunity to run still further, thereby affording excellent practice for the dog in his agility. It is well to provide that, from being disturbed, the barks do not rise out of range. Remember that the companion who, from a microphone, can hear the barks but cannot see them, is a relative failure with the purest race serenity of politeness is an educator; he educates his friends into shyness of his field society. Carry your loaded gun lightly and gracefully resting in the elbow, the barrels in a parallel line with the surface of the ground. The gun should be held at a right angle to your gun as cocked, so as frequently the style of some very good sportsmen who are authorities on this point, it will add materially to the effect of your shooting. As you silently shift his position to the opposite side, immediately shift your gun likewise. If he suggests that the gun causes him discomfort, then carry it in your left hand. If you don't, at the same time assume a mildly injured and strained air, assure him that you are noted for handling a gun with increasing care and skill. When you have assumed the positions of the gun to obey him—in two minutes he will back in his usual place, hearing on your friend with the same encouraging words as before. Then let him again carry your gun on your shoulder, and let the murderer sit squarely in your friend's face when he is walking behind you. When hunting with an experienced sportsman, if you happen to see his dog polling, be sure to call his attention to the fact. If he does not respond promptly to your calls these times, even more than may be understood you. This is particularly apropos if you are out with a professional trainer. The chances are a thousand to one that he saw the point before you did, probably saw the first signs the dog made of BREAKING AND HANDLING. 289 the recognition of the scent, but you will save yourself from any suspicion of madness. The proper form to observe is to exclude all other dogs from the room, and to have the dog in all wild or the dog timid, it is well to repeat this three or four times in louder tones. Every time you give the bird, stop and explain in elaborate detail just how exactlyously did you did. It will show that the miss, although a miss, is a commendable miss, and was made intelligently. You must not allow your dog to make two misses one either with the shot left out or which dropped out; nor the two halves between powder and shot or bad powder; hang fire, short shots, or any other fault. If the dog has been trained to work too cold a stock, or is not balanced properly; or the dog did not work just right; or the birds floundered in an unnatural manner; or the dog was not given a good start; or on the whole, the miss being so nicely executed, under adverse circumstances, that it unquestionably is superior to a clean shot by a man who has no knowledge of these reasons, as they are sanctioned by common usage in some very good circles. Your friend, however, will merely consider you mad if he does not understand why you are going to be delighted to listen to the descriptions and excuses after every miss. The many reason of want of skill or error may be excused; but if your dog is a good one would then increase your reason. Some very good sportsmen avoid the trouble of excuses or reasons by rolling out a roll of paper and writing on it "I am sorry," and this appears to be in the nature of a soliloquy and probably is due to an excess of self-consciousness. If you have a gun that is loaded when you and your friend's dog gets in front of you, ride over him if he happens to stop; or reach over and give him a vigorous poke in the ribs with the muzzle of your loaded gun. Carry your gun loaded when on horseback or in a wagon. 90 MODERN TRAINING. It will conduce to your friend's peace of mind, if he be requested you to train him in the art. You are perfectly competent to handle a loaded gun, even if the horse should run away, the wagon upset, or break down, etc. How I have trained my own horse, I will generally keep the dog going to every likely place but the place he is in. Have five or six places that you desire him to work in as the case may require, and make him go to each one as you can. If your friend's dog points when you are a quarter of a mile away, call loudly to your friend asking him to come and see what you are doing to walk, and make the pleasure divided a pleasure doubled. When you walk up to your friend's dog which is on a pole or in a box, and he is pointing at you, take your gun, with your fingers on the triggers, pointed downward toward the dog, and as you walk around him, keep the gun bearing on his head until he has pointed again. If the dog does not point prematurely, the dog is killed outright, hence there is no doubt of the effectiveness of the method. In your training of your friend's dog, by this means try to make it entertaining. Narrate some long-winded yarns of what you have done on some previous occasions. Become intensely absorbed in the narration, stop you from getting any idea that you let the dog go on. Your friend can have no greater delight than in devoting three-quarters of his time to listening to some great story about himself and self-justification. The dog is on a pole or bench, be sure to walk as quickly over him as you go forward to brush the horse. There is no limit of space between a pointing dog and the horizon, but there might be some time lost if you deviate a finger breadth from a right line. The order has been given with great exactness; time will be the credit of the per- BREAKING AND HANDLING. 291 former's determination to kill. It is particularly beneficial to puppies or timid dogs. Fear is a common companion at times. It is a del- icate, friendly familiarity, and the distress, anxiety or fear produced will be intensely amusing and refreshing. The fear of the dog is a good thing, but it must be considered. A friend who will not submit to some danger and who has no division of a friend is not worth buying. If fatal, it is "don't mean it" or "don't know it was bad." Many were purposely jumpy consider the trick as being one of the most dangerous things that can happen to a man, otherwise of the perpetrator what it may. The joke may know that the gun is not loaded, but the joke cannot possi- bly know that the gun is loaded. The dog's actions do not tend to alley his fears. No man can be consid- ered a true friend who will wantonly terrify a friend, or joppo- tate him with a stick when he does not need it. Always shoot on your friend's side of a bed. It is an unnecessary reinforcement to shoot on your own side, although his fright may be increased by your doing so. If you are a poor shot but a good and consistent climber of birds, it will add materiality to your success. Never go out with a dog on an important hunt or been competition or race. Banter your friend for a wager who you can beat him shooting; that your dog can beat his dog and win the race. He will love you dearly for many qualities which hags have not. Make him your constant with your liquority. It is pleasant or more conducive to success than an eternally pratling companion, particularly in cold, rainy or wet weather, when the birds are extremely wild. If you observe that your lack flanks the birds, you thus have a 39 MODERN TRAINING. subject of discourse for half an hour in assuring your com- panion that you know your talk did ill, and you regret it so much. Take the first shot invariably, and all of them if you can. You will be loved for an acquiescent quality common to cer- tain dogs, and you will be admired for your skill at killing go hunting, borrow your friend's gun and dog if you can. Ask permission to go hunting with your friend; for you can safely remove the two of them together only. If your friend desired your company, he would invite you; if you desire to go, you ask permission or cherthfully invite yourself. A man who has no friends is a man who has no being right, which is a very good average—and a friend is no advantage if you cannot use him. Always keep your gun clean. Open it and peer through the barrels, then slam it together. Cook it, pull the trigger, and snap it. Open it and slam it again. To do this several times is a good exercise. Repeat this process re- peated six times at least, assuming a becoming look of idleness during the performance; thus you will show that you know all about guns. BREAKING AND HANDLING. P53 CHAPTER XXIV. QUAIL, SNIP, FURLED GROUSE AND WOODCOCK. A description of the peculiarities of these birds will be confined to the habits of the quail, which is the most common of the four. The game birds commonly called quails in the North and partaking in the South are far superior to all others for training purposes. Their greater numbers, general distribution, habits and habitat render them unequaled, although they possess some disadvantages. In many sections of New England and the Middle States, where the country is hilly and broken, examples of this bird are very rare. In such places, when disturbed by shooters, quail shooting is pursued under many difficulties. From two to eight or ten bivies are about all that can be expected in any one day's shooting. This number being a very unusual one. In the Western States this is less difficult, and the birds far more numerous, although they are not so easily obtained as in the East. The character of the shooting varies greatly in different sections. Quail shooting in the South is the shooting par excel- lence, but it is not always successful. The reason for this is the existence and multiplication of the birds. When the close season begins at the North enforced by statute law, and the birds have been shot down during the summer and severe winters, quail shooting in the South is then at its prime. Usually the open season is limited to two or three months in the North, and many sections are periodically A black-and-white illustration of a quail. 394 MODERN TRAINING. forced to protect their hinds for two or three years at a time, in order to prevent them from being exposed to occasional severe winters. In the South, the season legally opens about September 1, and closes about March or April 1, depending upon the climate of the particular sea- son. The best months, however, are November, December, January, February and March. A horse that has been used is of prime importance to the best success. Cattle are early rams, and he who wishes to get the best shooting or of the most opportunities for his dogs is a given to use a ram that has been in the field during the best of the season. In the hot days of September, October, and early November, it is necessary, in training, to be ahead early in the morning, or in the cold part of the evening. Thus the ram will be found in the woods with his best birds for their purpose in any part of the day. From twenty to thirty birds may be shot on one day, and be found by the next day as seen before, and from twenty to hundred birds reward the efforts of the shooter. The birds are usually plentiful during every season, but when in such a season as occurs in several western states, they are scarce in great numbers. Quail shooting in the South may be said to be strictly upland shooting, differing in this respect from the fine sport of the West. In the South, there are no wet swamps at the first flight, and where it is necessary to pursue and diligently seek for them, if the success of the hunt is to be secured. In the South, the immense plantations, with their large sedge fields, plum thickets, cornfields, woods, large fallow fields covered with clover and hayfields, and also with the pea-patches and fields, sorghum fields, corn and wheat fields, Japanese clover, etc., furnish an abundant food sup- ply during the full, winter and spring. The habits of the birds are variable according to the means of supplying their BREAKING AND HANDLING. 795 nebbles. Early in the season the wheat stabbles, the edges of corn stalks, and the tops of the rye tickets, or the edges of wheat, or in the woods, are joined together with pieces of brush to make places to hunt, and occasionally they will be found in the cornfields. In the early morning, the peculiar whistling cry of "Bob-white" or "bob white," is heard in many directions far and near on a Southern plantation, and is often mistaken for the song of the birds of the belds. Later the songsters patches are favorite resorts, the birds being very fond of the seeds. In the last of No- vember and December, when the weather is cold and wet, the bob-white and the edge of woods, in fact, all where except the bare fields, are good hunting places if the weather continues open and clear. The bob-white is one of the most interesting of habits. In January and Feb- ruary the birds usually abandon the open fields, if the weather is inclement, for the time being, but as soon as growth commences they are discovered, although in the same South there is much variation in their habits; the tem- perature rarely being so low as to freeze them. The Southern bob-white is as shy as any other. In the South, the dog can have an education that will fit him for hunting. He can go in, he can open cover, heaves and scattered blinds, and he can be taught to work wide or close. The varying habits and increased cunning of the birds, as well as their increasing intelligence, make it necessary to train a dog intelligent and observing to acquire a knowledge of their habits. A manner of work which might be eminently suc- cessful in some parts of the country would fail in others. Changes in weather are frequent; it may rain or snow, or be hot or cold, rainy or windy weather. Changes from settled to unsettled weather in the late fall and winter months always make this a difficult task. Usually, in the South, the trainer or sportsman hunts from 296 MODERN TRAINING. horseshoe, or has a wagon to follow convenient roads through the plantation, but the conveyance for a relay of dogs. With a good horse, a trainer can train ten or twelve dogs during the summer and fall, and about eight on the winter. The number of dogs that can be trained at one time will depend upon the size of the field, how many horses, or if, backward, greatly increase the difficulty. Hunting from horseshoe back is the only way to get them started, and they must be kept in harness until they are well trained. The dog can be tied to the saddle. The hunter rides while his dog is ranging for cover. From the elevated position he can see the movements of the dog's long distance away. He has points in his mind as to what he wants to do, and this gives him reason much easier to find when. Thus the dog points, the hunter rides to within forty or fifty yards, throws the hounds into cover, and then comes up with them. The hounds are fastened to his neck and thrown on the ground, then he flashes and shoots. The scattered birds are then followed and given a chance to fly again before being shot. After finishing work on the scattered birds the hunter resumes and remains the hunt for heaven. Good dogs are very expensive; very few have the necessary requirements, namely, gentleness, endurance, intelligence, a good saddle gait and steadiness to the gun. A fine horse is also necessary. The horse should be left in a field till the hunter returns; this by simply dismounting and leaving him his freedom. A fast walk and a good first run is all that is required of him. It is not for this kind of work; and it is no detriment to him if he can jump a wide ditch or high fence. The introduction of wire fences is a great evil; they are too dangerous for dogs, yet the plantations are so large that the fencing is of no special consequence. A peculiarity of quails, c., holding their scent at times when they light after being flushed, is a source of bewilder- BREAKING AND HANDLING. 297 ment to the novice. This peculiarity is not as frequently observable as is asserted by some writers. After making a trip to the woods, the dog will often return with his nose to find a single bird. The dog will take his casts to and fro, wholly unconscious of the proximity of birds. It, un- der such circumstances, is difficult to say whether he has proper distance and keeps quiet until the birds begin to call, or can then return and secure a better position. Quarrels between dogs are not uncommon. Where permanent, the grounds so favorable for watching the work of a dog and for walking or riding; the birds are so game and cunning, yet so few are killed that they do not become accustomed to the dog, that it is not surprising that they are the game birds, faule principe, in the estimation of the professional hunter. Ruffled goose: while requiring a high grade of skill in both hunter and shooter, are very poor for training pat- roon dogs. They are not so easily shot as the pheasant, but the birds at all times, and their limited number and habitat, really make the training a special one, i.e., the dog has to be trained to shoot them. The woodcock is more than a greater caution and deliberation; the dogs are extremely rare which can hunt roosted woodcock at first place; such dogs require much practice. The woodcock is not worthy of consideration in dog training. The superiority of the shooting in the North is chiefly due to the fact that it is a game bird of the woods, and to the imagination of the shooter. In the last of December and early January, woodcock congregate in small flocks on marshy places near water. Such loca- tions near the Southern coast, frequenting such places as have an underground of clumps of briars, brush and patches of swells carry, or in woods which are comparatively open to the feeding grounds in that section are good. The most 298 MODERN TRAINING difficult grounds in that section are far easier to shoot on than the most favored grounds in the North. At such times as the shooting is at its best, from forty to eighty yards can be killed by a single gun in a day. In the author's ex- perience, the dog has been found to be more useful in the sport because very intershooting after the novelty wore off, and quail shooting had the preference. The birds being magisterial, and the dog having no other work to do, he The dog must be trained to work very close to the guns and the more intelligence he has, the better. Some shooters put a small bell in the dog when hunting woodcock and ruled groups of birds by this means, but this is getting out of the wheelbarrows of the dog. For instance, dogs are very indolent, owing to their erratic habits and migratory nature. On a windy or cloudy day, or a cold day succumbing warm ones, they are extremely wild, and in most instances rise out of their ground before they have seen any sign of birds within sight. If the dog manages to secure a point during the prevalence of such weather, he will remain there until extreme cold or heat or one of range. On warm, quiet days, or days when there is a gentle, mild breeze, the birds will lie very close, particularly if they have good feeding grounds and are not disturbed by noise. When they are on their hills bang pendulously, and the flight usually is short, sometimes but a few yards. When shooting, the better way when the birds are not too far away is to approach them at heel. Supple generally rise and fly a longer or shorter distance against the wind, hence a skilful hunter makes it a rule to approach his birds at heel. When they are far away, it is immaterial how they are approached, so far as the wind is concerned. On favorable feeding grounds they will come up to them if they are closely worked again and again by the water in favorable BREAKING AND HANDLING. 299 and birds plentiful, the flushed birds taking a short flight and dropping back of the shooter; others come in feed, The latter are more difficult to handle than the former, even in settled weather. Grounds which contain large numbers one day may have but one or two birds the next, or none at all. This is especially true of the woods, where the dog to point, or the sportsman to kill; at other times they are inconvenientally difficult. They change their feeding grounds from time to time, and this makes it necessary favoring the meadows, at others the wet uplands, plowed fields, or margins of small ponds. The shooting of woodcock is a very insignificant affair when compared to that of a very insignificant and Texas. It is near their southern migratory limit and they congregate in immense flocks in the fall. These flocks are often ample feeding grounds for them. After the heavy fall rains, sometimes in favorable seasons they are so plentiful that they can be shot by the hundred. A good day's shooting in a day to one gun is a common affair, and one hundred are not uncommon. There are authenticated instances where a man has shot 300 woodcock in a single day. The shooter in one day, he having two guns, which he shot alternately when one became overhunted. This kind of shooting is not common now, as many shooters use cartridges and spare guns, others to retrieve the birds. When the birds are so plentiful, a dog is wholly unnecessary except on occasion. The dog will not go after them unless he has had some success with them before. He will have more shooting then than he can attain to, if he happens to be favored with a good day. The fall shooting lasts from September until November. In the winter, there is more or less shooting that is considered very poor, but would pass for excellent at any season in the North. But it should be remembered that the winters in that section are very mild and open, the 20 MODERN TRAINING. temperate rainy drooping to the freezing point. During March and April, the dog is again good, although inferior to that of the fall. Often the hunter will find snipe in the cotton and sedge fields, while he is hunting for quails. They are very fond of these, and often become, in many instances, become very fond of hunting them, and by constant hunting learn all their favorite winter feed- ing-grounds. The hunter should always remember one of these grounds if in the vicinity, and will take a straight line to it, perhaps half a mile away. If he finds no snipe at this place, he may go to another, for a bird so common that it is not valued highly, and the shooting of it is much inferior to quail shooting. It is worth while to observe how well trained if he shows a disposition to press his dogs too closely, for such acts, if habitual, are destructive to the sport. When snipe are scarce, the hunter should not be too anxious to shoot them. An intelligent dog soon learns to work on snipe with greater caution and slowness than on quails, and if hunted on them when scarce, they will not be shot until the proper season, the slowness becomes habitual to the injury of the dog's work on quails. The heavy grounds also con- tribute to the difficulty of working snipe. The difficulties in the habits and manner of the bird and the unpleasantness of the work of walking in muddy marshes or heavy uplands, it is not a desirable bird to educate dogs on. The animal is shy, she does not like to be disturbed, and therefore she is far inferior to quails. It is quite fascinating for a few days when the birds are plentiful, but it soon becomes flat after the morning wears off, and quails will have a superiority by contrast. Trainee chickens require very little skill in man or dog early in life, though there is a great deal required in more endurance. The point of this bird is in the 300 BREAKING AND HANDLING. 301 prairie country of the center of the United States from and including Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin on the North to Kansas and Nebraska on the South, and from the Atlantic to the Pacific on the West. They are found in such great numbers that they have become a serious pest, and are so well adapted to the certain food supply that they are a very profitable game. The number of birds killed annually in this country is estimated at 50,000,000. This is a very large number, but it is only a fraction of the millions which are annually shot in Europe. The reason for this difference is that the English and Scotch gamekeepers have been more successful than our own in keeping down the population of these birds. In England, where they are known as "pigeons," they are considered a pest, and their extermination has been carried on with great success. In America, however, they have not been so thoroughly hunted, and consequently their numbers have increased greatly. The pigeons are very numerous in the central part of the United States, and are found in every state from New York to Texas. They are found in all parts of the country, from the mountains to the plains, and from the seacoast to the Great Lakes. They are found in every kind of country, from the prairies to the forests, and from the deserts to the mountains. They are found in every kind of climate, from the Arctic regions to the tropics. They are found in every kind of soil, from the sandy beaches to the rocky hillsides. They are found in every kind of vegetation, from the grassy meadows to the forested hills. They are found in every kind of animal life, from the small insects to the great beasts of prey. The pigeons are very numerous in the central part of the United States, and are found in every state from New York to Texas. They are found in all parts of the country, from the mountains to the plains, and from the seacoast to the Great Lakes. They are found in every kind of country, from the prairies to the forests, and from the deserts to the mountains. They are found in every kind of climate, from the Arctic regions to the tropics. They are found in every kind of soil, from the sandy beaches to the rocky hillsides. They are found in every kind of vegetation, from the grassy meadows to the forested hills. They are found in every kind of animal life, from the small insects to the great beasts of prey. The pigeons are very numerous in the central part of the United States, and are found in every state from New York to Texas. They are found in all parts of the country, from the mountains to the plains, and from the seacoast to the Great Lakes. They are found in every kind of country, from the prairies to the forests, and from the deserts to the mountains. They are found in every kind of climate, from the Arctic regions to the tropics. They are found in every kind of soil, from the sandy beaches to the rocky hillsides. They are found in every kind of vegetation, from the grassy meadows to the forested hills. They are found in every kind of animal life, from the small insects to the great beasts of prey. The pigeons are very numerous in the central part of the United States, and are found in every state from New York to Texas. They are found in all parts of the country, from the mountains to the plains, and from the seacoast to the Great Lakes. They are found in every kind of country, from the prairies to the forests, and from the deserts to the mountains. They are found in every kind of climate, from the Arctic regions to the tropics. They are found in every kind of soil, from the sandy beaches to the rocky hillsides. They are found in every kind of vegetation, from the grassy meadows to go2 MODERN TRAINING, who goes into the season to enjoy the shooting and cooler weather with his family, he repairs him for his trouble. Broken birds, wild birds and the most irregular and unsatisfactory sport in consequence, is then the rule. During this season the weather the chickens are comparatively easy for the dog to shoot, but they are not so good as in winter. Their flights are slow and short; but when the nights begin to get cold again, they become more active and their flights longer and wider, and in the last of August or early September, begin to pack; i.e., two or three covies will come in one flock, and as the weather gradually becomes more unpleasant and cold, so the birds become more active and their flights longer and wider. A cock or two may be found here and there, which will not mix with the flock. Thus all the birds of a certain section are shot at once, and this is very desirable. Frequenty the shooting then is very uncertain since the pack must be found before any shooting can be done. When the weather is very cold, however, the birds will fly straightway out of sight. If the hunter shall be so fortunate as to find it on a warm, quiet day, quite a decent, warm breeze is likely to prevail, and then the birds will fly shorter. If the pack lights in long grass and sea-crests after the first flight, the sportman may have shooting that will last several days. In this case it is well to take one, two or three at a time, and it requires a steady nerve and cool judgment to take skillful advantage of the opportunities that present themselves. But when the fall weather sets in, the birds become so wild and unapproachable that there is very little sport in hunting them. It is better to wait until spring. On windy days, the cornfields and swamps covered with long grass are favorite haunts in September. A section in which corn is largely grown is a very poor one for catching shooting. The birds fly to the cornfields and are thus safe. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 30 ever an occasional few that may be shot. On the whole, these birds are very lively, tattle, sport, and about all that can be said in their favour, and they are generally more useful than any other kind of game for the shooter. However, it requires a good man, dog and gun to obtain successful results after the chickens become strong and wild, and even then the sport is often rendered so superiorly unsatisfactory. Still there are persons who find it excels all others, and the shooting and the shooting itself is the best for him. Two hens, which are not afraid of the report of a gun, and a strong double spring wagon, are the best for catching them. The reason why this is so is that when a flock of chickens hunting, is indispensable to good sport, and no other should be accepted. His knowledge of the country, habits, and manner of these birds will enable him to make them invaluable. When the dog points, if a rolling or hilly country, the driver can take a commanding position on the edge of a hill or bank, and by throwing his shot at the sides of the wagon can mark accurately where they light. If the shooter is inexperienced, he will mark the birds mis- takenly, and if he has not a good knowledge of the place just like the one he marked the birds by, there being a great similarity in the characteristic features of the prairie, the shore of a lake, or a meadow. In such cases the shooter should mark it in a straight line with a straw or wheat stick, house, grove, or other prominent object some- where near by. He should then shoot at it directly; but if then approach them directly. Sometimes they light nearer than they appear to, at others times farther, the absence of all other objects makes it difficult to determine where they will timinate. When marking their flight the dog should not be taken off them for an instant, and only when they are seen to light, is there any certainty of estimating where they will be found. 304 MODERN TRAVELING. Some prairie hay should be laid evenly on the bottom of the wagon for the comfort of the dogs when riding to and from the hunting grounds, or when they are resting. The weather in August is invariably oppressively hot, and there- fore it is advisable to have water within easy reach at least one hour or two at a time. Plenty of water is indispensable. A bountiful supply should be provided before starting, par- ticularly in the case of dogs that are not accustomed to travel, or not uniformly good, some wells having an alkali or lime im- pregnation. Many horses in the country get their water from a spring, which may be several miles distant; while some depend on stagnant slough water; hence it is the shoer neglects to supply himself before starting, it may occasion great inconvenience. It is well to carry with you an abundance of water, and must have it work well. In the country, there is often great difficulty in caring properly for dogs, especially those belonging to the poorer classes of the family, who are frequently the most primitive and ineffi- cient character. When the frosty nights come, it is both cruel and unkind to leave them without shelter in unfrequented quarters. It is pitiful to see his stiffness and painful move- ments in the morning after sleeping beside some haystack or even a little grass. If he can be found where he can rest, he can be put, his crate can be placed on a bed of hay about two feet deep, and the whole covered with hay on the sides and top. This will keep him warm during the night's expe- ture just enough for the dog to crawl in and out. Hay is always abundant and cheap. If there is no crate, some boards or planks may be used instead of a crate. If the hotel did not afford a sufficiency of scampi, a couple of old Prairie chickens or some badly shot may be holed for such dogs. If there is no hotel, it is better to cook than eat it cooked, as there is every probability that a Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, or Dakota small country hotel will not BREAKING AND HANDLING. 305 have any scraps left—often times the table itself is an infe- rior gathering of scraps, and dogs or cats dependent on hunting for their food. Chicken hunting is the hardest of all hunting on a dog, hence he is entitled to every care. The broad prairie offers no difficulty to the hunter, but in the woods, where the weather is warm, the birds scarce, consequently there is very little to relieve the constant exertion. A wide ran- ging dog, well trained, will find his food in the most denied by exercise several weeks prior to the opening of the season. An experience on chickens is not much value as a preparatory experience for quail hunting. It brings the dog under control, but it frequently happens that a dog bro- ken on chickens will not hunt quails at all. In fact, ge- netically the dog begins on quails with the same degree of perfection that he enlaced on chickens. Practically, it has very little value as a preparatory experience. The hard work on chickens, the difference in climate, etc., unfits a dog for several weeks for quail shoot- ing in the South. 306 MODERN TRAINING. CHAPTER XXV. THE TRAINING OF SPANIELS. As compared with the setter and pointer, the spaniel has a limited sphere of usefulness. The dog is not so well suited to the gun as there are no so many complex details as the working of setters and pointers. The adherents of the pointer argue that the pointer's and setter's comparatively great range makes them less desirable for cover shooting as compared with the spaniel; but such is only partially true. Both the pointer and setter can be taught to range, but they can be educated to work their ground as closely as the spaniel and, for the matter of that, to flush birds which would otherwise be missed by the spaniel on order. On the other hand, the spaniel cannot take the setter's place as a finding dog. His usefulness is limited to such sections of the field as are covered by his own scent, and he is not so well adapted to cover as precludes the use of setters,—cover which is very rare. His small size and short legs enable him to take the thickets in bushy runs, but he is not so well adapted to cover as in loose brush, where he may be used for woodcock shooting, where one gun on each side, or a gun on one side, can command the width of the line. He is useful in point shooting, where the shooter must himself enter, the spaniel is then inferior to this setter. As he is out of sight also does not point as well as most setters. In the rough ground and woodcock sections, setters are BREAKING AND HANDLING. 307 used with admirable success, even in the thickest cover. Many shooters prefer to hunt a dog, in such cover, with a belt around his neck, which is fastened to a stick, and by giving notice of the whereabouts of the dog; and as the dogs are trained to work close in, when the bell is silenced the hunter can follow them without danger of being shot at by the dogs and flushes, or approaches as near as he can and orders the dog to flush. Setters or pointers which are hushed much in thick cover, will not go far from their master, seek ing the gun, and hold their point, or flush the bird to order with rare judgment, but to maintain a uniform grade of excellence in the training of these dogs, they must be encouraged for good work, and reprimanded for hesitation or wilful errors. This, by the way, to show that the setter is a perfect competitor with the pointer in the breaking of the spaniel, in the setter's sphere as a finding dog, is a weak competitor. The method of working quails is radically different from that employed in working setters or pointers. Spaniels do not point--they read their birds to a flush. Their range is very wide, and they may be seen flying over a kill for it is self-evident that if a bird is flushed out of shot, the opportunity to kill is lost. From their narrow ranges, they beat out the game on foot. The best way to train them is to have a well-trained team of men. It will thus be seen that as compared with training setters and pointers, it is easier to train all the dogs in breaking and far netting, pointing and backing, etc., the training of spaniels is a simple affair. It is no small matter, however, to train them just the right breed for this particular range of the game, and they should not be too fat nor working too close. They are checked and re- strained to this range until it becomes habitual, and they will work without any supervision. In reading, they should 308 MODERN TRAINING, not press their birds too fast, otherwise they get too far from the shooter and flush out of shot. A bell is useful, when hunting with dogs. Spaniels which give tongue find favor with many, but noise in bird hunting is entirely out of place. When birds are not plentiful, the hunter should have them an opportunity, which might have been the result of the work of the hunter, if not. The quail should be taught to retire; the system given hereunder applies equally as well to the spaniel as to pointers and setters. Nothing can be more helpless and at the mercy of his trainer as a pointer, setter, or spaniel, when under the control of a spike collar, therefore the trainer should hold all times in reserve until he has gained the confidence of his dog to frequent opportunity and slow progress than to violence and an intention to accomplish all in a few lessons. Chasing a dog is a very dangerous thing, the same method used with setters and pointers, will correct this fault. You should not forget that a dog can be broken from hunting one kind of game, but cannot be broken from hunting another kind. The same arrangement in breaking him from hunting one kind, may be broken from hunting all kinds. The choice of the species in their training with even greater advantage than in training setters and pointers; their pace is comparatively slow and their range is limited, hence the time required for training is less. The trainer demands that setters can be profitably taught to spaniels—the method is the same. There are many advantages in the United States which are favorable to the use of spaniels, and where there is such cover, there is also so much contiguous open country that the hunter needs a setter or pointer for a flushing dog. How- ever, cocker and field spaniels are coming into favor. The BREAKING AND HANDLING. 359 distinction between the two in this country is more in the weight and size than in the type of the cocker, although there is a positive distinction with respect to the two latter. Some breeders have been striving to establish a type, having as extreme length of neck and head as possible, but this type is an advantage in a working dog, the author has never been able to understand. Either the cocker or field quail may be found in any part of the United States, that game birds are found in, at the extreme length of body and shortness of leg are to reduce their speed, the breeder who desires to know how of how a dog's efforts can be controlled and guided by the trainer. They are bright, affectionate and neat dogs, very com- passionate towards children, and are generally thought to they being very intelligent. Black spaniels have the great- est uniformity in type amongst cockers; other colored cock- ers vary in type as to an assuring degree. The cocker is a small dog in weight of a small or medium sized setter, and works mute. 318 MODERN TRAINING? CHAPTER XXVI GUARD DOGS. The guard dog does not undergo a regular, formal course of training at the same time and position which is necessary for field work--which is usually the case with dogs being used as companions of him continuously, thus affording unlimited opportunities for him to exercise his judgment and in- sistence. St. Bernards, mastiffs and Great Danes find great favor as house and guard dogs. It is a mistake, however, to sup- pose that the St. Bernard is the best dog for this purpose. The mastiff, Great Dane or St. Bernard. Lazy, stupid or physi- cally inferior dogs are quite as common in these breeds as in others. The St. Bernard is more valuable than in one used as a watch dog, and its noise is a good temper more desirable. A vicious temper is no indication of cour- age, often being due to a lack of experience and training in time of danger. A vicious dog is wholly unfit for a companion for children; however, the St. Bernard and mastiff are excellent companions for boys and girls, and attachment, the Great Dane generally so. The mild tem- per and cool judgment which a guard dog must preserve even if he be attacked by a wild animal is very rarely mentioned except as for desperate courage and destro- tiveness, they are surpassed by some other breeds; never- theless, a mild, watch dog is sufficiently fierce if he be per se once thoroughly aroused as it is certain to be if the BREAKING AND HANDLING. 311 master he loves is assailed, or any attempt made to injure children he loves, he will attack with great and plumeate. It is the nature of all dogs, so far as they are not trained, that when a fence is threatened to the master or the household, to take the defender of his family. To give a correct education, it should begin from early puppyhood, the dog having his liberty, and instructed mere by occasional rewards, by checking and encouraging as occasion requires, than by punishment. He, by association, learns the everyday routine of the householder, the duties of its members, and learns how who are strangers, not to be feared, and how those who are suspicious in appearance and those which are not, probably being added in this by observing the air with which they approach him. He learns also that he must refrain from his own powers of observation, learn what are usual incidents and what are unusual, thus showing powers of dis- crimination. The guard dog should, however, be taught to obey the common orders, such as "Come here," or "Come in," "Bring me that," etc., and to perform them with the same being the same as laid down for the training of setters and pointers in like harness. Nothing is more destructive to a large dog's amiable and usefulness than to keep him chained, and nothing is so unwise or so quick to superinduce viciousness as to tease and worry him. The dog is not only made to suffer physically if perspired in, large dogs not enduring the con- dition without injury. If chained during puppyhood, they are made to grow up with a disposition to bite, claw, rictify, or twisted out of shape, and are predis- posed to acquire a scowling or anxious expression of face which detracts from their amiable and gentle quality. Only by thus treating the dog as a companion can he be made an 312 MODERN TRAINING. Intelligent guard dog, and but little should be expected of him until he has experience and judgment of maturity, as no dog is capable of filling an office of so much responsibility before maturity. MUDERN TRAINING. 313 CHAPTER XXVIL THE TRAINING OF FOXHOUNDS. A very essential thing to the value and working capabili- ties of the foxhound is the quality of blood. Any owner who re- sides where foxes, or other hounds, are plentiful, will have good field dogs if they are properly bred. Hounds do not require the careful training that is given to greyhounds, but they must be well bred. If they are only taken to game and let alone, they will generally make good dogs, yet the manner of doing this will require some skillful management which will be here- inafter described. Too much care therefore cannot be taken in selecting and breeding the stock. The best breeders are those who know requires natural qualities in their highest perfection, it is the breed of foxhounds, particularly those which are used to red foxes. The difference between the red fox and the black much difference about the pure breeding of dogs which are used to hunt deer, bear, wild cats or grey foxes, or for dogs that are used to hunt red foxes. It is not necessary the hand of a shooter, and hence not strictly for the chase. Hounds for catching red foxes should be selected from the best stock of red foxes. A dog which has no natural excellence should be breeding a uniform good lot, not a large litter with one good one in it, but a litter of at least, good ones and the majority of them close on each other. In this way you must select stock when you know has high 314 MODERN TRAINING class natural qualities in physical structure and powers, added. This requires that the prime factor in fact, the breeding of foxhounds requires all the care and skill that is exercised in maintaining and improving other breeds. As to the qualities to be desired, the hounds should be bred and trained so that they work almost as fast at the high class foxhounds as at the lower ones. They must be strong enough to strangle and trail up a fox, in favorable weather for hunting, which has passed along from twelve to twenty-four hours after the first scent was found. They must be able to gather, pick out the trail accurately and quickly—not scatter all over the country and go like wild dogs; but if the trail is too long, they should not be allowed to follow it enough to know it, but should stick to it until they get the course of the fox and go on circling from it for a mile or more if necessary. In this way they will learn to hunt well. They should be dogs which would persist in trailing and working this way all day if necessary—not stop and give up at an hour or two after starting. I like a dog with a clear, loud voice, one that gives tongue very freely while trailing and running, but not one that gives tongue when he runs over the track, and has lost the scent. In chasing the red fox, when he is jumped, the pack should be very fast and close together, so that they can close up to the tree where the loss of it, they make wide circles for it and not turn too straight back; and if you have a dog who is too slow, one that does not pack well, one that runs over behind his master's back, such a dog should be killed, not given to some friend who will probably breed him into his line. For red foxes they should be able to run a trail from beginning to end of a day without stopping if necessary. On favorite days, a first class pack rarely A blank, light pink page. AMERICAN BUSHHOUND BREAKING AND HANDLING. 15 always catches a red fox from two and one-half to four hours, but to do this they must make no mistakes and have favorable weather. One bad run over, or loss, almost always causes a change in the disposition of the dog, and he will not want to go back again until he has had another good run. To run a good red fox for death that has got the advan- tage of a young pack in any way, you need dogs that will catch him at once, and that is very often necessary. To make a success of hunt- ing red foxes, there should never be under eight good dogs on the ground, and these should be well trained. A good dog can have twenty or more good ones. One poor dog in a chase does much more harm than good. We are all aware that the best way to keep the lives of our red foxes as we are of saving our pocketbook. I hope the Eastern hunters will adopt the plan of having more and better dogs. We will now consider the subject of training. A fox- hound puppy should not be allowed to run any until he is about eight weeks old. The puppies should be kept up and well fed until healthy and strong. When they are first taken on the ground, they should be given a good start, old, steady broken hounds which you expect to train them with regularity, and they should first be run on rabbits after every other kind of game. One of the most important things to remember when teaching these dogs is that if they are enduring the work well, until you get them so they can stand six or eight hours' good hard work without getting tired, then you will always be in company with the broken foxhounds that they are to be broken with. While they are taking their first experiences with rabbits, 316 MODERN TRAINING. they should be taught to come to the blast of the horn or a call, and should be allowed to follow you on horseback around the yard, and to run with you when you go for- low and not get lost. When they are about one year old and are well advanced in chasing rabbits, they should be taken out into the woods, where they may chase foxes, cats, if any are available. They never should be allowed to run a red fox until they are about eighteen months old, or so fall off from the young ones. They should run at least twelve hours in a fast, closely-contested chase with fast hounds, and never should be taken out again, after a chase, until they have been given a rest of two or three days. A cat, as mentioned before, they should be accompanied by thoroughly broken, good, steady, working old dogs; not very far from home, but not too near their own kennels. They never quit following or trailing for twelve or fifteen hours, unless they capture their quarry or are stopped. The rea- son that I do not allow them to run with young dogs is simi- lar to that which I give for running with young horses; viz., because I want broken dogs which they can keep up with, and therefore can do some of the work them- selves; and also because they will not be able to run down from their great efforts to keep up, or even be thrown out and learn to quit. They rarely ever forget their first lesson in this matter; and although they may stop at first, they frequently retain them through life. When first taken out with broken dogs as already explained, they should be kept in the same place for several days. An assistant is necessary in training puppies. He can ride in on the broken dogs, occasionally blowing the horn for the people to follow him; and he must always be ready to catch anything that may fall into his hands. If anything is dropped by any of them, he must pick it up and give it back to them without saying a word of anything they may be after. After the old dogs have struck a trail, the hunter should follow and encourage them a little, but do very little following; the others remain back and close the puppies in with the old dogs. They will BREAKING AND HANDLING. 317 often learn to love the trail of a fox and will stay with the old dogs without much trouble. They should never be put to work until they have been well trained by their owner or trainer; they should be permitted to have their own way as much as possible. Remember that when you begin to game your hunt you will gradually break them, and if they are whipped too much or beaten too quickly, they will not make fast hunters and good strike dogs. The best way to train a young dog is to keep him with old dogs which were hard to break, and, in fact, were thoroughly broken till they were about three years old. My own experience has shown me that the best way to train a puppy is to keep him with old dogs. Old dogs have taught me that it requires plenty of time and patience, and that a dog should be allowed to have his own way as much as possible. I have found that it is better to let him and develop his natural capabilities to the utmost. Of course, a puppy can be trained easier and quicker by start- ing him at an early age, but the most important thing is that the greater number trained after such a manner are worthless brutes. Many people believe in raising puppies and old dogs after a drug a great deal, but I do not believe in allowing a pack of hounds to run drugs much, for I have seen good packs come back with no dogs at all. It is very important that they could not catch a good running red fox. They always seem to run over very badly, and form many bad habits from this cause. A puppy should be kept with old dogs when young puppies, it should be in company with old dogs which stick close to the track, and ones which cannot out- run them. A puppy should never be allowed to run with one who is afoot, and should never be dragged in a road or pathway. The man should drag it about in circles as near after this course as fine time as possible, through shrubets, and never in a straight course. 318 MODERN TRAINING. In breaking and hunting, when a dog strikes a fox trail, give him plenty of time to run. It has been decided which way the fox has gone. Do not commence hounding the hound and he will almost always learn to take the right end of the track, and, if so, he will not be able to follow the dog on any one of the tracks that they may go. The hound should always remain behind his dog, try to keep them as close together as possible, and let them run down the trail. If they do not bark, then it is better to call them back together and let them nose out the track accurately, if possible to do so. A hunter that always thinks he knows exactly where the quarry is going, is a bad hunter. He should never have his dogs on from trail to trail, never has a first class pack of trail dogs. It is true that very often, after this manner, he jumps over the foxes, but this is only because he does not know where game is very scarce; he will more frequently spoil a good day's sport; moreover, after harking his dogs off a cool trail in a hot day, they will not work at all. Any well bred pack of hounds is broken and handled properly should be, in favorable weather, work and rest alternately. They should not work more than two hours old, and to get them to do that you must stay behind them, give them lots of time, try to keep them very close together. In this way they will learn to follow each other in catching red foxes as they have good starts, ones that will run very close together. If there is a dog in your pack which is too slow or too fast, you should either run or run close with them, it would be best to kill him. One bad "run-over" dog will often ruin a large pack, and with a few such loose dogs in a pack it is impossible to catch any red foxes. While the pack should run well to-gether and very fast, they should not "run-over" and make bad losses of time. It is now apparent that, to endure the fatiguing exertion BREAKING AND HANDLING. 315 and to train puppies properly to run long, hard races, they should be strong and have the necessary age before starting them on any race. I have seen many a good dog, a fine dog, that has been trained by a bad trainer, and has been made to run dogs, so that they will learn no bad habits. I do not think any pack should ever quit running until it catches or trens whatever it may catch. A dog that is not well trained, and that you must have good blood in it. Kill any dog that will quit before he is stopped or catches his game, for he will run some more than he can possibly live. A hunter should always endeavour to keep within hearing of his pack, and never go home and leave them running. If they have to be kept away from their own home, they should be brought back at night. For good killing dogs for bears and deer, they should be trained and handled precisely the same as in hunting foxes excepting that the hunter should always be with them; they should be good stayers in a chase; they should always stop running after a deer, if he is not wounded, within one hour; for if you do not hold him up, he will run off and get lost; but this is only that it is difficult to get such a track; the greater number of times they run off some ten or twenty miles. If game is plentiful, it is better to keep the dogs back in the drive and jump another deer. HICKORY VALLEY, TEXAS Mr. Avend's attainments as a trainer and field trial handler are well known, his success with wild, wild and domesticated dogs in his dog kennels for many years being a feature in the chronicles of field sports and within the personal knowledge of the larger part of sportsmen; yet except in this work it is not generally known that Mr. Avend is a hunter, and accursed plush, deer and bear hunter, an owner of hounds for many years and a recognized expert, should be credited with the full measure of worth to which it is properly entitled. B. W., . 320 MODERN TRAINING. CHAPTER XXVIII MICROCATEGORIES. With respect to guns, it can be set down as the sumptuous of rules that it is always better to buy one manufactured by a reputable manufacturer than to make one oneself. The gun distributed throughout the country, every country hardware store or general store having a stock with every imaginable kind of gun, is not worth the trouble of purchasing as a gift, unless it is a very good gun, and well balanced, and soon become shaly and unsafe, if not so at the beginning. These remarks, however, are intended to give the gun buyer some idea of what he may expect from the powder charges, gauges, etc., for different kinds of shooting. The subject with respect to gauges, weights, makers, etc., is too large for this place. It will be found that one, there being no end to opinions and controversies. In practice, there are certain data which afford ample informa- tion on the subject of gauges. The principal cause of failure or kill is that the gun is not held aright. For general shooting, that is quails, chickens, ducks, snipes, etc., the twelve gauge is the best. A more scientific approach to the properties of all round gun, namely, weight, effectiveness and economy. To the sportman who indulges his fancy in a gun, with a limitation relating to ways and means, the twelve gauge is the gun per excel- BREAKING AND HANDLING. Lience for general shooting: As to the weight, he must be governed by his physical capabilities, the weight of pos- sible shot being the determining factor. A light gun will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-third of the weight of a heavy one, and will be about one-thirds 322 MODERN TRAINING compared to the bulk of the shooting. The average limit is from fifteen to twenty-five or thirty yards. If a fair marked gun is used, and the shooter has a good knowledge of shooting such a close sum of shot at a quail will be evident. A large percentage of birds are so mutilated by the use of such guns that they cannot fly, and many of these ones wholly destroyed. The author had the full choke mania some years ago, and for no other reason except that others were using it, but now I have changed my character of his shooting changed. Shots that previously were easy became extremely difficult. Birds were blown to atoms, or partially killed, and the game was scattered over long ranges, yet the gun with all its attachments of full choke and heavy power chamber was cherrished, simply because it was the fastest and most accurate gun available. It seemed to game, but a question of slow pattern. By constant use, many faults were to a certain degree corrected, but there were always some remaining which made it less than perfect fitness. The elements of the shooting were forced to fit the special features of the gun instead of having the gun adopted as a general rule. In this way, after a year's persisiting in the delusion about five years, the gun was bored out to a modified choke. This was a great gain, and im- proveded the results considerably. A twelve gauge gun which will nicely distribute its load of one and one-quarter ounces of No. 8 shot, and place two hundred and fifty yards from the bird to forty yards, is amply sufficient for upland shooting. The sixteen gauge should be about six pounds in weight, twenty-two inches in length, and have a barrel from four to two and three-quarter inches of powder, and three-quarter inch to seven-eighths ounce of shot is said. It is very difficult to get a responsible manufacturer to make a cylinder bore. The popular estimate of a gun's worth is the closeness of its BREAKING AND HANDLING. pattern at forty yards, and a maker dislikes to send out a gun which makes a pattern which might be considered inferior. The economy of the gun is another point, and the comfort and ease of carrying a sixteen gauge is much in its favour, and its capabilities are adequate to the requirements of quick shooting. A twelve gauge is better to own special guns, a sixteen, ten and twelve gauge. The ten gauge should weigh from nine to ten pounds, and is superior to the twelve gauge, being from four to six drams of powder, and an ounce and one-quarter of shot. The smaller bores will shoot small sizes of shot, but the larger bores will shoot large sizes of shot, and the killing circle is less. The larger sizes of shot can be used better in the ten bore. As for the smaller bores being equal in shooting power, this is not so, for the larger bores have more powder, lead, bone and metal; so palpably an advantage, else there would not be any more force in a can than that in a pint. The length and drop of stock must be determined by the sportman himself. Every one has some peculiarities of physique, and every gun will fit properly, and the fitness can only be determined by actual trial either with an adjustable gun which large or small size of shot may be used, or with a gun which is one out of a large number. In shooting, it is a matter of prime importance to have a gun which is so shaped that it can be held securely in the hand. Usually the large manufacturers or their agents give a discount of twenty-five or thirty per cent. from the list price, plus 50 cents on each barrel. This means that thirty-five or thirty-seven dollars and fifty cents. This is as low as a purchaser should go in price if he wishes to get a serviceable, reliable gun. The cheaper grades of American guns are far superior to those of foreign make of like grade. 394 MODERN TRAINING. in respect to price ; but in the high grades, from three hun- dred dollars up, the foreign guns made is the best. From one hundred to two hundred dollars, for two hun- dred dollars, the quality of the gun rapidly improves, but not in a regular ratio; for instance, there is a vast differ- ence between a five dollar gun and a fifty dollar gun, and a fifty dollar gun and a one hundred dollar gun, but there may be only finer grades of the same material in a one hundred and one hundred and fifty dollar gun than in a fifty dollar gun. Beyond the latter price, the value is chiefly in fine engrav- ing, rare wood in the stock, and costly finish and finishings. The prices of these guns as a sportsman needs can now be bought of America made from several prominent manufacturers, for one hundred and fifty dollars, and for two hundred dollars, they are com- pared with the English high grade guns, and there is not the extreme difference that is commonly ascribed to them. A very small number of American guns are imported. If a number of the higher grades of American guns and a like number of foreign guns were placed in a dark room so that the eyes could not see them, it would be difficult if not impos- sible enough to determine the difference in them if re- stricted to determination by the balance alone. The Ameri- can muskets are made of wood which is hard and durable, the metal parts are finely fitted, artificially finished, nicely propor- tioned, and shot equal to the best. If two guns, of equal weight and size, are compared by their appearance, on the hinges, there cannot be a great difference in the handling of them even if one bears the name of an English maker, the other being made in America. In this case it is neces- sary, the exquisite, poetical, ethical, dreamy balance is unnecessary for good shooting, particularly if it is neces- sary to pay two or three hundred dollars extra to secure it. The extra price is sure to react on the imagination of the BREAKING AND HANDLING. 315 purchaser in such a manner that he can perceive a delicacy of balance which is superior to all others. In judging the quality of a gun, one should pay to the weight of powder and shot charges which are to be used in it. Different charges require a special boring to perform at their respective distances from the breech. The partit- tories will shoot one certain load better than any other, and such as a matter of course, is the best load for it. Some guns will shoot well with a 10 grain charge, while others need two or three. The best load can only be determined by repeated trials. Two ordinary field woods or one thick over the powder chamber, and one thin over the shot chamber, is suffi- d necessary for ordinary shooting. In early shooting, many good field shots but one felt wad over the pow- der, and it appears, from the successful results, to be simply sufficient. For chickens, no shot is short enough easily in the sea- son. No wood is so good as a field wood for this purpose. For snipes and woodcocks, y's and r's are no ad- vantage. For quails, it's and y's, the former being size used almost always in the latter part of the season. In bad weather, when strong and well fed, quails will often fly a long distance before falling, when hard with y's or s's, and occasionally they will not even take off without giving the uniformity in cleaning them the best chance. There are several important items of information con- cerning the care of guns which should be known by every man who wishes to know before starting on a long railroad trip with dogs in chase. Always give the preference to a road that runs through a country where there are few trees. In some places cars are very inconvenient and sometimes occasion un- necessary delay. Nearly all roads refuse to assume any responsibility for dogs, or their handling or baggage. They are strict simply as a matter of courtesy. If there is a 32 386 MODERN TRAINING. change of cars there is always enough to engage the sta- tion baggagegman's attention, and any request for assistance must be made with promptitude. There is no time to adjust differences. The delay of a minute may be the cause of a missed train. Long, slow, and weary journeys are the dog's sys- tem, particularly if he is nervous and fretful. During the stops for meals, the owner or man in charge can take him out for a walk, but this is not necessary, as it is un- cessary art of defecation. Many dogs will retain urine and face an injurious long time, if confined in a crate, thus suf- fering an increased loss of water. It is advisable to allow several days to recover. Sometimes a bad diarrhea is caused by subjecting to the dog out of his crate as it mentioned in the last paragraph. He will suffer less from before starting, and during the journey. Give a few scraps of meat and all the water he needs. He will suffer less from the effects of heat if allowed to drink freely. No sportman should think of traveling with a dog without putting him in a crate for protection and to keep against injury. A crate should be made com- fortable and easy to handle. It may save the hunter a great deal of annoyance also, for some railroads will not carry dogs who are not properly crated. Dogs that are carried with heavy baggage, or dog on chain is in constant danger of injury or loss of life from falling tracks, or others being thrown overboard. In such cases the dog's life is endangered and circumstances is not infrequent. Moreover, he is constantly in the way of the baggagegman, and is frequently a sufferer in consequence of his presence. The dog has no right to use the gentlest means; his fact he is generally so hurried that it is impossible for him to do so. A gratuity at the start is a very discreet act, if any favours or attentions are desired. There is no a day on any of the great lines but what there BREAKING AND HANDLING. 57 are special personal claims on his attention, and naturally they grow enormous. Unless he is rewarded, there is no reason why he should not be. He is more valuable to man than hosts of others. As a class, if treated courteously and considerately, they are obliging. That they should not always be so, is a matter of indifference. They are good causes. Their experience with dog owners is not always of the pleasantest kind. They meet the individual dog or owner who has been the most ungrateful, the loudest moment; then there is the imperious gentleman who thinks the presence of his dogs paramount to all other business; and then there is the man who, when he sees there is the gent who is polite, but persists in telling the antecedents of his dog a misleading length; and there is the man who, when he sees that the dog is a nuisance by reason of tarry or grumpy. Nearly all roads have an established tariff on dogs, which in most instances goes to the bag- age-owners. The dog owner must pay this tariff, unless the owner or his agent signs a form releasing the road from all liability for death, injury or escape. It is very un- pleasant to see a man with a dog who does not sign such a railroad officials with a certain class of sportsmen made this protective course necessary; thus all have to suffer for the act of a few. The cost of this protection is high; the tariff is very oppressive. One or two are allowed to go free by most roads; when the sportsman has more than one number, it becomes very expensive. This is a great injustice, and makes special assistance of possible benefit to starting. If the journey is long, it is particularly desirable to get full information. Some sportsmen, however, will carry for two dogs— over that number they will not carry. It is obvious that if a hunter had a ticket over such line and had more than two dogs with him, he would find himself very unpleasantly 358 MODERN TRAINS— circumstances. Also some roads will properly refuse to carry hogs which are too large. All these matters are very simply, apparently, but they assume a great importance five minutes before train time in a strange city. A good car for carrying hogs is light. It is light in weight, strong and durable. The dimensions are as follows: Height, 66 inches wide; 25 inches length; height, go inches. The floor is 10 inches deep. The bottom is made of 2x2 inches. The bottom strip should be 6 inches wide to keep the dog's feet or tail from slipping out, and also to retain the bedding material. The sides are made of pine boards. Board diagonally across the top give the dog a sure stayfulness. Light weight nails or screws are best for fastening. A good car for carrying hogs has a low ceiling, no latches, no hinges, no locks. A small box, opening on the top, and made of a part of the crate, is convenient for carrying food, chain, etc. A light crate is easy to handle, is more comfortable in use than the ordinary type. When hogs are sent by express, double first class rates being the ex- pressage of dogs. Painting protecting crates from dirt and water is necessary. A good car for hogs is one able on the score of neatness. A case made of oilcloth or other waterproof material can be made to answer to the top and sides of the crate. The driver must be careful when driving from place to place on stormy days, or in changing cars where there is a walk of several hours and the weather is rainy or wet. In such cases it is well to have a shelter where there is no shelter for hogs, the crate, thus protected, is im- pervious to rain or wind, and is a very good kennel for the time being. The driver must be careful not to let his curiosity be so obvious as to be irritating impertinence, and it is a source of constant annoyance, a crate having shafts in interior to prevent a solid seat from being used with such a skid closely grated, although the inner is not so comfortable Dog crate. Blank white paper with a few faint smudges. BREAKING AND HANDLING. 331 in hot weather. Some sportmen use crates with a false bottom under which are placed wooden springs, which add greatly to the dog's comfort. There are some faults occasionally exhibited by the dogs which do not belong under the head of training, but which need correction when they appear, namely, killing chickens and sheep. If the dog kills chickens, make an effort to prevent this by giving him a good scolding and tie the rope around your waist, thus merely to hold him. Both hands are then used. Take the chicken in one hand and the dog in the other, and while holding the dog, beat with the chicken, and at the same time give a severe cut with the whip. While and solicit alternately. Graduate the severity according to the degree of viciousness determined by his disposition, number of offences, etc. The principle is identical with that of breaking a dog from chasing sheep. For chasing sheep, the dog must be suddenly thrusted if caught in the act. Then put a line on him and lead him towards the sheep. If he does not chase them, repeat the whippings; continue the treatment till he will shrink at sight of them. While giving the whippings, repeat the words "Go after them," "Go after them," as is preferred, to make the dog desist. He will soon learn to heed it. If a dog acquires a habit of sheep-llling through this means, it is well to take him away from them and usually select the night hours for his depredations. When his master is present he may not notice them. Bad management will only increase their viciousness. If the dog cannot be caught in the act, there is no certain way of breaking him off. Hunchmouth, I have seen several cases where a man was attacked by two dogs, one sub- lar the other end to the horns of a strong ram, the seventh jerking and consequent terror caused by the efforts of this A dog chasing a sheep with a stick. 137 MODERN TRAINING. ram to butt the dog being considered effectively curative. As a matter of opinion the author would consider it to be of doubtful efficacy. The dog is too intelligent to be detected by the sheep, and the sheep will not object to tying a piece of sheepskin to his mouth so that the taste and annoyance of the wool will create a dislike to catching sheep. A blank, light-colored page with a faint, horizontal line at the top.