SPORTING DOGS

SPORTING DOGSPhoto by T. Fall, Baker St.][Frontispiece.Head of Bloodhound Champion Sultan.SPORTING DOGSTHEIR POINTS: AND MANAGEMENT;IN HEALTH, AND DISEASEBYFRANK TOWNEND BARTONM.R.C.V.S.Veterinary Surgeon to the Gamekeepers' Kennel Association Veterinary Adviser to the "Gamekeepers' Gazette"AUTHOR OF"NON-SPORTING DOGS," "TOY DOGS,""EVERYDAY AILMENTS AND ACCIDENTS TO THE DOG,""SOUND AND UNSOUND HORSES," "OUR FRIEND THE HORSE,""BREAKING AND TRAINING HORSES,""HOW TO CHOOSE A HORSE," "THE HORSE OWNER'S COMPANION,""THE VETERINARY MANUAL," "THE AGE OF THE HORSE,""DISEASES AND ACCIDENTS OF CATTLE,"ETC., ETC.COPIOUSLY ILLUSTRATED FROM PHOTOGRAPHSLondonR. A. EVERETT & CO., LTD.1905[All Rights Reserved]Surely the lines—"Trust, oh! trust me, I will beStill true for ever, true to thee."have never been more practically demonstrated, than in the following extract, from an account of a poaching affray, published in theGamekeepers' Gazette."The dead gamekeeper's dog was to be seen by the roadside restlessly waiting for its master, while he lay in a cottage fatally riddled with shot."TOBREEDERSExhibitors, and FanciersOFSPORTING DOGSthroughout the King's DominionsPREFACEThis work—Sporting Dogs: Their Points and Management in Health and Disease—has been prepared as a companion volume to those already published, viz., Non-Sporting Dogs: Their Points, etc.,andToy Dogs,in response to numerous inquiries from readers of those volumes, asking for a work upon Sporting Dogs, to complete the series, at a proportionateprice.The Pointsof the various breeds used by Sportsmen have been freely discussed, supplemented by illustrations from photographs of the most celebrated animals known.Kennel Management, The Management of Hounds, Diseases, Accidents and Simple Operations forms an important section of the work—features that should render the book of far greater practical utility than one dealing solely with the different varieties of dogs.Both Author and Publisher, will be satisfied, if it meets with the hearty reception accorded to the companion publications.In conclusion, the Author wishes to express most hearty thanks to all Breeders and Exhibitors who have so generously supplied him with Photographs: toOur Dogs Gazette; The Kennel Gazette; The Gamekeeper,etc.CONTENTSSECTION APAGEChapter I3The PointerHead—Colour—Eyes—Back—Hind-quarters—Faults—Value of Points.Chapter II18The English SetterLaverack Setters—Coat—Colour—Skull—Ears—Eyes—Neck—Back-quarters—Tail—Fore-limbs—Weight—Faults.The Irish SetterCoat—Ears—Eyes—Neck—Forelegs—Loins.The Black=and=Tan Setter (Gordon Setter)Eyes—Ears—Head—Neck—Shoulders and Chest—Fore-limbs—Feet—Back—Loins—Stern—Value of Points.Chapter III32International Gundog LeaguePointer and Setter SocietyRules—Rules for the Trial Meetings.Chapter IV42RetrieversFlat-coated: Coat—Head—Ears—Eyes—Chest— Neck—Back—Loins—Limbs—Faults.Curly-coated.LabradorsRules of the Retriever SocietyChapter V66SpanielsGeneral Characteristics of the different Varieties—Temperament—Coat—Colour—Head—Ears—Fore-limbs—Body.The ClumberWeight—Head—Ears—Eyes—Coat—Neck—Club.The Sussex SpanielColour—Coat—Weight—Head—Eyes—Ears—Nose—Neck—Shoulders and Chest—Fore-limbs—Faults.Field SpanielsThe Cocker SpanielHead—Ears—Coat—Colour—Club Prices—Faults.The Irish Water SpanielColour—Nose—Skull—Ears—Neck—Coat—Height—General Appearances—Faults—Weight—Club.The English Water SpanielChapter VI94International Gundog LeagueRules—Regulations (subject to alteration).Chapter VII102Training SpanielsSECTION BHOUNDSChapter VIII113The FoxhoundPacks of Foxhounds.HarriersLoins—Back—Ribs—Chest—Fore-limbs—Coat.The OtterhoundColour—Height—Eyes—Ears—Skull—Neck.The DeerhoundHead—Ears—Neck—Shoulders—Stern—Eyes—Body—Legs—Feet—Coat—Colour—Height—Weight—Points required.SECTION CHOUNDSChapter IX141The BloodhoundHead—Eyes—Legs—Feet—Chest—Shoulder—Neck—Ribs—Back—Loins—Hind-quarters—Limbs—Tail—Coat—Colour—Height—Club—Association of Bloodhound Breeders.Irish WolfhoundsWeight—Height—Head—Ears—Neck—Fore-limbs—Hind-quartersThe GreyhoundHead—Eyes—Ears—Neck—Fore-quarters.The WhippetCoat—Constitution—Fore-limbs—Hind-quarters— Feet—Tail—General Appearance of the Whippet.SECTION DMIXED HOUNDSChapter X179The Borzois or Russian WolfhoundEars—Eyes—Chest—Neck—Fore-limbs—Colour—Coat—Height—Faults—Club.The BeagleEnglish Beagle Club—Points—American Beagle Club—Points.Chapter XI194The DachshundCoat—Head—Nose—Eyes—Ears—Neck—Chest—Shoulders—Legs—Feet—Toes—Hind-quarters.The Basset-houndColour—Coat—Head—Fore-quarters—Chest—Club Rules of Basset Club—Points of Basset Hound (smooth)—General Appearance—Points of the Basset-hound (rough).SECTION EFOX TERRIERSChapter XII239The Fox TerrierStandard of Points recommended by the Fox Terrier Club.Rough Fox TerrierScale of Points—Disqualifying Points.SECTION FTERRIERSChapter XIII269The Skye TerrierColour—Head—Body—Legs—Height—Faults—Club—Prices.The Bedlington TerrierHistory—Height—Weight—Colour—Nose—Coat—Skull—Body—Tail—Limbs and Quarters—Club.The Scottish TerrierCoat—Height—Colour—Body—Neck—Chest—Limbs and Feet—Ears—Eyes—Head—Hair—Muzzle—Height—Clubs.The Irish TerrierCoat—Colour—Neck—Body—Limbs and Feet—Weight—Club—Prices.The Airedale TerrierStandard of the Airedale Terrier Club—Points—Rules and Regulations.The White West Highland TerrierDescription of.The Welsh TerrierHead—Neck—Arms—Forearms—Back and Loins—Tail—First and Second Thighs—Feet—Club.The Dandie=DinmontHistory—Head—Neck—Tail—Fore and Hind limbs—Colour—Society—Standard of Points of Dandie-Dinmont Terrier Club—Rules for Breeders' Challenge Cup—Rules for the Tiddeman Trophies—Rules for the Ringwood Club—Breeders' Cups, etc.SECTION GAFGHAN GREYHOUND-LURCHERChapter XIV333The Afghan GreyhoundSkull—Eyes—Ears—Neck—Colour—Weight—Height at Shoulder—Limbs.The LurcherThe Training, Use, and Abuse, of Night=DogsChapter XV351The Gamekeepers' Kennel AssociationChapter XVI363Feeding Sporting DogsConditioning DogsChapter XVII369Specific AilmentsDistemper—Rabies—Blood Poisoning—Rheumatism—Chest Founder or Kennel Lameness.Chapter XVIII384Constitutional Skin DiseasesEczema—Boils—Herpes—Nettle Rash.Chapter XIX389External Parasites and Parasitic Skin DiseasesFleas—Pediculi or Lice—Ringworm—Sarcoptic Mange—Follicular Mange.Chapter XX394Diseases of the Gullet, Stomach, Bowels, and Digestive GlandsDisease of the Gullet—Inflammation of the Stomach—Twist and Intussusception of the Bowels—Inflammation of the Bowels—Vomiting—Worms—Diarrhœa—Dysentery—Hæmorrhage—Hæmorrhoids—Dyspepsia—Jaundice—Ruptures.Chapter XXI413Poisons and their RemediesPoisoning by Arsenic—Antimony—Strychnine—Phosphorus—Rat and other Vermin Destroyers—By Lead—Mercury—Ptomaine Poisoning.Chapter XXII419Diseases of the Urinary OrgansDisease of the Kidneys—Stone in the Bladder—Inflammation of the Bladder—Stricture of the Urethra.Chapter XXIII422Diseases of the EarDropsy of the Ear-flap—Otitis—Otorrhœa or Canker (internal)—Split Margin of Ear—(External Canker)—Eczema of Ears—Deafness—Morbid Growths in Passage—Concretions—Syringing ears.Chapter XXIV428Diseases of the EyeOphthalmia—Blindness—Inverted Eyelids—Everted Eyelids—Torn Eyelids—Foreign Bodies in Eyes—Bareness around Margins.Chapter XXV433Injuries and Minor OperationsWounds—Overgrown Claws—Fractures.Chapter XXVI438Minor OperationsDocking—Setoning—Enemas—Fomentations—Blistering—Tumours and Warts.Appendix443White West Highland TerrierClub Standard of Points.Index447LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONSPAGEHead of Bloodhound Champion SultanFrontispiecePointers on Partridges5Pointer Champion Faskally Brag7Pointer Champion Coronation11Pointer Bitch Barton Beauty13Pointer Bitch Barton Blanche15A Brace of English Setters at Repose(PrideandSally)19English Setter Romney Rock21Irish Setter Dog25Irish Setter Champion Florizel27Mr Cartwright's Flat-coated Retriever Champion Colwyn Clytie43Typical Flat-coated Retriever45Flat-coated Retriever Danehurst Rocket49Flat-coated Retriever Busy Marquis51Typical Flat-coated Retriever Dog53Curly-Coated Retriever Dog57Clumber Spaniel Dog Bobs of Salop73Mr Newington's Sussex Spaniel Dog Rosehill Rock77Typical Cocker Spaniel85Irish Water Spaniel Pat O'Brien89Mr Walter Winans' Pack of Hounds and Master115Enemies at Peace—Foxhound Nameless and Tame Dog Fox117Lecturer—A Member of the Crickhowell Harriers123Deerhound Champion St Ronan's Rhyme131Deerhound Dog Champion Selwood Morven133A Quartet of Typical Bloodhounds143Greyhound Bitch Lady Golightly159Fawn Greyhound Dean Baden Powell161A Trio of Greyhounds, Duke o' Ringmer, Lady Golightly, Glory o' Ringmer163Greyhound Sussex Belle165Typical Whippet Dog Dandy Coon169Borzois Padiham Nordia175Borzois Dog177A Group of Leyswood Beagles183Pocket Beagle Cheerful of Rodnance185Dachshund Champion Snakes Prince195A Brace of Typical Dachshunds197Dachshund Dog and Bitch199Red Dachshund Victoria Regina201Mr Proctor's Basset-hound Bitch Queen of the Geisha209A Brace of Typical Smooth-coated Basset-hounds211Smooth-coated Basset-hound Bitch and Her Puppies213Smooth Basset-hound Dog Champion Louis le Beau.A veritable pillar of the Stud Book215Typical Smooth-coated Basset Bitch217A Group of Champion Smooth-coated Bassets219Typical Rough Basset Bitch221Rough-coated Basset-Hound Dog Champion Puritan223Typical Rough-coated Basset Dog225Mr Scott's Smooth Fox Terrier Millgate Joe241Champion South Cave Leger243Smooth Fox Terrier Duke of Doncaster245Smooth Fox Terrier Champion Cymro Queen249Miss Lewis's Wire-haired Fox Terrier Champion Donington Venture251Mr Scott's Smooth Fox Terrier Millgate Bandit253Smooth Fox Terrier Dog Champion Dukedom257Smooth Fox Terrier Dog Darley Dale259Wire-haired Fox Terrier Dog Remus of Gaywood261Mr Scott's Wire-haired Fox Terrier Millgate Leader263Typical Prick-eared Skye Terrier Dog271Bedlington Terrier Dog275Scottish Terrier Dog Champion Hyndman Thistle279A Trio of Scottish Terriers281Group of Scottish Terriers285Irish Terrier Blackbrook Banker289Airedale Terrier Dog Barkerend Masterpiece291Airedale Terrier Dog Crompton Marvel295Airedale Terrier Dog Barkerend Victoria299Brace of White West Highland Terriers305Welsh Terrier309Dandie-Dinmont Terrier Dog Thistle Grove Ben311Afghan Greyhound335The Celebrated Keeper's Night-Dog Thorneywood Terror, said to be the most perfectly trained Night Dog ever bred339SECTION ACHAPTER IPointersCHAPTER IISettersENGLISH—IRISH—GORDONCHAPTER IIIInternational Gundog LeagueCHAPTER IVRetrieversFLAT-COATED—CURLY-COATED—LABRADORCHAPTER VSpanielsGENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE DIFFERENT VARIETIES—CLUMBER—SUSSEX—FIELD—COCKER—IRISH WATER—ENGLISH SPRINGERSSPORTING DOGSCHAPTER IThe PointerMost authorities are in agreement that the English Pointer has been derived from a cross of the old Spanish Pointer and Southern Hound, or with the former and a Foxhound.The old Spanish Pointer was a heavy, loose-made dog, had a large head, short and smooth coat, thin, loose ears and a thin tail.In colour he was generally black, black and white, liver and white, red and white, dark brown, liver, etc. The breed, it is said, was first introduced into this country by a Portuguese merchant, living and shooting in Norfolk.According to accounts, the Spanish Pointers had a remarkable degree of scenting power, never missing their game.In Germany there are two varieties of Pointers—theRough-and the Smooth-coated. Like the old Spanish Pointer, these dogs are slow, but sure workers: they are heavily built, and frequently liver, or liver and white.The chief drawback to the Spanish Pointer was his slowness, and indifferent temper. The French Pointer was probably superior, and may have had considerable influence towards making the many good qualities possessed by the English Pointer of to-day. A medium-sized dog is the most useful, the heavy being too slow and the light weights too fast, especially for aged shooters.The Pointer may be described as fairly hardy; generally of good constitution, and when bred from working parents, puppies usually respond readily to the breaker's tuition.A second-, or third-season dog, is preferable to a first-season one, so that, when purchasing, this should be borne in mind. Another matter worthy of attention, and that is, never to purchase a Pointer without having him for a week or two's trial on your own shoot.The colour of a Pointer is more a matter for individual taste, though there is no doubt that one should choose such as can be the most readily discerned in the distance. Lemon and white, black and white, and liver and white ticked, especially the last-named, are the most general colours. Liver, and red and white are frequently seen, though the former is not so readily recognisable on ploughed land, etc.[Photo by Horner.Pointers on Partridges(Property of MrF. R. Horner).Pointer Champion Faskally Brag(Property of MrH. Sawtell)In action, these dogs ought to move with beauty and freedom, unobserved in any other breed. The movements alone ought to be sufficient to create admiration in the mind of the sportsman.Head.—Should be of good size, wide in the dome, and wider between the eyes, with a long, broad, square nose and broad, well-dilated nostrils, giving the head a somewhat square conformation.Incolour, nose ought to be black, but in lemon and white dogs, flesh-coloured. Cartilages of ears, long and thin, covered by soft hair, and carried close to cheeks.Eyes.—Of medium size.Twenty-four per cent. of points are allowed for skull, nose, eyes, ears, lips, and six for the neck, which ought to be long, arched, and free from loose skin or dewlap. Long oblique shoulders and long arms are essentials of beauty in the Pointer. Forearms long, having plenty of bone and muscle. Pasterns of medium length, feet round (like those of the cat), and the soles hard. A good deal of attention is paid to the legs and feet, by Pointer judges. Some prefer the hare-foot. The elbow must stand well off the brisket and be low placed. Dog must not be "out" at elbow. Viewed from the front, the chest ofthe Pointer, nevertheless, ought not to be broad, otherwise the beautiful elastic step is interfered with. The contour of the chest is round and deep. Back ribs must be deep, and flanks broad and thick, so as to give strength in these regions.Back and Hind-quarters.—The back should be of good length but strongly built, and the loins broad and deep. First and second thighs well covered with muscle; hocks strong and good; stifles broad.Too much importance cannot be attached to the stern of the Pointer, and judges are keen on quality in this region. First of all, it must be strong at its "set on," and gradually taper to a fine point.If the tail is as thick at the end as it is at its "set on," or coarse in other respects, it indicates inferior breeding. Should be carried on a line with the back.Faults.—Any approach to curl in tail, coarse coat, soft feet, short back ribs, wide chest, too heavy in head and facial expression, short on legs, under-or over-sized, presence of flews or big cheeks, undershot; too much of Hound character, bad temper, disobedience, bad constitution, etc.Pointer Champion Coronation(Property of MrH. Sawtell).Pointer Bitch Barton Beauty(Property of SirHumphry de Trafford, Bart.).Pointer Bitch Barton Blanche(Property of SirHumphry de Trafford, Bart.).Value of PointsSkull10Ears5Nose10Neck5——30Shoulders, chest, back and thighs,30Colour and coat,10Stern and general quality,10Legs6Feet6Elbow4Hocks2Stifles2——20——Total100CHAPTER IIThe English SetterMost authorities, or those who have made diligent inquiries into the history—if such it can be called—or origin, of the English Setter, are agreed that it has been derived from the Spaniel—Setting Spaniel—and Laverack, in his work on the Setter, says,—"I am of the opinion that all Setters have more or less originally sprung from our various strains of Spaniels, and I believe most breeders of any note agree that the Setter is nothing more than a Setting Spaniel. How the Setter attained his sufficiency of point is difficult to account for, and I leave the question to wiser heads than mine to determine. The Setter is said and acknowledged by authorities of long standing, to be of greater antiquity than the Pointer. If this be true—and I believe it is—the Setter cannot at first have been crossed with the Pointer to render him what he is."If the foregoing views be accepted, it follows that our lovely Setter is but an improved Spaniel.A Brace of English Setters at Repose(PrideandSally, MrStanhope Lovell).An English Setter(Romney Rock).The Laverack Setters—a strain preserved by the late Mr Laverack—has always played an important part in the more recent history of the Setter. The Llewellin Setter—a strain bred by Mr Llewellin—(a Laverack cross) stands out as being one of the best strains ever produced, both on the show bench and in the field.A high-class English Setter should have a rich, glossy coat, and every movement should be one of elegance, dash, and beauty.A high degree of intelligence and great power of physical endurance are asine qua non.Field trials have done more towards perfecting the working qualities of the Setter than could have been attained by any other means.The breeding of stock from dogs coming out top at these trials affords the surest means of attaining the highest degree of working capacity.The points of the English Setter are as follows:—Coat.—To be soft, silky, and free from curl. There ought to be an abundance of soft feather on fore and hind legs.Colour.—Not a great deal of importance is attached to this. The chief colours are:—Liver and white, lemon and white, black, black and white, red or yellow, orange Belton, black and white ticked, with splashes of black, or bluish tint—blue Belton, black, white and tan markings, &c. Black and white ticked are commonest.Skull.—Long and narrow, with a well-developed occipital bone. Muzzle square, and lips full at their angles.Ears and Eyes.—Ears set on low, thin and soft, carried close to the cheeks, and covered by silky hair about a couple of inches in length. Eyes of medium size, either brown or hazel.Neck.—Slightly arched and covered by somewhat loose skin.Back and Quarters.—Arched, and loins wide and strong. Hocks, strong.Tail.—Should be carried in a straight line with the body, and the feather upon it to consist of straight, silky hairs, shortening towards the point. A beautiful flag is a great adornment to the Setter, especially when at work.Fore-limbs.—Shoulders set well back. Forearms straight and strong, of medium length, and with a good fringe at the back. Pasterns short and nearly vertical. Feet well feathered below and cat-like.Weight.—Dogs from 50 to 60 lbs. Bitches, 45 to 55 lbs.Club.—The English Setter.Faults.—Curly coat, snipy head, bad carriage of stern, too light in bone, too short or too long in leg, out at elbows, too heavy in head, bad symmetry, disobedience, bad scenting power, indifferent at work, etc., etc.The Irish SetterThe origin of these dogs, as in many other breeds, is enshrouded in mystery. The theory that they have been derived from Red Spaniels, crossed with the Bloodhound, is accepted by some breeders, the traces of Hound blood being observable in their method of working (scenting their game), so much objected to, by many sportsmen.Irish Setter Dog.In Ireland these Setters have been, and still are, greatly used for snipe shooting, being hardy, fast, and very keen-nosed—their ability to bear fatigue, and cold, being unequalled by any other variety of Setter.It has been said that the finest and oldest strain of Irish Setters have a slight tinge of black on the tips of the ears and muzzle; others, again, regard the presence of black hairs as a sign of impurity of blood, agreeing that these dogs ought to be a very deep, rich red—a dark or blood red being preferred. White hairs ought not to be present anywhere, excepting on the forehead and chest, though many object to white in the situation last named.TheCoatshould be close, of strong growth, and neither coarse nor silky in texture. Feather of a golden tinge, and of moderate amount.Ears.—To be long, set low on the head, and have a medium degree of feathering.Eyes.—A deep hazel or brown, and the nose dark or mahogany flesh. A black nose should disqualify.Neck.—Of fair length, slightly arched, and body proportionately long; the chest deep, and ribs well sprung.Forelegs.—Straight, not too much feathered, and the feet small, firm, and close, with well-arched toes.Strong Loins, powerful thighs and hocks, and a horizontal carriage of the tail (not cocked) are excellences in this region.Taken as a whole, the Irish Setter is built more after the type of a racer. Moreover, has a little wider skull than the English variety.Irish Setter Champion Florizel(Property of MrsHamilton).The Black-and-tan Setter (Gordon Setter)This famous breed of Setters can be traced back for a hundred years to the castle of the Duke of Gordon, but whether this nobleman laid the foundation stone of the present breed of Black-and-tan Setter, becomes a matter of speculation.It is not the least improbable that these Setters have been derived by crossing the English Setter with a Black-and-tan Collie, as certain Gordons exhibit more than a trace of the Collie element.During the last few years the Black-and-tan Setter classes at the Kennel Club Shows in London have been very badly filled, and unless breeding this variety of dog becomes more popular, in England at least, it will soon deteriorate.A well-broken Gordon is a most useful dog in the field, though certainly his luck at field trials has not been anything like that of the Englishman.In colour he should be a glossy raven black, with rich mahogany tan markings, pencilling of the toes being allowable.On the inside of the fore-limbs, tan ought to show nearly up to the elbows, and up to the hocks, on the inner sides of the hind ones.There should be tan on the lips, cheeks, undersides of the ears; spots over eyes, on front of the chest, on the vent, and at the root of tail or flag.Eyes.—To be of medium size and deep brown.Ears.—The ears of the Gordon are longer than those of the Irish or English, are set on low and lie close to head.Head.—There ought to be good evidence of "stop," rendering the occiput well-defined.From eye to occiput, head should measure nearly 6 inches.The old type of Gordon was much too clumsy in the head.Neck.—Long, clean, and racey.Shoulders and Chest.—Shoulders of good slope and chest deep. Ribs to be well sprung.Fore-limbs and Feet.—To be of moderate length; strong in the forearms, and elbows well in. Feet arched and cat-like.Astrong back, loin, and well-bent stifles are qualifications of the Gordon.Stern.—The tail carried as nearly in the same line as the body. Many Gordons have defective carriage of the caudal appendage.The so-called "tea-pot" tail is the worst fault, and destroys a dog's chance of winning in the show ring.Gordon Setter puppies are not difficult to rear, though good specimens are difficult to produce; still more so to purchase, when grown up, and thoroughly broken.In America this variety of Setter is much thoughtof, and in that country a great deal has been done towards the improvement of the breed, where the value of points is as follows:—Head, muzzle and nose15Shoulders and chest15Back, loins, thighs and stifles15Stern and flag8Fore-limbs15Colour and markings8Symmetry and quality8Neck5Eyes, ears and lips5Texture of coat and feather6——100

SPORTING DOGS

Photo by T. Fall, Baker St.]

[Frontispiece.

Head of Bloodhound Champion Sultan.

THEIR POINTS: AND MANAGEMENT;IN HEALTH, AND DISEASE

FRANK TOWNEND BARTON

M.R.C.V.S.Veterinary Surgeon to the Gamekeepers' Kennel Association Veterinary Adviser to the "Gamekeepers' Gazette"

AUTHOR OF"NON-SPORTING DOGS," "TOY DOGS,""EVERYDAY AILMENTS AND ACCIDENTS TO THE DOG,""SOUND AND UNSOUND HORSES," "OUR FRIEND THE HORSE,""BREAKING AND TRAINING HORSES,""HOW TO CHOOSE A HORSE," "THE HORSE OWNER'S COMPANION,""THE VETERINARY MANUAL," "THE AGE OF THE HORSE,""DISEASES AND ACCIDENTS OF CATTLE,"ETC., ETC.

COPIOUSLY ILLUSTRATED FROM PHOTOGRAPHS

Surely the lines—

"Trust, oh! trust me, I will beStill true for ever, true to thee."

have never been more practically demonstrated, than in the following extract, from an account of a poaching affray, published in theGamekeepers' Gazette.

"The dead gamekeeper's dog was to be seen by the roadside restlessly waiting for its master, while he lay in a cottage fatally riddled with shot."

TOBREEDERSExhibitors, and FanciersOFSPORTING DOGSthroughout the King's Dominions

This work—Sporting Dogs: Their Points and Management in Health and Disease—has been prepared as a companion volume to those already published, viz., Non-Sporting Dogs: Their Points, etc.,andToy Dogs,in response to numerous inquiries from readers of those volumes, asking for a work upon Sporting Dogs, to complete the series, at a proportionateprice.

The Pointsof the various breeds used by Sportsmen have been freely discussed, supplemented by illustrations from photographs of the most celebrated animals known.

Kennel Management, The Management of Hounds, Diseases, Accidents and Simple Operations forms an important section of the work—features that should render the book of far greater practical utility than one dealing solely with the different varieties of dogs.

Both Author and Publisher, will be satisfied, if it meets with the hearty reception accorded to the companion publications.

In conclusion, the Author wishes to express most hearty thanks to all Breeders and Exhibitors who have so generously supplied him with Photographs: toOur Dogs Gazette; The Kennel Gazette; The Gamekeeper,etc.

CONTENTSSECTION APAGEChapter I3The PointerHead—Colour—Eyes—Back—Hind-quarters—Faults—Value of Points.Chapter II18The English SetterLaverack Setters—Coat—Colour—Skull—Ears—Eyes—Neck—Back-quarters—Tail—Fore-limbs—Weight—Faults.The Irish SetterCoat—Ears—Eyes—Neck—Forelegs—Loins.The Black=and=Tan Setter (Gordon Setter)Eyes—Ears—Head—Neck—Shoulders and Chest—Fore-limbs—Feet—Back—Loins—Stern—Value of Points.Chapter III32International Gundog LeaguePointer and Setter SocietyRules—Rules for the Trial Meetings.Chapter IV42RetrieversFlat-coated: Coat—Head—Ears—Eyes—Chest— Neck—Back—Loins—Limbs—Faults.Curly-coated.LabradorsRules of the Retriever SocietyChapter V66SpanielsGeneral Characteristics of the different Varieties—Temperament—Coat—Colour—Head—Ears—Fore-limbs—Body.The ClumberWeight—Head—Ears—Eyes—Coat—Neck—Club.The Sussex SpanielColour—Coat—Weight—Head—Eyes—Ears—Nose—Neck—Shoulders and Chest—Fore-limbs—Faults.Field SpanielsThe Cocker SpanielHead—Ears—Coat—Colour—Club Prices—Faults.The Irish Water SpanielColour—Nose—Skull—Ears—Neck—Coat—Height—General Appearances—Faults—Weight—Club.The English Water SpanielChapter VI94International Gundog LeagueRules—Regulations (subject to alteration).Chapter VII102Training SpanielsSECTION BHOUNDSChapter VIII113The FoxhoundPacks of Foxhounds.HarriersLoins—Back—Ribs—Chest—Fore-limbs—Coat.The OtterhoundColour—Height—Eyes—Ears—Skull—Neck.The DeerhoundHead—Ears—Neck—Shoulders—Stern—Eyes—Body—Legs—Feet—Coat—Colour—Height—Weight—Points required.SECTION CHOUNDSChapter IX141The BloodhoundHead—Eyes—Legs—Feet—Chest—Shoulder—Neck—Ribs—Back—Loins—Hind-quarters—Limbs—Tail—Coat—Colour—Height—Club—Association of Bloodhound Breeders.Irish WolfhoundsWeight—Height—Head—Ears—Neck—Fore-limbs—Hind-quartersThe GreyhoundHead—Eyes—Ears—Neck—Fore-quarters.The WhippetCoat—Constitution—Fore-limbs—Hind-quarters— Feet—Tail—General Appearance of the Whippet.SECTION DMIXED HOUNDSChapter X179The Borzois or Russian WolfhoundEars—Eyes—Chest—Neck—Fore-limbs—Colour—Coat—Height—Faults—Club.The BeagleEnglish Beagle Club—Points—American Beagle Club—Points.Chapter XI194The DachshundCoat—Head—Nose—Eyes—Ears—Neck—Chest—Shoulders—Legs—Feet—Toes—Hind-quarters.The Basset-houndColour—Coat—Head—Fore-quarters—Chest—Club Rules of Basset Club—Points of Basset Hound (smooth)—General Appearance—Points of the Basset-hound (rough).SECTION EFOX TERRIERSChapter XII239The Fox TerrierStandard of Points recommended by the Fox Terrier Club.Rough Fox TerrierScale of Points—Disqualifying Points.SECTION FTERRIERSChapter XIII269The Skye TerrierColour—Head—Body—Legs—Height—Faults—Club—Prices.The Bedlington TerrierHistory—Height—Weight—Colour—Nose—Coat—Skull—Body—Tail—Limbs and Quarters—Club.The Scottish TerrierCoat—Height—Colour—Body—Neck—Chest—Limbs and Feet—Ears—Eyes—Head—Hair—Muzzle—Height—Clubs.The Irish TerrierCoat—Colour—Neck—Body—Limbs and Feet—Weight—Club—Prices.The Airedale TerrierStandard of the Airedale Terrier Club—Points—Rules and Regulations.The White West Highland TerrierDescription of.The Welsh TerrierHead—Neck—Arms—Forearms—Back and Loins—Tail—First and Second Thighs—Feet—Club.The Dandie=DinmontHistory—Head—Neck—Tail—Fore and Hind limbs—Colour—Society—Standard of Points of Dandie-Dinmont Terrier Club—Rules for Breeders' Challenge Cup—Rules for the Tiddeman Trophies—Rules for the Ringwood Club—Breeders' Cups, etc.SECTION GAFGHAN GREYHOUND-LURCHERChapter XIV333The Afghan GreyhoundSkull—Eyes—Ears—Neck—Colour—Weight—Height at Shoulder—Limbs.The LurcherThe Training, Use, and Abuse, of Night=DogsChapter XV351The Gamekeepers' Kennel AssociationChapter XVI363Feeding Sporting DogsConditioning DogsChapter XVII369Specific AilmentsDistemper—Rabies—Blood Poisoning—Rheumatism—Chest Founder or Kennel Lameness.Chapter XVIII384Constitutional Skin DiseasesEczema—Boils—Herpes—Nettle Rash.Chapter XIX389External Parasites and Parasitic Skin DiseasesFleas—Pediculi or Lice—Ringworm—Sarcoptic Mange—Follicular Mange.Chapter XX394Diseases of the Gullet, Stomach, Bowels, and Digestive GlandsDisease of the Gullet—Inflammation of the Stomach—Twist and Intussusception of the Bowels—Inflammation of the Bowels—Vomiting—Worms—Diarrhœa—Dysentery—Hæmorrhage—Hæmorrhoids—Dyspepsia—Jaundice—Ruptures.Chapter XXI413Poisons and their RemediesPoisoning by Arsenic—Antimony—Strychnine—Phosphorus—Rat and other Vermin Destroyers—By Lead—Mercury—Ptomaine Poisoning.Chapter XXII419Diseases of the Urinary OrgansDisease of the Kidneys—Stone in the Bladder—Inflammation of the Bladder—Stricture of the Urethra.Chapter XXIII422Diseases of the EarDropsy of the Ear-flap—Otitis—Otorrhœa or Canker (internal)—Split Margin of Ear—(External Canker)—Eczema of Ears—Deafness—Morbid Growths in Passage—Concretions—Syringing ears.Chapter XXIV428Diseases of the EyeOphthalmia—Blindness—Inverted Eyelids—Everted Eyelids—Torn Eyelids—Foreign Bodies in Eyes—Bareness around Margins.Chapter XXV433Injuries and Minor OperationsWounds—Overgrown Claws—Fractures.Chapter XXVI438Minor OperationsDocking—Setoning—Enemas—Fomentations—Blistering—Tumours and Warts.Appendix443White West Highland TerrierClub Standard of Points.Index447

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONSPAGEHead of Bloodhound Champion SultanFrontispiecePointers on Partridges5Pointer Champion Faskally Brag7Pointer Champion Coronation11Pointer Bitch Barton Beauty13Pointer Bitch Barton Blanche15A Brace of English Setters at Repose(PrideandSally)19English Setter Romney Rock21Irish Setter Dog25Irish Setter Champion Florizel27Mr Cartwright's Flat-coated Retriever Champion Colwyn Clytie43Typical Flat-coated Retriever45Flat-coated Retriever Danehurst Rocket49Flat-coated Retriever Busy Marquis51Typical Flat-coated Retriever Dog53Curly-Coated Retriever Dog57Clumber Spaniel Dog Bobs of Salop73Mr Newington's Sussex Spaniel Dog Rosehill Rock77Typical Cocker Spaniel85Irish Water Spaniel Pat O'Brien89Mr Walter Winans' Pack of Hounds and Master115Enemies at Peace—Foxhound Nameless and Tame Dog Fox117Lecturer—A Member of the Crickhowell Harriers123Deerhound Champion St Ronan's Rhyme131Deerhound Dog Champion Selwood Morven133A Quartet of Typical Bloodhounds143Greyhound Bitch Lady Golightly159Fawn Greyhound Dean Baden Powell161A Trio of Greyhounds, Duke o' Ringmer, Lady Golightly, Glory o' Ringmer163Greyhound Sussex Belle165Typical Whippet Dog Dandy Coon169Borzois Padiham Nordia175Borzois Dog177A Group of Leyswood Beagles183Pocket Beagle Cheerful of Rodnance185Dachshund Champion Snakes Prince195A Brace of Typical Dachshunds197Dachshund Dog and Bitch199Red Dachshund Victoria Regina201Mr Proctor's Basset-hound Bitch Queen of the Geisha209A Brace of Typical Smooth-coated Basset-hounds211Smooth-coated Basset-hound Bitch and Her Puppies213Smooth Basset-hound Dog Champion Louis le Beau.A veritable pillar of the Stud Book215Typical Smooth-coated Basset Bitch217A Group of Champion Smooth-coated Bassets219Typical Rough Basset Bitch221Rough-coated Basset-Hound Dog Champion Puritan223Typical Rough-coated Basset Dog225Mr Scott's Smooth Fox Terrier Millgate Joe241Champion South Cave Leger243Smooth Fox Terrier Duke of Doncaster245Smooth Fox Terrier Champion Cymro Queen249Miss Lewis's Wire-haired Fox Terrier Champion Donington Venture251Mr Scott's Smooth Fox Terrier Millgate Bandit253Smooth Fox Terrier Dog Champion Dukedom257Smooth Fox Terrier Dog Darley Dale259Wire-haired Fox Terrier Dog Remus of Gaywood261Mr Scott's Wire-haired Fox Terrier Millgate Leader263Typical Prick-eared Skye Terrier Dog271Bedlington Terrier Dog275Scottish Terrier Dog Champion Hyndman Thistle279A Trio of Scottish Terriers281Group of Scottish Terriers285Irish Terrier Blackbrook Banker289Airedale Terrier Dog Barkerend Masterpiece291Airedale Terrier Dog Crompton Marvel295Airedale Terrier Dog Barkerend Victoria299Brace of White West Highland Terriers305Welsh Terrier309Dandie-Dinmont Terrier Dog Thistle Grove Ben311Afghan Greyhound335The Celebrated Keeper's Night-Dog Thorneywood Terror, said to be the most perfectly trained Night Dog ever bred339

SECTION ACHAPTER IPointersCHAPTER IISettersENGLISH—IRISH—GORDONCHAPTER IIIInternational Gundog LeagueCHAPTER IVRetrieversFLAT-COATED—CURLY-COATED—LABRADORCHAPTER VSpanielsGENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE DIFFERENT VARIETIES—CLUMBER—SUSSEX—FIELD—COCKER—IRISH WATER—ENGLISH SPRINGERSSPORTING DOGSCHAPTER IThe PointerMost authorities are in agreement that the English Pointer has been derived from a cross of the old Spanish Pointer and Southern Hound, or with the former and a Foxhound.The old Spanish Pointer was a heavy, loose-made dog, had a large head, short and smooth coat, thin, loose ears and a thin tail.In colour he was generally black, black and white, liver and white, red and white, dark brown, liver, etc. The breed, it is said, was first introduced into this country by a Portuguese merchant, living and shooting in Norfolk.According to accounts, the Spanish Pointers had a remarkable degree of scenting power, never missing their game.In Germany there are two varieties of Pointers—theRough-and the Smooth-coated. Like the old Spanish Pointer, these dogs are slow, but sure workers: they are heavily built, and frequently liver, or liver and white.The chief drawback to the Spanish Pointer was his slowness, and indifferent temper. The French Pointer was probably superior, and may have had considerable influence towards making the many good qualities possessed by the English Pointer of to-day. A medium-sized dog is the most useful, the heavy being too slow and the light weights too fast, especially for aged shooters.The Pointer may be described as fairly hardy; generally of good constitution, and when bred from working parents, puppies usually respond readily to the breaker's tuition.A second-, or third-season dog, is preferable to a first-season one, so that, when purchasing, this should be borne in mind. Another matter worthy of attention, and that is, never to purchase a Pointer without having him for a week or two's trial on your own shoot.The colour of a Pointer is more a matter for individual taste, though there is no doubt that one should choose such as can be the most readily discerned in the distance. Lemon and white, black and white, and liver and white ticked, especially the last-named, are the most general colours. Liver, and red and white are frequently seen, though the former is not so readily recognisable on ploughed land, etc.[Photo by Horner.Pointers on Partridges(Property of MrF. R. Horner).Pointer Champion Faskally Brag(Property of MrH. Sawtell)In action, these dogs ought to move with beauty and freedom, unobserved in any other breed. The movements alone ought to be sufficient to create admiration in the mind of the sportsman.Head.—Should be of good size, wide in the dome, and wider between the eyes, with a long, broad, square nose and broad, well-dilated nostrils, giving the head a somewhat square conformation.Incolour, nose ought to be black, but in lemon and white dogs, flesh-coloured. Cartilages of ears, long and thin, covered by soft hair, and carried close to cheeks.Eyes.—Of medium size.Twenty-four per cent. of points are allowed for skull, nose, eyes, ears, lips, and six for the neck, which ought to be long, arched, and free from loose skin or dewlap. Long oblique shoulders and long arms are essentials of beauty in the Pointer. Forearms long, having plenty of bone and muscle. Pasterns of medium length, feet round (like those of the cat), and the soles hard. A good deal of attention is paid to the legs and feet, by Pointer judges. Some prefer the hare-foot. The elbow must stand well off the brisket and be low placed. Dog must not be "out" at elbow. Viewed from the front, the chest ofthe Pointer, nevertheless, ought not to be broad, otherwise the beautiful elastic step is interfered with. The contour of the chest is round and deep. Back ribs must be deep, and flanks broad and thick, so as to give strength in these regions.Back and Hind-quarters.—The back should be of good length but strongly built, and the loins broad and deep. First and second thighs well covered with muscle; hocks strong and good; stifles broad.Too much importance cannot be attached to the stern of the Pointer, and judges are keen on quality in this region. First of all, it must be strong at its "set on," and gradually taper to a fine point.If the tail is as thick at the end as it is at its "set on," or coarse in other respects, it indicates inferior breeding. Should be carried on a line with the back.Faults.—Any approach to curl in tail, coarse coat, soft feet, short back ribs, wide chest, too heavy in head and facial expression, short on legs, under-or over-sized, presence of flews or big cheeks, undershot; too much of Hound character, bad temper, disobedience, bad constitution, etc.Pointer Champion Coronation(Property of MrH. Sawtell).Pointer Bitch Barton Beauty(Property of SirHumphry de Trafford, Bart.).Pointer Bitch Barton Blanche(Property of SirHumphry de Trafford, Bart.).Value of PointsSkull10Ears5Nose10Neck5——30Shoulders, chest, back and thighs,30Colour and coat,10Stern and general quality,10Legs6Feet6Elbow4Hocks2Stifles2——20——Total100

SECTION A

CHAPTER I

Pointers

CHAPTER II

Setters

ENGLISH—IRISH—GORDON

CHAPTER III

International Gundog League

CHAPTER IV

Retrievers

FLAT-COATED—CURLY-COATED—LABRADOR

CHAPTER V

Spaniels

GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE DIFFERENT VARIETIES—CLUMBER—SUSSEX—FIELD—COCKER—IRISH WATER—ENGLISH SPRINGERS

The Pointer

Most authorities are in agreement that the English Pointer has been derived from a cross of the old Spanish Pointer and Southern Hound, or with the former and a Foxhound.

The old Spanish Pointer was a heavy, loose-made dog, had a large head, short and smooth coat, thin, loose ears and a thin tail.

In colour he was generally black, black and white, liver and white, red and white, dark brown, liver, etc. The breed, it is said, was first introduced into this country by a Portuguese merchant, living and shooting in Norfolk.

According to accounts, the Spanish Pointers had a remarkable degree of scenting power, never missing their game.

In Germany there are two varieties of Pointers—theRough-and the Smooth-coated. Like the old Spanish Pointer, these dogs are slow, but sure workers: they are heavily built, and frequently liver, or liver and white.

The chief drawback to the Spanish Pointer was his slowness, and indifferent temper. The French Pointer was probably superior, and may have had considerable influence towards making the many good qualities possessed by the English Pointer of to-day. A medium-sized dog is the most useful, the heavy being too slow and the light weights too fast, especially for aged shooters.

The Pointer may be described as fairly hardy; generally of good constitution, and when bred from working parents, puppies usually respond readily to the breaker's tuition.

A second-, or third-season dog, is preferable to a first-season one, so that, when purchasing, this should be borne in mind. Another matter worthy of attention, and that is, never to purchase a Pointer without having him for a week or two's trial on your own shoot.

The colour of a Pointer is more a matter for individual taste, though there is no doubt that one should choose such as can be the most readily discerned in the distance. Lemon and white, black and white, and liver and white ticked, especially the last-named, are the most general colours. Liver, and red and white are frequently seen, though the former is not so readily recognisable on ploughed land, etc.

[Photo by Horner.

Pointers on Partridges(Property of MrF. R. Horner).

Pointer Champion Faskally Brag(Property of MrH. Sawtell)

In action, these dogs ought to move with beauty and freedom, unobserved in any other breed. The movements alone ought to be sufficient to create admiration in the mind of the sportsman.

Head.—Should be of good size, wide in the dome, and wider between the eyes, with a long, broad, square nose and broad, well-dilated nostrils, giving the head a somewhat square conformation.

Incolour, nose ought to be black, but in lemon and white dogs, flesh-coloured. Cartilages of ears, long and thin, covered by soft hair, and carried close to cheeks.

Eyes.—Of medium size.

Twenty-four per cent. of points are allowed for skull, nose, eyes, ears, lips, and six for the neck, which ought to be long, arched, and free from loose skin or dewlap. Long oblique shoulders and long arms are essentials of beauty in the Pointer. Forearms long, having plenty of bone and muscle. Pasterns of medium length, feet round (like those of the cat), and the soles hard. A good deal of attention is paid to the legs and feet, by Pointer judges. Some prefer the hare-foot. The elbow must stand well off the brisket and be low placed. Dog must not be "out" at elbow. Viewed from the front, the chest ofthe Pointer, nevertheless, ought not to be broad, otherwise the beautiful elastic step is interfered with. The contour of the chest is round and deep. Back ribs must be deep, and flanks broad and thick, so as to give strength in these regions.

Back and Hind-quarters.—The back should be of good length but strongly built, and the loins broad and deep. First and second thighs well covered with muscle; hocks strong and good; stifles broad.

Too much importance cannot be attached to the stern of the Pointer, and judges are keen on quality in this region. First of all, it must be strong at its "set on," and gradually taper to a fine point.

If the tail is as thick at the end as it is at its "set on," or coarse in other respects, it indicates inferior breeding. Should be carried on a line with the back.

Faults.—Any approach to curl in tail, coarse coat, soft feet, short back ribs, wide chest, too heavy in head and facial expression, short on legs, under-or over-sized, presence of flews or big cheeks, undershot; too much of Hound character, bad temper, disobedience, bad constitution, etc.

Pointer Champion Coronation(Property of MrH. Sawtell).

Pointer Bitch Barton Beauty(Property of SirHumphry de Trafford, Bart.).

Pointer Bitch Barton Blanche(Property of SirHumphry de Trafford, Bart.).

Value of Points

CHAPTER IIThe English SetterMost authorities, or those who have made diligent inquiries into the history—if such it can be called—or origin, of the English Setter, are agreed that it has been derived from the Spaniel—Setting Spaniel—and Laverack, in his work on the Setter, says,—"I am of the opinion that all Setters have more or less originally sprung from our various strains of Spaniels, and I believe most breeders of any note agree that the Setter is nothing more than a Setting Spaniel. How the Setter attained his sufficiency of point is difficult to account for, and I leave the question to wiser heads than mine to determine. The Setter is said and acknowledged by authorities of long standing, to be of greater antiquity than the Pointer. If this be true—and I believe it is—the Setter cannot at first have been crossed with the Pointer to render him what he is."If the foregoing views be accepted, it follows that our lovely Setter is but an improved Spaniel.A Brace of English Setters at Repose(PrideandSally, MrStanhope Lovell).An English Setter(Romney Rock).The Laverack Setters—a strain preserved by the late Mr Laverack—has always played an important part in the more recent history of the Setter. The Llewellin Setter—a strain bred by Mr Llewellin—(a Laverack cross) stands out as being one of the best strains ever produced, both on the show bench and in the field.A high-class English Setter should have a rich, glossy coat, and every movement should be one of elegance, dash, and beauty.A high degree of intelligence and great power of physical endurance are asine qua non.Field trials have done more towards perfecting the working qualities of the Setter than could have been attained by any other means.The breeding of stock from dogs coming out top at these trials affords the surest means of attaining the highest degree of working capacity.The points of the English Setter are as follows:—Coat.—To be soft, silky, and free from curl. There ought to be an abundance of soft feather on fore and hind legs.Colour.—Not a great deal of importance is attached to this. The chief colours are:—Liver and white, lemon and white, black, black and white, red or yellow, orange Belton, black and white ticked, with splashes of black, or bluish tint—blue Belton, black, white and tan markings, &c. Black and white ticked are commonest.Skull.—Long and narrow, with a well-developed occipital bone. Muzzle square, and lips full at their angles.Ears and Eyes.—Ears set on low, thin and soft, carried close to the cheeks, and covered by silky hair about a couple of inches in length. Eyes of medium size, either brown or hazel.Neck.—Slightly arched and covered by somewhat loose skin.Back and Quarters.—Arched, and loins wide and strong. Hocks, strong.Tail.—Should be carried in a straight line with the body, and the feather upon it to consist of straight, silky hairs, shortening towards the point. A beautiful flag is a great adornment to the Setter, especially when at work.Fore-limbs.—Shoulders set well back. Forearms straight and strong, of medium length, and with a good fringe at the back. Pasterns short and nearly vertical. Feet well feathered below and cat-like.Weight.—Dogs from 50 to 60 lbs. Bitches, 45 to 55 lbs.Club.—The English Setter.Faults.—Curly coat, snipy head, bad carriage of stern, too light in bone, too short or too long in leg, out at elbows, too heavy in head, bad symmetry, disobedience, bad scenting power, indifferent at work, etc., etc.The Irish SetterThe origin of these dogs, as in many other breeds, is enshrouded in mystery. The theory that they have been derived from Red Spaniels, crossed with the Bloodhound, is accepted by some breeders, the traces of Hound blood being observable in their method of working (scenting their game), so much objected to, by many sportsmen.Irish Setter Dog.In Ireland these Setters have been, and still are, greatly used for snipe shooting, being hardy, fast, and very keen-nosed—their ability to bear fatigue, and cold, being unequalled by any other variety of Setter.It has been said that the finest and oldest strain of Irish Setters have a slight tinge of black on the tips of the ears and muzzle; others, again, regard the presence of black hairs as a sign of impurity of blood, agreeing that these dogs ought to be a very deep, rich red—a dark or blood red being preferred. White hairs ought not to be present anywhere, excepting on the forehead and chest, though many object to white in the situation last named.TheCoatshould be close, of strong growth, and neither coarse nor silky in texture. Feather of a golden tinge, and of moderate amount.Ears.—To be long, set low on the head, and have a medium degree of feathering.Eyes.—A deep hazel or brown, and the nose dark or mahogany flesh. A black nose should disqualify.Neck.—Of fair length, slightly arched, and body proportionately long; the chest deep, and ribs well sprung.Forelegs.—Straight, not too much feathered, and the feet small, firm, and close, with well-arched toes.Strong Loins, powerful thighs and hocks, and a horizontal carriage of the tail (not cocked) are excellences in this region.Taken as a whole, the Irish Setter is built more after the type of a racer. Moreover, has a little wider skull than the English variety.Irish Setter Champion Florizel(Property of MrsHamilton).The Black-and-tan Setter (Gordon Setter)This famous breed of Setters can be traced back for a hundred years to the castle of the Duke of Gordon, but whether this nobleman laid the foundation stone of the present breed of Black-and-tan Setter, becomes a matter of speculation.It is not the least improbable that these Setters have been derived by crossing the English Setter with a Black-and-tan Collie, as certain Gordons exhibit more than a trace of the Collie element.During the last few years the Black-and-tan Setter classes at the Kennel Club Shows in London have been very badly filled, and unless breeding this variety of dog becomes more popular, in England at least, it will soon deteriorate.A well-broken Gordon is a most useful dog in the field, though certainly his luck at field trials has not been anything like that of the Englishman.In colour he should be a glossy raven black, with rich mahogany tan markings, pencilling of the toes being allowable.On the inside of the fore-limbs, tan ought to show nearly up to the elbows, and up to the hocks, on the inner sides of the hind ones.There should be tan on the lips, cheeks, undersides of the ears; spots over eyes, on front of the chest, on the vent, and at the root of tail or flag.Eyes.—To be of medium size and deep brown.Ears.—The ears of the Gordon are longer than those of the Irish or English, are set on low and lie close to head.Head.—There ought to be good evidence of "stop," rendering the occiput well-defined.From eye to occiput, head should measure nearly 6 inches.The old type of Gordon was much too clumsy in the head.Neck.—Long, clean, and racey.Shoulders and Chest.—Shoulders of good slope and chest deep. Ribs to be well sprung.Fore-limbs and Feet.—To be of moderate length; strong in the forearms, and elbows well in. Feet arched and cat-like.Astrong back, loin, and well-bent stifles are qualifications of the Gordon.Stern.—The tail carried as nearly in the same line as the body. Many Gordons have defective carriage of the caudal appendage.The so-called "tea-pot" tail is the worst fault, and destroys a dog's chance of winning in the show ring.Gordon Setter puppies are not difficult to rear, though good specimens are difficult to produce; still more so to purchase, when grown up, and thoroughly broken.In America this variety of Setter is much thoughtof, and in that country a great deal has been done towards the improvement of the breed, where the value of points is as follows:—Head, muzzle and nose15Shoulders and chest15Back, loins, thighs and stifles15Stern and flag8Fore-limbs15Colour and markings8Symmetry and quality8Neck5Eyes, ears and lips5Texture of coat and feather6——100

The English Setter

Most authorities, or those who have made diligent inquiries into the history—if such it can be called—or origin, of the English Setter, are agreed that it has been derived from the Spaniel—Setting Spaniel—and Laverack, in his work on the Setter, says,—

"I am of the opinion that all Setters have more or less originally sprung from our various strains of Spaniels, and I believe most breeders of any note agree that the Setter is nothing more than a Setting Spaniel. How the Setter attained his sufficiency of point is difficult to account for, and I leave the question to wiser heads than mine to determine. The Setter is said and acknowledged by authorities of long standing, to be of greater antiquity than the Pointer. If this be true—and I believe it is—the Setter cannot at first have been crossed with the Pointer to render him what he is."

If the foregoing views be accepted, it follows that our lovely Setter is but an improved Spaniel.

A Brace of English Setters at Repose(PrideandSally, MrStanhope Lovell).

An English Setter(Romney Rock).

The Laverack Setters—a strain preserved by the late Mr Laverack—has always played an important part in the more recent history of the Setter. The Llewellin Setter—a strain bred by Mr Llewellin—(a Laverack cross) stands out as being one of the best strains ever produced, both on the show bench and in the field.

A high-class English Setter should have a rich, glossy coat, and every movement should be one of elegance, dash, and beauty.

A high degree of intelligence and great power of physical endurance are asine qua non.

Field trials have done more towards perfecting the working qualities of the Setter than could have been attained by any other means.

The breeding of stock from dogs coming out top at these trials affords the surest means of attaining the highest degree of working capacity.

The points of the English Setter are as follows:—

Coat.—To be soft, silky, and free from curl. There ought to be an abundance of soft feather on fore and hind legs.

Colour.—Not a great deal of importance is attached to this. The chief colours are:—Liver and white, lemon and white, black, black and white, red or yellow, orange Belton, black and white ticked, with splashes of black, or bluish tint—blue Belton, black, white and tan markings, &c. Black and white ticked are commonest.

Skull.—Long and narrow, with a well-developed occipital bone. Muzzle square, and lips full at their angles.

Ears and Eyes.—Ears set on low, thin and soft, carried close to the cheeks, and covered by silky hair about a couple of inches in length. Eyes of medium size, either brown or hazel.

Neck.—Slightly arched and covered by somewhat loose skin.

Back and Quarters.—Arched, and loins wide and strong. Hocks, strong.

Tail.—Should be carried in a straight line with the body, and the feather upon it to consist of straight, silky hairs, shortening towards the point. A beautiful flag is a great adornment to the Setter, especially when at work.

Fore-limbs.—Shoulders set well back. Forearms straight and strong, of medium length, and with a good fringe at the back. Pasterns short and nearly vertical. Feet well feathered below and cat-like.

Weight.—Dogs from 50 to 60 lbs. Bitches, 45 to 55 lbs.Club.—The English Setter.

Faults.—Curly coat, snipy head, bad carriage of stern, too light in bone, too short or too long in leg, out at elbows, too heavy in head, bad symmetry, disobedience, bad scenting power, indifferent at work, etc., etc.

The Irish Setter

The origin of these dogs, as in many other breeds, is enshrouded in mystery. The theory that they have been derived from Red Spaniels, crossed with the Bloodhound, is accepted by some breeders, the traces of Hound blood being observable in their method of working (scenting their game), so much objected to, by many sportsmen.

Irish Setter Dog.

In Ireland these Setters have been, and still are, greatly used for snipe shooting, being hardy, fast, and very keen-nosed—their ability to bear fatigue, and cold, being unequalled by any other variety of Setter.

It has been said that the finest and oldest strain of Irish Setters have a slight tinge of black on the tips of the ears and muzzle; others, again, regard the presence of black hairs as a sign of impurity of blood, agreeing that these dogs ought to be a very deep, rich red—a dark or blood red being preferred. White hairs ought not to be present anywhere, excepting on the forehead and chest, though many object to white in the situation last named.

TheCoatshould be close, of strong growth, and neither coarse nor silky in texture. Feather of a golden tinge, and of moderate amount.

Ears.—To be long, set low on the head, and have a medium degree of feathering.

Eyes.—A deep hazel or brown, and the nose dark or mahogany flesh. A black nose should disqualify.

Neck.—Of fair length, slightly arched, and body proportionately long; the chest deep, and ribs well sprung.

Forelegs.—Straight, not too much feathered, and the feet small, firm, and close, with well-arched toes.

Strong Loins, powerful thighs and hocks, and a horizontal carriage of the tail (not cocked) are excellences in this region.

Taken as a whole, the Irish Setter is built more after the type of a racer. Moreover, has a little wider skull than the English variety.

Irish Setter Champion Florizel(Property of MrsHamilton).

The Black-and-tan Setter (Gordon Setter)

This famous breed of Setters can be traced back for a hundred years to the castle of the Duke of Gordon, but whether this nobleman laid the foundation stone of the present breed of Black-and-tan Setter, becomes a matter of speculation.

It is not the least improbable that these Setters have been derived by crossing the English Setter with a Black-and-tan Collie, as certain Gordons exhibit more than a trace of the Collie element.

During the last few years the Black-and-tan Setter classes at the Kennel Club Shows in London have been very badly filled, and unless breeding this variety of dog becomes more popular, in England at least, it will soon deteriorate.

A well-broken Gordon is a most useful dog in the field, though certainly his luck at field trials has not been anything like that of the Englishman.

In colour he should be a glossy raven black, with rich mahogany tan markings, pencilling of the toes being allowable.

On the inside of the fore-limbs, tan ought to show nearly up to the elbows, and up to the hocks, on the inner sides of the hind ones.

There should be tan on the lips, cheeks, undersides of the ears; spots over eyes, on front of the chest, on the vent, and at the root of tail or flag.

Eyes.—To be of medium size and deep brown.

Ears.—The ears of the Gordon are longer than those of the Irish or English, are set on low and lie close to head.

Head.—There ought to be good evidence of "stop," rendering the occiput well-defined.

From eye to occiput, head should measure nearly 6 inches.

The old type of Gordon was much too clumsy in the head.

Neck.—Long, clean, and racey.

Shoulders and Chest.—Shoulders of good slope and chest deep. Ribs to be well sprung.

Fore-limbs and Feet.—To be of moderate length; strong in the forearms, and elbows well in. Feet arched and cat-like.

Astrong back, loin, and well-bent stifles are qualifications of the Gordon.

Stern.—The tail carried as nearly in the same line as the body. Many Gordons have defective carriage of the caudal appendage.

The so-called "tea-pot" tail is the worst fault, and destroys a dog's chance of winning in the show ring.

Gordon Setter puppies are not difficult to rear, though good specimens are difficult to produce; still more so to purchase, when grown up, and thoroughly broken.

In America this variety of Setter is much thoughtof, and in that country a great deal has been done towards the improvement of the breed, where the value of points is as follows:—

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