THE TRAINING OF DOGS. 241 



there is only one way of accomplishing these things, as many 

 previous writers seem to have thought, with the result that many 

 who have attempted to follow these rigid rules have disgusted 

 themselves and spoiled their dogs. 



It is to be remembered that all lessons require frequent repe- 

 tition. " Little and often " applies to training as a cardinal 

 principle. 



The Bloodhound Champion Cromwell. 



No one should undertake the training of a dog to work on 

 game who is not possessed of patience and good temper. Lack- 

 ing these, the puppy is apt to cause the trainer great worrj^ and 

 to get little good from him, if he be not actually spoiled. It is, in 

 fact, better to go afield expecting that the puppy will do nothing 

 as desired at first ; then one is prepared for the worst, and may 

 soon lay his plans to accomplish what he aims at, which must 

 always be done in relation both to the dog and the circumstances. 



But with dogs example is strong for good or evil. A 

 steady, old trained dog is invaluable, while a disobedient, head- 

 strong one will most assuredly ruin the puppy. But it is clearly 

 foolish to expect a pappy under a certain age to work on game 

 with an older dog — indeed, to work on game at all — though rang- 

 ing, obeying the whistle, dropping, etc., should all be taught be- 



