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 learn quickly and correctly, and such are usually will- 

 ing retrievers during their lives. The greater number learn 

 well by careful training; while a small percentage, either 

 from stupidity, dislike or functional imperfections, such as 

 poor nose, or all combined, never attain more than 

 mediocrity. 



Very obstinate 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 of resolute obstinacy and self-will being very excep- 

 tional. However, owing to physical advantages of coat, 

 and greater dash and powers of endurance, the setter, when 

 trained, is the superior retriever this comparison is in re- 

 spect to them as a class, for there are individual pointers 

 which are most excellent retrievers and individual setters 

 which are worthless. Obstinate setters, ones of the most 

 determined obstinacy and self-will, are not uncommon, and 

 during their preliminary training, when they fully compre- 

 hend what is required of them and how to perform it, they 

 will 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 



