512 THE AMERICAN BOOK OF THE DOG. 



A few repetitions of this will teach, him to stop at the word. 

 A Collie instinctively chases sheep, and although not hurt- 

 ing them, will run a flock to death. He must be taught to 

 drive, not chase. Teach him to go slow by the use of the 

 cord; be patient and painstaking in this work, and you 

 will surely be rewarded. 



It is necessary to use gestures when giving commands, 

 and in a short time the dog will obey the motion of the 

 hand. This is advantageous in case of a strong wind, or of 

 the noise made by a herd, or of the dog being too far away 

 to hear the word of command. It should be considered the 

 work of several weeks or months to properly train a puppy; 

 but remember that he is likely to live many years, and 

 hence it will pay you to lay the foundation of your teach- 

 ings on solid principles to keep him close in hand till your 

 precepts are deeply grounded, and not to discharge him 

 until you are sure that his education is complete, and of a 

 lasting character. 



The rearing of the Collie does not require any different 

 treatment from that necessary in the case of other canines, 

 except in the care of the coat. In the summer season, he 

 should be washed at least once a week. When shedding 

 his coat, the dead loose hair should be kept well combed 

 out, otherwise it may become " fleece-grown. " Keep the 

 skin clean, and the new coat will grow vigorously. The dog 

 should have a cool, dark place to lie in, away from the flies, 

 during the day. An old piece of carpet or bagging to lie 

 on is sufficient for a bed. Straw, shavings, or any kind of 

 litter, is a harbor for fleas, and hangs to the coat. 



In winter, the dog requires less care. Cold does not seem 

 to affect him in the least, and he delights to roll and bur- 

 row in the deepest snow-banks, thus cleansing and adding 

 luster to his coat. A Collie that has been kept as above 

 directed, and that has been habitually well fed on whole- 

 some food, may be considered at any time, after receiving a 

 good combing and brushing, as ready for the show bench. 



The Collie is constantly growing in favor, not only with 

 stockmen and farmers, but with lovers of the dog every- 



