THE DOG. 



DOGS are very faithful, affectionate animals, and in con- 

 sequence of their wonderful sagacity, they are classed by 

 mankind among the superior quadrupeds, as the Horse and 

 the Elephant ; indeed, their attachment and fidelity surpass 

 that of all other brutes. Their confidence even seems to 

 approach friendship, and they excite in return feelings of 

 strong affection. They are thus a source of constant plea- 

 sure, and possessing great strength and speed, and strong 

 powers of scent, they become useful allies in the subjuga- 

 tion of other animals. 



Dogs are of different sizes, from the Irish Hound (now 

 very scarce), very nearly as large as a Donkey, to the little 

 lap-dog, not larger that a kitten. They are also of various 

 colors, and their hides of all kinds, the hair of some very 

 close and smooth, as the Greyhound ; that of others rough 

 and shaggy, as the Scotch Terrier ; others, again, smooth 

 and flowing like silk, as the Spaniel. Dogs are generally 

 very good-natured, but some are fierce, as their temper 

 depends a great deal on the manner in which they are 

 treated. They are easily taught to be obedient, and be- 

 come very clever. The Shepherd's Dog, ever faithful to 

 his charge, reigns at the head of the flock, where he is bet- 

 ter heard, and more attended to, than even the Shepherd 

 himself. In the large tracts of land in England and Scot- 



