CHAPTER VII. 



BREEDING FOR GOOD DISPOSITION. 



This, to my mind, is the most important fea- 

 ture in the breeding of the dog that demands 

 th"e most careful attention. If the disposition of 

 the dog is not all that can be desired, of what 

 avail is superb constitution, an ideal conforma- 

 tion and beautiful color and markings? Better 

 by far obtain the most pronounced mongrel that 

 roams the street that shows a loving, generous 

 nature if he cost his weight in gold, than take 

 as a gift the most royally bred Boston that could 

 not be depended upon at all times and under all 

 circumstances to manifest a perfect disposition. 



A short time ago I went to visit a noted pack 

 of English fox hounds. One beautiful dog 

 especially, took my eye, a strong, vigorous, noble- 

 looking fellow, and on my asking the kennel 

 man, a quaint old Scotchman, if he would let 

 the dog out for me to see, he replied: "Why, 

 certainly, Mr. Axtell, that dog is Dashwood, he 

 is a perfect gentleman," and this is what all 

 Boston terriers should be. Of course, I am 

 speaking of the well bred, properly trained, blue 



