The Truffle Dog. 217 



CHAPTER VI. THE TRUFFLE DOG. 

 BY CORSINCON. 



CONSIDERING the utility of this little dog, and that he is so inbred and 

 distinct from other varieties, it is a wonder we never see specimens in the 

 variety classes at our shows, for although truffle hunters do not belong to 

 the exhibiting class, those who do take an interest in shows might have 

 been expected to show the public what this clever and really useful dog is 

 like in the flesh. 



They appear to be a dog with a considerable amount of poodle blood in 

 them, with a dash of terrier of some kind. Their work is to find where 

 the truffles lie buried, which demands a keen nose, much perseverance, and 

 considerable intelligence. They are trained to this work, being carefully 

 broken from game, and by their cleverness form the main support of 

 many families. 



They average about 141b. or 151b. in weight, and are more agile looking 

 than the pure poodle. 



The colour is generally white, black and white, or a grey. 



As they do not come under the category of exhibition dogs no scale of 

 points has been drawn up of the breed, their owners being only anxious 

 to develop in them those qualities by which they assist them in their 

 labour without paying regard to external appearance. 



