The Chinese Edible Dog. 447 



CHAPTER XVII. THE CHINESE EDIBLE DOG. 



BY COESINCON. 



Doas so described in catalogues and frequently shown are mostly of a 

 rufous colour, and in appearance resemble Pomeranians, but are much 

 coarser made. 



I know nothing further of them than having seen them at shows, and 

 include them in this list solely because few London exhibitions are with- 

 out specimens in the class for foreign dogs. 



CHAPTER XVIII. EXHIBITING TOY DOGS. 



THE condition in which dogs are shown has much to do with their 

 success or failure to secure the coveted premier position in the ring, and 

 this is especially the case with toy dogs. 



These varieties are often valued on account of quite arbitrary points 

 of excellence, such as, it may be, length and straightness of coat, richness 

 of colour, or certain markings, and although these exist they will not be 

 seen to perfection unless the dog is shown in perfect health, and properly 

 prepared for exhibition. The show is a gala day for them, and every 

 dog should, when paraded in the ring, wear its best bib and tucker. 



In long-haired varieties, such as Yorkshire and Maltese terriers, 

 Pomeranians, &c., preparation must be commenced some time before the 

 show, and sedulously carried on day by day. 



Constant combing and brushing tends to increase the growth of coat, 

 as well as to make it lie in the desired orderly manner. 



They should receive a final polish immediately before being taken into 

 the ring. 



Taste should be observed in the furnishing of the exhibition box in which 

 they are exposed to public view and admiration. 



The smooth-haired sorts, such as pugs, Italian greyhounds, and toy 

 terriers, must also have their share of grooming for pugs an ordinary 

 flesh glove does well to dress them with, but for the very fine skinned 



