THE POODLE 537 



ornamental devices are clipped in the hair on the back. The 

 general effect is quaint and peculiar, and the dogs, with their 

 vivacious cast of countenance, have an irresistibly comical appear- 

 ance, suggestive of that life and fun characteristic of them. 



Although there are many men who devote themselves to the 

 tonsorial duties in connection with Poodles, there are some ladies 

 (indeed, some of the most successful breeders and exhibitors of 

 the present day) who perform all this work for their pets with 

 their own fair hands, and the honours obtained by their dogs are 

 sufficient proof of the ability displayed by them in this way. This 



FIG. 109. MRS. L. W. CROUCH'S FLUFFY POODLE L' ENFANT PRODIGUE. 



is mentioned to show that there are no insurmountable obstacles 

 to be overcome by amateurs who have the time and inclination 

 to devote to the work, and that success is fairly within the reach of 

 those possessing that infinite capacity for taking pains. 



Poodles, as a rule, are good-tempered and warmly attached to 

 their owners ; they are not fanciful about their food, and willing 

 to make themselves at home under ordinary circumstances. It is 

 advisable, where they live in the house, to keep and treat them like 

 members of the family. When kept in kennels, it should be in 

 such structures that neither chain nor collar is required, and they 

 must be properly protected from the weather. Whatever their 

 colour, they should not be exposed to the sun, which is sure to have 



