XVI 

 THE MIDDLE-SIZED DOGS 



IT is impossible to draw exact lines of divis- 

 ion in a race which ranges from four inches 

 to thirty-four in height, with representatives 

 at every inch between. The large ones shade 

 into the middle-sized ones so gradually that 

 the collie, for example, might with equal pro- 

 priety end the list of the one or begin that of 

 the other. I place him among the middle- 

 sized because these intermediates between the 

 giants and the toys are the most desirable for 

 home dogs, in either city or country, and his 

 qualities entitle him to take the lead. 



The collie is a real dog, such as we love and 

 remember from childhood, with characteris- 

 tics that make him invaluable in the family 

 life. Intelligent above most of his race, saga- 

 cious, gentle, affectionate; adapting himself 

 perfectly to the family ways, requiring little 

 care in winter or summer, safe in all places 



