TRAINING AND HUNTING 45 



condition, while the naturally free and inde- 

 pendent nature of the American hound renders 

 his education along this line more difficult than 

 with the English. 



There is little or no excuse for the harum- 

 scarum manner in which hounds are generally 

 fed, handled, and taken to and from the hunt- 

 ing ground. With the use of " couples " and 

 an energetic " whipper-in " desirable results 

 will soon be apparent, especially if hounds are 

 roaded and packed when not actually en route 

 to and from the hunting ground. Good man- 

 ners, when once acquired, should not be al- 

 lowed to grow lax. By a display of resolu- 

 tion an unruly hound is readily subdued, and 

 if he is mastered at the beginning of his train- 

 ing is usually submissive afterward. If taken 

 in time the desire to resist can be more easily 

 overcome than the actual resistance can be con- 

 quered later on. 



Hounds, if properly treated, are capable of 

 great affection. Their confidence should never 

 be abused. The whip is the most dangerous 

 implement in most hands, especially in those of 

 the trainer whose temper is easily ruffled at 

 some offense or breach of discipline on the 

 part of the hound. Firmness and considera- 

 tion appeal more to the sympathetic nature of 



