COURSIXGK 457 



ently do well and thrive, and only see freedom for a very 

 few minutes each day, but a greyhound is not made that 

 way. 



Although you may exercise your authority, and 

 oblige them to go into the kennel, still it is better to 

 induce them to go in by offering a bit of food. Never 

 attempt to subdue their will or break their spirits, 

 for a greyhound becomes cowed and sneaky by harsh 

 treatment; their usefulness is greatly lessened, or, more 

 likely, they are ruined entirely. When of mature age, 

 they can, with patience, be taught anything, but usually 

 their education is sadly neglected, and they give one the 

 impression that they have little intelligence; but take those 

 having ordinary dog sense, and carefully teach them 

 various tricks, and see how readily they will take to their 

 lessons after finding out what is wanted of them. 



Actual field- training can begin about the tenth month, 

 especially with the females, as they develop about six 

 months earlier than the dogs. 



Allow them to follow the carriage or saddle-horse for 

 a short distance each day; but until the muscles are well 

 developed, they should not be allowed in the field after 

 game. 



When first taken to the coursing-ground, let them 

 accompany a pair of good reliable killers; and after the 

 game is secured, allow them to mouth it, and encourage 

 them by a friendly pat. Soon they will learn the trick, 

 and then may assist one dog for a race or two. They 

 may now be twelve months old, and a pair of youngsters 

 may be taken afield together. 



Their diet can be changed gradually to a drier and more 

 concentrated food, and the largest meal given at night, 

 that digestion may be completed while they are sleeping. 

 A bit of dry bread or a few small pieces of meat in the 

 morning is all-sufficient. 



