460 DOGS USED FOR SPORT. ,,Jj 



is equivalent to the verbal order to drop, and from the start it 

 would be decidedly better to always uplift the hand when the 

 command is given, practicing- him until the signal only is required 

 to cause him to charge promptly. 



In the same manner can dropping to shot be taught by firing 

 off a pistol and instantly jerking the cord and saying " charge ; " 

 but it is best to commence with the cap only, advancing to very 

 small loads, and gradually increasing to full charges. The dog 

 nmst fully understand — to be perfectly broken in this particular— 

 that the uplifted hand means he should charge, no matter how far 

 he may be from you in the field ; and likewise that the report of 

 the gun has a similar signification. 



In these lessons patience must be studied, and the dog forcibly 

 impressed with the necessity of obedience, without being cruelly 

 treated ; on the contrary, praise and caress him when he does 

 well, but then only. 



BACKING. 



In order the more readily to teach your pupil to back another's 

 point when in the field and hunting, he should understand that 

 " Toho " is the command to stop or halt ; this is taught him af- 

 ter he has become prompt in charging, using the check cord as in 

 the first lessons. Provide yourself with some morsels of food ; 

 take the dog when hungry (having fastened the cord to his collar 

 as before), into an apartment or yard where there is nothing to 

 distract his attention, and throw a portion of food where he can 

 see it fall. He will naturally run for it ; as he does so, and when 

 on the point of seizing it pull the cord sharply and cry out " To- 

 ho ! " He will probably drop or charge, remembering the lesson 

 you first taught him. This is what is desired, so long as he stops. 

 Continue this until the cord is no longer required, and he will halt 

 at the verbal command, at the same time keeping him perfectly 

 familiar with the down charge by signal, and dropping to shot as 

 well, if you have determined to, and have already begun to teach it. 



In order to encourage a young dog to quick movement, and to 

 cultivate in him a free and speedy gait, take him with you in your 

 walks as often as possible, extending your rambles to the suburbs 

 where there are open fields and plenty of room. For a time keep 



