THE shepherd's .DOG. 725 



is a character which pervades most of the individuals of this 

 race, namely, that their feet are provided with one, and fre- 

 quently with two superfluous toes, which are destitute of 

 bony adhesion or muscular action, and hang dangling at the 

 hind part of the leg more like an unnatural excrescence than 

 a necessary appendage to the animal. But as " Nature has 

 made nothing in vain," these must certainly be destined for 

 some useful purpose with which we are yet unacquainted. 

 These dew-claws, as they are termed, are sometimes found 

 in the spaniel, pointer, and cur-dogs ; in the two former they 

 are generally cut off at an early age, as they are impediments 

 in covers, and frequently get torn, thereby creating sores, 

 and sometimes rendering the dog lame for days together. 

 The shepherd's dog seldom reaches two feet in height. 



This truly useful and intelligent animal is exceeded by no 

 other member of the canine race. He is remarkable for his 

 placid, obedient, serene, and grateful character. He is ever 

 alive to the slightest indication of his master's wishes, prompt 

 and gratified to execute them, and he seems to enjoy the 

 highest delight when employed in any kind of useful ser- 

 vice. Formed by nature with an instinctive propensity to 

 industry, he is never more pleased than in exerting his 

 talents for the benefit of man, and in affording constant 

 proofs of his inviolable attachment. 



The inherent calmness, patience, and devoted faithfulness 

 of the shepherd's dog render him insensible to all attractions 

 beyond the arduous duties connected with the flock under 

 his care. When once properly trained, he not only becomes 

 perfectly acquainted with the extent of his beat, but also 

 with every individual in the flock ; he will most carefully 

 select his own, and drive off such as encroach on his limits. 

 This appears the more extraordinary, when we consider the 

 vast extent of mountain country, (especially in Scotland,) 



