726 MANUAL OF MODERN FARRIERY. 



and the numerous flocks committed to the charge of a single 

 shepherd, a duty which he could not possibly perform but for 

 the invaluable services of this sagacious animal. A word or 

 signal from the shepherd will direct the dog so as to comluct 

 the flock to any point required, and that signal he will obey 

 with energy and unerring certainty. 



Some have imagined the shepherd's dog destitute of the 

 social characters for which most dogs are remarkable, and 

 that his nature is sullen and sleepy ; these, however, origin- 

 ate in mistaking the true virtues of the animal. Accus- 

 tomed to the company of his master alone in those dreary 

 and unfrequented wilds, he naturally acquires a thoughtful 

 and expressive gravity ; and, like man himself, when unac- 

 customed to society, he becomes habitually taciturn and shy. 

 This is his character in remote situations ; for where he is 

 accustomed to see strangers, he exhibits all the amiable qua- 

 lities of other dogs. His sagacity, afiection, fidelity, compre- 

 hensive penetration and activity are exceeded by no other 

 dogs ; the frequent excursions he necessarily makes during 

 the day afford him sufficient exercise. This is his character 

 all over Europe. 



Of the wonderful susceptibility for training, the following 

 anecdotes will sufficiently illustrate the intelligence of the 

 shepherds dog. 



Few instances of greater sagacity in a dog can be adduced 

 than the following : — The owner himself having been hanged 

 some years before for sheep-stealing, this fact, among 

 others respecting his dog, was fully authenticated by evi- 

 dence on the trial. When the man intended to steal a sheep, 

 he did not do it himself, but directed his dog to perform the 

 business. With this view, under pretence of looking at the 

 sheep with an intention to purchase them, he went over the 

 grounds with the dog at his feet, to whom he secretly gave a 



