CHAPTER XX 

 THE SPANIEL 



THE striking sub -varieties into which the Spaniel is 

 now divided may be cited as a remarkable instance 

 of the useful results following upon careful selection. 

 The following; little note from the ninth edition of 

 the '-' Encyclopaedia Britannica," published between 

 1875 and 1889, will show that a knowledge of the 

 breed, everi in comparatively recent times, was not 

 very elaborate : " They include the common Spaniel, 

 the Water Dog, and the Setter, besides numerous 

 fancy varieties, as King Charles's Spaniel, the Blen- 

 heim Spaniel, and the Maltese Dog. The Spaniel is 

 the favourite of the sportsman, entering more than 

 any other dog into his master's feelings, and seeming 

 to enjoy the sport for its own sake. It is elegant in 

 form, with remarkably long ears and beautiful waved 

 hair, usually of a red and white colour. It takes 

 readily to the water, and has been known to exhibit 

 a remarkable propensity, as well as great dexterity, 

 in fish -catching. The Water Dog is larger than the 

 Spaniel, and is covered with abundant curly hair. 

 Its colour is generally a mixture of black and white. 

 From its aquatic habits it is of great service to the 

 waterfowl sportsman as a retriever. It is readily 



EooJc of the Dog. 8 97 



