CHAPTER XXXIV 



THE IRISH TERRIER 



THE Irish' Terrier has many of the virtues of his 

 human compatriots full of fire and courage, with 

 a great heart, ready to tackle anything, he has well 

 earned the sobriquet of " Dare Devil.' 1 A better 

 companion no man or woman could desire. His 

 wants are few, and he gives generously in return for, 

 any little consideration. Blessed with a hardy con- 

 stitution, he is perfectly happy anywhere and under 

 any conditions, and, although he is not in the habit 

 of seeking quarrels, he can well hold his own when 

 one is forced upon him by some foolish creature who 

 does not know the prowess of his antagonist. He is, 

 of course, too long in leg and altogether too large for 

 going to earth after a fox or, badger, although he is 

 quite game enough to tackle Brock when occasion 

 serves. A terrier puppy is much more easily reared 

 than one of the larger varieties, and there is not so 

 much danger in turning him out to walk;*; he will 

 almost bring himself up. 



The dog has been known in Ireland for many; 

 years as a sportsman, but it is only during the last 

 two or three decades that he began to make headway 

 in this country. We now find large numbers benched 



Book of the Dog. 161 



