75 



CHAP. IX. 



ANIMALS OF THE DOG KIND. 



XHE second class of carnivorous animals is neither so 

 numerous or so rapacious as the former ; they are pe- 

 culiarly distinguished by their claws, which have no 

 sheath like those of the cat kind, hut adhere to the 

 point of eaeh toe, without the power of being either 

 extended or drawn back : there likewise are internal 

 distinctions ; and their eyes are not formed for seeing 

 clearly in the dark. By comparing the habits and pror- 

 pensities of the two classes, we shall find, that whilst 

 the savage selfishness of the cat's disposition prevents 

 it from deriving any pleasure from society, the dog- 

 seems to find its gratifications increased by associating 

 with the species to which he belongs ; and in countries 

 where they are permitted to range with freedom, they 

 are always observed to hunt in packs. 



Though the claws of this animal are not calculated 

 for climbing, and of course it is not able to pursue its 

 game like the cat, yet its sense of smelling is allowed 

 to be much more exquisite, and enables it more easily 

 to discover its prey. 



The dog is allowed to be the most intelligent of all 

 quadrupeds, and one that doubtless is most to be ad- 

 mired; for, independent of his beauty, his vivacity, and 

 swiftness, he gives the most manifest proofs of his at- 

 tachment to mankind. In his savage state he may have 

 been a formidable enemy, but to view him at present 

 he seems only anxious to please ; he willingly crouches 

 before his master, and is ready to lick the dust from 

 his feet : he waits his orders, consults his looks, and is 

 more faithful than half the human race. He is con- 



