116 DOMESTICATED DOGS FOR THE GUX. 



of our houses, which is a sti'ong objection even to the poodle as a 

 toy dog. As, therefore, we have no ground for separating the 

 land from the water dogs b)' this strong line, I have not 

 attempted to do so, but have grouped them according to the 

 divisions under which thej^ naturally fall. 



The Old Englislt. water spaniel is particularly fond of the 

 water, and will enter it in almost all weathers by choice, while 

 it never is too cold for him when any game is on it. His powers 

 of swimming and diving are immense, and he will continue in 

 it for hours together, after which he gives his coat a shake and 

 is soon dry. Indeed, when he first comes out he does not seem 

 thoroughly wet, his oiled and woolly coat appearing to set at 

 defiance the approach of water. His nose is pretty good, and 

 he is capable of an excellent education ; but it takes some time to 

 break him thoroughly, as he is required to be completely under 

 command, and is a very restless dog by nature, whereas his 

 duties demand perfect silence. There are generally said to be two 

 distinct breeds, one larger than the other, but in other respects 

 alike. 



His jioints are as follows : — Head long and narrow, eyes small, 

 and ears of medium length, covered with thick curly hair. Body 

 stout, but elegantly formed, with strong loins, and round barrel- 

 like chest, which is broad across the shoulders. The legs are 

 rather long, but very strong, the bone being of great size, and 

 well clothed with muscle. Feet large and spreading, tail covered 

 thickly with long curly hair, and slightly curved upwards, but 

 not carried above the level of the back. 



