148 WATCH DOGS, HOUSE DOGS, AND TOY DOGS. 



by preconcerted signal, but nevertheless it was remarkably well 

 managed, and stowed a degree of intelligence and discipline 

 worthy of a better purpose. Dancing dogs are also generally 

 poodles^ and indeed nearly all canine actors are of that de- 

 scription, including Sir Bulwer Lytton's impersonation of the 

 tribe in " What will he do with it," where the character of 

 " Sir Isaac " is drawn to the life. 



The poodle is characterised by a large wide head, rising 

 sharply at the forehead, long falling ears clothed with thick 

 curly hair, rather small eyes, square muzzle, with a liberal 

 allowance of jowl, and a sedate appearance till roused by any 

 prospect of fun. A well-formed pointer-like body, but covered 

 with thick closely curling hair, lianging down in ringlets be- 

 low ; tail usually cropped more or less, naturally covered with 

 crisp curls. Legs straight, and covered all round with hair 

 hanging in short ringlets. Feet small and round, and moderately 

 hairy. Colour white or black, or white and black. Height from 

 16 to 20 inches. 



The barhet is merely a small variety of the poodle, which it 

 resembles in all respects but size. 



