202 REARING. 



eye, so that it is necessary to take this into consideration in making 

 the selection ; but fat is a sign of strength, both actual and consti- 

 tutional, when it is remarkably permanent in one or two among a 

 litter, for it can only be obtained either by depriving the others of 

 their share of milk by main force, or through such constitutional 

 vigour as to thrive better on the same share of aliment. The navel 

 should be examined to ascertain if there is any rupture, and this 

 alone is a reason for deferring the choice till nearly the end of the 

 first week, up to which time there is no means of judging as to its 

 existence. Indeed, if possible, it is always better to rear nearly 

 all till after weaning, either on the dam herself or on a foster- 

 nurse, as at that time the future shape is very manifest, and the 

 consequences of weaning are shown, either in a wasting away of 

 the whole body, or in a recovery from its effects in a short time. 

 Sometimes, however, there are not conveniences for either, and 

 then recourse must be had to an early choice on the principles 

 indicated above. 



THE FOSTER-NURSE 



Need not be of the same breed as the puppies which she is to 

 suckle, and at all times a smooth-skinned bitch is superior for the 

 purpose to one with a rough coat, which is apt to harbour fleas, 

 and in other ways conduces to the increase of dirt. For all large 

 breeds the bull- terrier (which is the most commonly kept among 



