94 Ladies^ Toy Dogs. 



muzzle, or mask, secured for him the term "carlin,** 

 from the resemblance to a harlequin who was famous in 

 France during the middle of last century. Previously the 

 breed was known in that country as " doguins " and 

 "roquets," names still retained in various parts. The 

 breed was carefully propagated, and highly esteemed 

 during many years, exclusively as parlour pets, many 

 wealthy families having their specially pure and cele- 

 brated " pugs." Such was the rage of fashion that no 

 lady was seen abroad without her pet, and when the 

 owner sat for his or her portrait, that of the pug occu- 

 pied a prominent place in the foreground. The old 

 English breed was distinguished by a black patch on the 

 head, known as the " black velvet," but the best breeds 

 of to-day are destitute of the mark. In Holland, and 

 Italy also, the breed has been highly prized, but in sym- 

 metry, colour, and special marking, the dogs are entirely 

 behind in all points of excellence. The Dutch dogs are 

 large, coarse, dull, and heavy, with crooked legs, those of 

 Italy being spoiled by impure crosses. The pug is a 

 perfect aristocrat in all his ways, especially in the pre- 

 sence of other dogs, but at heart he is minus the pluck 

 of our terriers. He nevertheless makes an excellent pet, 

 and settles down most admirably in the ways of ease and 

 luxury. 



Some years ago a strain of all black pugs was intro- 

 duced, it is said, by the late Lady Brassey, some of 

 which were exhibited, showing the characteristics of the 

 breed. As a contrast to these, others have been pro- 

 duced almost or altogether white. 



The origin of the black pug has been ascribed to 

 various sources. In one instance it is said to be the 

 result of pure accident, being a *' sport," descended from 

 an unusually dark coloured strain owned by a working 

 fancier in the north of London. Setting aside various 

 improbabilities, it is certain that Lady Brassey owned 

 several of these dogs, and although at the time it was 

 kept a close secret, it now seems to be well known that 

 they were Chinese or " Peking " pugs, obtained by her 



