CLASSIFICATION OF DOGS. 89 



size aiul weight liave been attained. The author attrib- 

 utes the defects, which seem to be more pronounced in St. 

 Bernards now than in other breeds, to the following 

 causes : Aiming to get vast size too speedily and by forced 

 feeding, causing a too rapid and consequently imperfect 

 growth ; the overuse of certain popular dogs in the stud, 

 enfeebling their constitutions and, of necessity, that of 

 their offspring ; judges favoring dogs that are giants in 

 size, though with the above defects, so that these dogs get 

 a factitious value in the stud and propagate their defects ; 

 insufficient exercise to develop bone, muscle, and stamina ; 

 show-dogs carrying too little muscle and too much fat 

 (lumber), which is greatly against health and high vitality ; 

 too much of the annatural surroundings of show life ; 

 the inadequate feeding of many rapidly-growing puppies, 

 causing rickets, etc. 



In the interests of this noble breed these things should 

 be pondered. 



Toy Dogs. — Several causes tend to render toy dogs 

 somewhat delicate. The small size demanded has led to 

 a constant selection of smaller and smaller specimens, 

 which, being naturally weaker and lacking in stamina, 

 have rendered the whole class difficult to rear and keep 

 in health. Being so much confined to the house, getting 

 but little exercise, and tempted with all sorts of tidbits, 

 indigestion and constipation, with the accompanying foul 

 breath, follow. But, ])y judicious breeding from dogs 

 small enough, yet healthy, and by due care in rearing, etc., 

 these difficulties may be overcome. 



Toy dogs are usually fairly intelligent, from their op- 

 portunities of mingling with mankind, but are apt, like 



