46 Modern Dogs. 



more ground than is usual with hounds of other 

 breeds. The skin is thin to the touch and extremely 

 loose, this being more especially noticeable about 

 the head and neck, where it hangs in deep folds. 



'^ Heigh f. — The mean average height of adult dogs 

 is 26in., and of adult bitches 24in. Dogs usually 

 vary from 25in. to 27in., and bitches from 23in. to 

 25in. ; but in either case, the greater height is to be 

 preferred, provided that character and quality are 

 also combined. 



" Weight. — The mean average weight of adult 

 dogs, in fair condition, is 9olb., and of adult bitches, 

 8olb. Dogs attain the weight of iiolb., bitches 

 loolb. The greater weights are to be preferred, pro- 

 vided (as in the case of height) that quality and 

 proportion are also combined. 



*' Expression. — The expression is noble and digni- 

 fied, and characterised by solemnity, wisdom, and 

 power. 



^^Temperament.. — In temperament he is extremely 

 affectionate, neither quarrelsome with companions 

 nor with other dogs. His nature is somewhat shy, 

 and equally sensitive to kindness or correction by 

 his master. 



'' Head. — The head is narrow in proportion to its 

 length, and long in proportion to the body, tapering 

 but slightly from the temples to the end of the 



