Introduction 15 



Although not endowed with conformation char- 

 acteristic of animals required for swift progression 

 like the Thoroughbred, the Greyhound, Deerhound, 

 etc., the Foxhound nevertheless is built upon lines 

 that suggest speed combined with endurance. Without 

 these qualifications it would be utterly useless for the 

 purpose for which it is required. This brings the 

 author to make a statement that very few will, on 

 reflection, feel inclined to dispute the truth of. It 

 is this: that the Foxhound is built upon lines dis- 

 playing greater economy of material than that of any 

 other variety of dog. Every ounce of bone and 

 muscle is placed where it can be utilized to the 

 best advantage. The comparatively small size of the 

 head and its lofty carriage, the obliquity of the neck, 

 the extreme capacity of the chest passing into a light 

 flank area, and on to powerful loins and quarters and 

 strong hocks, so combine by being thus placed in 

 relation to the body as to give a maximum of speed 

 combined with a maximum of endurance. 



The fore-limbs of the Foxhound, for bone, muscle 

 and tendon, offer a study in conformation and of 

 relation in application to purpose. The prolonged 

 exertion that Foxhounds have usually to perform 

 necessitates a high degree of staying power, and 

 this implies a stoutly-developed muscular system 

 without interference to speed. 



Just in the same way that the late Mr Robert Bake- 



