CHAPTER IV 



CONFORMATION OF A HOUND 



With very few exceptions all hounds should con- 

 form to one type so far as their general build is con- 

 cerned, which should be upon such lines as are best 

 fitted for endurance and speed so typically portrayed 

 in the Foxhound, the conformation of which is, 

 to my mind, as near the ideal of physical develop- 

 ment for a given purpose as can reasonably be 

 expected. 



The Foxhound possesses a maximum of muscu- 

 larity, bone and substance, combined with economy 

 of material throughout the body. In a modified 

 degree all hounds should comply with the excellences 

 of bone and muscle attained by the Foxhound, the 

 construction of which has been the outcome of 

 centuries of careful selection in breeding. Under the 

 heading of this chapter no particular variety of hound 

 will be considered, but the hound's conformation 

 surveyed in a general manner, specific distinctions 

 being left for consideration under the sections 

 devoted to the different varieties of hounds. 



Irrespective of variety, every working hound 



must have one essential qualification, and that is a 



6i 



