170 Hounds 



development. The quarters and the first and second 

 thighs must have the combination of length, breadth 

 and thickness, the hind limbs being the propellers 

 of the body, so that there is ample muscular develop- 

 ment for the onward propulsion of the body during 

 the forward stride. The waist should be well tucked 

 up. Concerning the relationship of the hind limbs 

 to the body, the feet should look directly forwards 

 and not turn outwards, otherwise the dog becomes 

 " cow-hocked," which is a very common defect, not 

 only in hounds but in certain other large varieties, 

 and it is a defect of conformation that is very likely 

 to be perpetuated, so that in the selection of a sire 

 or dam one can hardly be too particular as to absolute 

 freedom from this hereditary legacy. 



Regarding the carriage of the stern, the latter 

 ought to be, during repose, hanging down below the 

 level of the hocks, but it has a distinct upward curve 

 under excitement. 



The head must be long but the skull not broad; 

 a long, strong muzzle, sound, level teeth, small ears 

 carried close to the side of the head, together with a 

 keen facial expression and docile temperament, 

 constitute the complemental features characteristic 

 of a typical Irish Wolfhound. 



General Management and Kennel Hygiene. — Al- 

 though no longer required for work, it is necessary 

 to keep these hounds in good hard condition, which 



