1 56 THE BOOK OF THE DOG. 



persistently confuse the Yorkshire with what they term the "Scotch Terrier" thereby meaning 

 the Skye, we presume. There is, however, no visible ground or reason ever given for their 

 opinions, which are certainly based on error, and ignorance of the subject. Before leaving the 

 subject of the Yorkshire Terrier's origin, it may be remarked that the puppies are born black 

 in colour, as are Dandie Dinmonts, and do not obtain their proper shade of coat until they 

 are some months old. Searchers after the truth may here discover some connection, which 

 we ourselves confess we do not, between the Yorkshire and Dandie Dinmont Terriers, in 

 consequence of this peculiarity in the young of both varieties. 



Whatever the merits of an ordinary Yorkshire Terrier may be as a companion, it is not 

 within the bounds of probability that many of the first-class show specimens are capable of 

 much exertion out of doors, or attachment to their masters. The quality and extent of their 

 coats must preclude them from venturing beyond the door-step in anything but the finest 

 and dryest weather, whilst the additional disadvantage of being blinded by the hair which 

 grows on their heads would render it impossible for them to pick their way about with any 

 safety. The long hair on the forehead is, however, usually neatly plaited, save on state 

 occasions, and much labour thereby saved the owner, though if left plaited too long without 

 being undone it is liable to get broken and matted. 



The most careful attention which can be devoted to any dog is demanded by this 

 Terrier, as the fineness of his coat makes it peculiarly inclined to tangle up and get out 

 of order. It being too long to derive any material benefit from the application of the 

 hair glove which is mentioned in the chapters on kennel management, a long, though not 

 too hard, bristled brush has to be resorted to instead. The best design of brush is the 

 pattern called " balloon"-shaped brushes, whose bristles are not of equal length, those in 

 the centre being longer than the outside ones. The advantage of this shape is that there 

 are no sharp corners to irritate the dog's delicate skin ; and it is easier to draw a round- 

 surfaced brush through the coat, without causing injury to the hair and skin, than it is a 

 flat one. Whilst referring to the delicate skin of this breed of dog, the unpleasant consequences 

 arising from heated blood cannot be unnoticed. If a Yorkshire Terrier once commences 

 scratching himself, and is not speedily and effectually prevented from continuing to do so, 

 there will be very little chance of having him in show trim for a long time, for he will 

 tear himself to pieces. To remedy this it is customary to tie up the feet in small bags 

 of wash-leather, so that injury to the skin is not likely to be brought about if the animal 

 scratches. It is, however, desirable to limit the cause of the evil as much as possible by 

 providing suitable diet, which should be of a farinaceous and not heating quality. Milk 

 biscuits, and bread steeped with vegetables in gravy, form an excellent food for toy dogs, and 

 one upon which they will thrive wonderfully if at the same time properly looked after. 

 Regular ablutions are also indispensable to their welfare and well-being, though we have been 

 told by some exhibitors that they consider soap and water injure the texture and colour of 

 the coat, and therefore they prefer to rely more upon careful and frequently-repeated 

 grooming. 



Considerable difference of opinion exists amongst its supporters as to the correct weight 

 of a Yorkshire Terrier, as many specimens are to be found from 4 to 5 pounds up to 14 or 

 15, or even more. No distinct classes are usually made for this breed at the leading shows, 

 which has doubtless in some way been responsible for this variety of opinion. As it is, the 

 large dogs of the breed usually take their place in the class for "Rough-haired Toys other 

 than Spaniels, Maltese, or Pomeranians," and the small ones find themselves relegated to 



