DOGS *. THEIR MANAGEMENT. 351 



wide in the hind-quarters. She should be strong, and 

 rather large than small of her breed ; and where a dimi- 

 nution of size is desired, it is better to obtain it through 

 the father than the mother. When the last method is 

 adopted there is no danger of the bitch bearing pups of 

 gigantic proportions, and which she may not be capable 

 of bringing forth. The breed, also, should be as pure as 

 possible ; for there is a disposition in these animals to 

 throw back, as it is termed ; that is, supposing a bitch to 

 be of spaniel breed, to that degree which allows of no 

 cross being detected ; nevertheless if there should be a 

 stain of cur or terrier in her pedigree, one or more of 

 every litter she bears, may prominently exhibit it. It is 

 often long before this natural proof of a degraded family 

 can be entirely eradicated ; and it is very common for 

 persons to express surprise at the pups born resembling 

 neither of the parents they were derived from. 



Another caution not to be neglected is, to keep the 

 bitch from all communication with dogs it is wished her 

 progeny should in no way resemble. A low-bred play- 

 mate may not appear to be of much consequence ; and 

 the proprietor may imagine, if actual connexion is pro- 

 vided against, no further precaution can be required. 

 The females of the canine race, however, are able to 

 bestow their affections ; and tender recollections are as 

 potent over them as they are known to be in other cases, 

 where higher animals are concerned. Bitches are not 

 always prudent in their loves, but are apt to fling them- 

 selves away on curs of low degree. If reared with 



