478 DOG-liltEAKING. 



the cavalry. Dogs which are over-headstrong and reso- 

 lute can only be brought under satisfactory command by 

 this lesson being indelibly implanted and I think a 

 master before he allows the keeper to take a pup into 

 the field to show him game, should insist upon having 

 ocular demonstration that he is perfect in the " Drop." 



26. When he is well confirmed in this all-important 

 lesson, obeying implicitly, yet cheerfully, you may, whilst 

 he is lying down in order to teach him the " down 

 charge " go through the motions of loading, on no ac- 

 count permitting him to stir until you give him the for- 

 ward signal, or say, " On." After a few times you may 

 fire off" a copper cap, and then a little powder, but be 

 very careful not to alarm him. Until your dog is quite 

 reconciled to the report of a gun, never take him up to 

 any one who may be firing. I have, however, known of 

 puppies being familiarized to the sound, by being at 

 first kept at a considerable distance from the party firing, 

 and then gradually and by slow degrees brought nearer. 

 This can easily be managed at a rifle or pigeon match, 

 and the companionship of a made-dog would much ex- 

 pedite matters. Whenever, in the lessons, your young 

 dog has behaved steadily and well, give him a reward. 

 Do not throw it to him : let him take it from your hands. 

 It will assist in making him tender-mouthed, and in 

 attaching him to you. 



27. In some cavalry regiments in India, the feeding- 

 time is denoted by the firing off of a pistol. This soon 

 changes a young horse's first dread of the report into 



