HOGS. 21 



The Mastiff. 



THE MASTIFF may properly be termed a house- 

 dog; it is a large-sized, noble-looking animal, formed 

 in every way for the important trust of guarding 

 valuable property: committed to his care, and under 

 his keeping, the gardens, yards, and house, are per- 

 fectly safe; for while he is on duty, no stranger dare 

 approach the premises; a growl of defiance gives 

 timely notice of the least intrusion, and should the 

 stranger have the temerity to enter, he meets with 

 so fierce an opponent, that he is soon glad to retreat. 



During the day, the Mastiff is usually confined to 

 his kennel; but at the appoach of night, his task of 

 watchfulness commences; he is then left to range at 

 full liberty; and woe to the trespasser who dares to 

 intrude upon the premises with the care of which he 

 is intrusted. 



The Mastiff has a peculiarly flat large head, and 

 blunted short muzzle; his full lips hang over the 

 lower jaw: his ears are small, and rather pendulous. 

 His aspect is peculiarly sullen and grave; and his 

 voice is loud and deep-toned. Too much confine- 

 ment makes him ferocious; but a judicious mode of 

 treatment renders him docile, useful, and faithful. 



