66 DOGS AND ALL ABOUT THEM 



esqueness depends so largely on the profuseness of their shaggy 

 coats, but there is a general tendency to overdo it. A good 

 stiff pair of dandy brushes give the best results, but the coats 

 must not be allowed to mat or tangle, which they have a 

 tendency to do if not properly attended to. Mats and tangles, 

 if taken in time, can generally be teased out with the fingers, 

 and it is the greatest mistake to try and drag them out with 

 combs. These last should be used as little as possible, and only 

 with the greatest care when necessary at all. An over- 

 groomed bob-tail loses half his natural charm. Far preferable 

 is a muddy, matted, rough-and-tumble-looking customer, with 

 his coat as Nature left it. 



