32 THE DESCRIPTIVE ANATOMY OF THE DOG. 



most probably that something resides in the nervous system. But 

 in order to understand this question, let us enter upon a considera- 

 tion of the various styles of gallop to which I have alluded. 

 Now, a careless observer might fancy that a gallop is a gallop, 

 whether short and quick or long and dwelling ; but, though 

 himself unable to comprehend the difference, his more experienced 

 friend would at once tell him that of two puppies submitted to his 

 inspection the gallop of one would probably lead on to victory, 

 whilst that of the other could only end in defeat. These various 

 styles of going I shall divide into 



Istly. The short, quick, merry, and terrier-like gallop, well seen 

 in the old Wiltshire greyhound. In this style there seems to 

 be no labour at all ; the fore-legs are not extended with an effort, 

 nor do the hind-legs and stifles seem to be brought forward with 

 any unusual power. Very high speed is never attained, but the 

 gallop, such as it is, may be maintained for an immense time. 

 There is a great power of stopping, turning, and starting without 

 effort, and a middling hare has little chance ; a fast Wiltshire hare 

 will, however, often get away without a turn. Wiltshire f Marquis ' 

 and his descendants* Critic ' and his stock partake of this 

 character. ' Cactus ' is a good specimen of the form. 



2ndly. The true greyhound gallop, in which there is more or 

 less effort apparent at every stroke, the shoulders and fore-legs 

 are well carried forward, and the hind-legs seem constantly 

 trying to overtake them. There is more or less elegance, but 

 the stifles are always well brought forward. It, however, requires 

 a good heart to keep up this style, which is somewhat fatiguing, 



