Modern Breaking 55 



cord can be used for a variety of purposes and 

 results can be accomplished with it and an im- 

 pression made upon the dog's mind that will be 

 more lasting and satisfactory than when ac- 

 complished with the whip. The check cord is 

 used sometimes with a plain collar or in con- 

 nection with a choke or spike collar. 



Some breakers use the check cord for the 

 purpose of punishing the dog, preferring it to 

 the whip. To some extent it is useful for this 

 purpose, but carried too far its usefulness is 

 destro]/ed. When a dog is on a point and the 

 gun is discharged at the rising bird it is well to 

 check the dog sharply with the line to make him 

 drop to shot and wing, but the whip should be 

 drawn quickly and the dog given a cut or two 

 to compel prompt obedience. This should be 

 done rather than to continue the checking. The 

 cord is useful, too, when the dog breaks in or 

 attempts to flush. As he starts he should be 

 jerked back sharply and given a few lashes, 

 compelling him to drop at the place he should 

 have gone down to shot or wing. 



The long check cord is useful in forcing a 

 xldg to "come in." He should be taken to an 

 inclosure, and when at the end of the cord 

 should be ordered sharply to come in. Accom- 

 panying the order, a severe check should be 

 given the dog, and this should be continued 

 until he comes to the breaker. When he comes 



