M o d e r n B r ea k in g 73 



But most )'Oung dogs will start right out to 

 hunting. If the dog does this, simply let him 

 go. If he is extremely bold, it may be well 

 enough to whistle him in occasionally, or 

 rather, to try to do it, for in all probability he 

 will not answer a whistle. But he must know 

 the whistle later, and this will serve as an in- 

 troduction. However, great care must be taken 

 at this period not to affect his boldness. If 

 he shows the least sign of irritation at an at- 

 tempt to direct him, the breaker should desist. 



The purpose of these first lessons is to make 

 the young deg bold ; to give him some idea of 

 ranging for game, and finally to let him scent 

 out and see birds. The dog will love this work 

 once he has done it. The sight and smell of 

 birds will increase his ardor, so that no matter 

 if he should be cowed a little when the work 

 of breaking begins, his spirits can be revived 

 by the work in the field. Thus prepared for 

 his yard breaking, whenever that has been 

 severe enough to give the young dog a setback 

 the work in the field that he has learned 

 to love will always raise his spirits. The two, 

 then, can be carried on profitably together. 

 But the fact should be impressed upon the 

 breaker that he must not be in too big a hurry 

 to begin the yard breaking. Give the young 

 dog plenty of field work first. Let him romp 

 and flush and chase and have a good time. 



