DOGS : THEIB MANAGEMENT. 337 



without fear. So strong is my impression that dogs have 

 a general comprehension of the meaning of sounds, that 

 when I have medicines to give, I always address them, 

 saying, " Come and take your physic." Some will do 

 as they are ordered ; but others are less obedient. I 

 have met with none (save clump-headed spaniels — which 

 of all dogs are the very worst behaved) that were not 

 to be subjected. Frankness and determination operate 

 wonderfully on these occasions. The animal soon learns 

 it must submit, and quickly ascertains you have no desire 

 to hurt it. The natural and beautiful confidence the 

 brvte reposes in man is thus appealed to, and it is surely 

 wise not to tamper with so noble a feeling. With dogs 

 be resolute and straightforward ; have no sense of fear, 

 and have no desire for deceit. Call upon the innate 

 submissiveness of the creature, and claim its obedience 

 as a right. The amiable brute will respond to such ap- 

 peals ; as the struggles which result from weakness ope- 

 rating upon sensibility will originate confusion, and pro- 

 voke those bites which are not maliciously aimed, but 

 intended for self-defence. 



GENEEATIVi; OEQANS. — FEMALE. 



The ignorant are always inclined to be officious where 

 procreation is concerned. The knowledge they pretend 

 to, concerning such matters, however, consists of mingled 

 indecency and mystery ; and, when exposed, only com- 

 mands contempt. The poor dog, nevertheless, suffers 

 cruelly through the practices which such persons subject 

 15* 



