446 ITPLAXD sHOOTIXG. 



give it as their opinion that it was a corruption from gaze- 

 hound. 



Be that as it may, the name is now firmly attached to 

 this family of dogs, and there being such a close resem- 

 blance iu the several varieties, it is more comprehensive 

 to include all under the name greyhound. 



It is generally conceded that they were of Celtic origin, 

 and were brought by the various tribes to the southern 

 part of Europe and the British Isles. 



THE SCOTCH GREYHOrS^D 



Will be first considered, because they are better known 

 and are more numerous than either of the other varieties, 

 except the English greyhound, and perhaps more nearly 

 resemble the old Celtic hound. 



The extremes of size and peculiarity of coat were 

 brought about by breeding, to adapt them to the more 

 northern and rougher country, and in time they became 

 strong enough to pull down the largest stag. The coat is 

 long and wiry, and weU calculated to afford protection 

 against injury and the vicissitudes of the weather in the 

 Scottish mountains. 



They are large and powerfully made, with extra-strong 

 bone, and weU muscled. The color is more commonly 

 a dark brindle or gray, but often light fawn, or even 

 mouse-color. 



Being unable to pursue their game by sight in a mount- 

 ainous country, the power of scent was cultivated, and 

 speed was in a measure sacrificed to size; and fanciers of 

 the Scotch greyhound are careful to mention the fact that 

 they are able to pursue a wounded deer silently by the trail, 

 and when they have overtaken him, have the power and 

 courage to kill. 



Their size naturally inspires confidence, their coarse, 

 bristly coat giving them the appearance of being much 



