04 ‘Ladies’ Toy Dogs. 
“muzzle, or mask, secured for him the term “carlin,” 
from the resemblance to a harlequin who was famous in 
France during the middle of last century. Previously the 
breed was known in that country as “ doguins” and 
“roquets,” names still retained in various parts. The 
breed was carefully propagated, and highly esteemed _ 
during many years, exclusively as parlour pets, many — 
wealthy families having their specially pure and cele- 
brated “pugs.” Such was the rage of fashion that no 
lady was seen abroad without her pet, and when the 
owner sat for his or her portrait, that of the pug occu- 
pied a prominent place in the foreground. The old 
English breed was distinguished by a black patch on the 
head, known as the “ black velvet,” but the best breeds 
of to-day are destitute of the mark, In Holland, and 
Italy also, the breed has been highly prized, but in sym- 
metry, colour, and special marking, the dogs are entirely 
behind in all‘points of excellence. The Dutch dogs are 
large, coarse, dull, and heavy, with crooked legs, those of 
Italy being spoiled by impure crosses. The pug is a 
perfect aristocrat in all his ways, especially in the pre- 
sence of other dogs, but at heart he is minus the pluck 
of our terriers. He nevertheless makes an excellent pet, 
and settles down most admirably in the ways of ease and 
luxury. 
Some years ago a strain of all black pugs was intro- 
duced, it is said, by the late Lady Brassey, some of 
which were exhibited, showing the characteristics of the . 
breed. As a contrast to these, others have been pro- 
duced almost or altogether white. 
The origin of the black pug has been ascribed to 
various sources. In one instance it is said to be the 
result of pure accident, being a “‘sport,” descended from 
an unusually dark coloured strain owned by a working. 
fancier in the north of London. Setting aside various 
improbabilities, it is certain that Lady Brassey owned 
several of these dogs, and although at the time it was 
kept a close secret, it now seems to be well known that 
they were Chinese or “Peking” pugs, obtained by her 
