412 



MAMMALIA. 



guarded against, as in the majority of cases they leave behind 

 them serious results. 



The period of gestation in the Dog is about sixty-three days — 

 a little longer than in the Wolf. The puppies, which vary in 

 number from six to twelve, are born with their eyes closed, and 

 do not open them until they are ten days old. At two years of 

 age they attain maturity. The Dog's average length of life is 

 about fifteen j^ears. 



The marvellous sense of smell in this animal has led to its beinjj 



Fig. It52. — Tiu-iispits. 



employed in hunting. In certain countries it is even used to track 

 human beings. The companions of Pizarro and Ferdinand Cortez 

 frequently employed Blood-hounds to capture the unfortunate 

 natives of Peru and Mexico. 



Sporting Dogs may be divided into two classes — the Running 

 Dogs or Hounds, and Setters or Pointers. The first follow rapidly 

 on a track or scent, giving tongue, and only stop when they have 

 captured or lost their game. The second follow silently on the 

 trail of game, sagaciously thread all deviations, and only cease 



