THE DOG. 31 



the family, and would unconsciously regard him- 

 self as such. The reason why he should so 

 regard himself will be discussed later, when we 

 come to consider the probable canine view of 

 the relationship. 



It would soon be found that his hunting in- 

 stinct was of use to his captors, for while wander- 

 ing- abroad with them, his keen nose would detect 

 the presence of hidden game when the eyes of 

 his savage masters failed to perceive it ; and 

 when a wounded animal dashed away, his speed 

 and instinct for following a trail by scent would 

 often secure what would otherwise have been 

 lost. The dog, in his turn, would find an easier 

 livino' and a better shelter while associated with 

 man than if he were hunting on his own account, 

 and thus the compact would be cemented by 

 mutual benefits. 



Now let us consider why the dog should so 

 readily fall into the position of the companion 

 and subordinate of man. What " stock and good- 

 will " did he bring into the partnership besides his 

 swiftness and powers of scenting and seizing his 

 quarry ? Let us look for a moment at his life at 

 home as apart from his duties while hunting. In 

 the first place, he evidently regards the dwelling 



