72 THE COMPLETE WILDFOWLER 
best wildfowl dogs are only seen in the hands of those who 
understand how to break as well as work their dogs. We 
dismiss the point, however, by observing that an average dog 
is much better than no dog at all, though in the pleasures 
of shooting we find nothing to delight us more than a real 
champion working dog. 
Good dogs need every care. Indeed they should have it, 
because they are worth it. Do not allow anyone to molest 
your trained comrade. Remember that he is highly strung — 
and is easily spoilt by interference. I need scarcely add that 
attention to the dog’s health is an important item relative to 
its working abilities. If a valuable dog is ailing, a wise 
man will solicit the services of a veterinary surgeon at once, 
but I would advise that the ‘‘ vet.” be a canine specialist. A 
dog failing in health may readily be detected by the dullness 
of its eyes and the heat of its nose. 
