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 years. 
The marvellous sense of smell in this animal has led to its being 
Fig. 162. — Turnspits. 
employed in hunting. In certain countries it is even used to track 1 
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 Punning 
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 
