722 
MANUAL OF MODERN FARRIERY. 
upper part of the fore-leg ten inches ; length of the head 
fourteen inches ; his feet are webbed, or with the membrane 
connecting the toes extending to their tips, which enables 
him to swim with great ease and dexterity. He is covered 
with long, shaggy, flowing hair, and his fore-legs are feathered 
behind, as well as the hinder ones, as far as the hock joint. 
The fur in many is white, with black or dark brown patches 
and spots, but they are also met with plentifully of almost 
all colours, as chocolate, fawn-colour, cream-colour, and 
black. 
This dog is not remarkable for symmetry of form, or in 
the setting on of his legs, and consequently his motion is 
somewhat awkward and loose, and therefore he is not dis¬ 
tinguished for speed,—a defect which might be remedied 
by breeding, were an improvement in that particular de¬ 
sirable. 
The Newfoundland-dog is docile to a very great degree, 
and nothing can exceed his affection. Naturally athletic 
and active, he is ever eager to be employed, and seems 
delighted to perform any little office required of him. Na¬ 
ture has given him a great share of emulation, and hence to 
be surpassed or overcome is to him the occasion of great 
pain. Active on every emergency, he is the friend of all, 
and is naturally without the least disposition to quarrel with 
other animals. He seldom or never offers offence, but will 
not receive an insult or injury with impunity. Such is the 
capacity of his understanding, that he can be taught almost 
everything which man can inculcate, and of which his own 
strength and frame are capable. His sagacity can only be 
exceeded by his energies, and he perseveres with unabated 
ardour in whatever shape he is employed, and while he has 
a hope of success he will never slacken in his efforts to 
attain it. The amazing pliability of his temper peculiarly 
