102 
Beagles and Beagling 
those who resorted to the practice knew the material 
with which they were working. Contrariwise, 
many a novice lias created havoc by mating closely 
bred individuals of which he knew nothing. 
Selecting the Dam 
Assuming, however, that the breeder or the pros¬ 
pective fancier has paid due regard to these briefly 
outlined principles of breeding. His selection for 
a brood matron should he one in perfect health. 
She should be well made, and at least a fair average 
as to type, and she should be temperamentally as 
well as physically right. Months before she is bred, 
her new owner should prepare for this event that is 
about to be. He should feed her well (and do not 
forget that a goodly portion of meat should be 
part of the ration), and he must exercise here regu¬ 
larly. Grooming is another thing that helps won¬ 
derfully, not only in keeping the coat in good con¬ 
dition, but the muscles remain pliable and the blood 
circulation is maintained. Many dog owners over¬ 
look this little attention as of no importance, but 
that is a mistake. W ho would keep a blooded horse 
and not have him groomed daily? Just so with the 
blooded dog. Groom them daily, exercise them 
regularly, give them the proper food, an abundance 
of pure, fresh water, and disease as well as all 
other complications will be reduced to a minimum. 
Before breeding it is also advisable to treat the 
prospective mother for worms. All dogs are afflicted 
with these pests more or less, and while whelps do 
not inherit them directly, it is as well, and in fact 
necessary, that there be no handicaps in the way 
