THE FOXHOUND.
The Foxhounds generally preferred are tall, light-made, but strong, and possessed of great courage, speed, and activity. No country in Europe can boast of Dogs of this kind, of equal swiftness, strength, or agility, to those of Great Britain, where the utmost attention is paid to their training. The climate also seems congenial to their nature; for it has been said that when Hounds of English breed have been sent into France, or other countries, they in some degree lose those admirable qualities for which they were once so remarkable. In England attachment to the chase has been considered a trait in the national character; from the care and attention which have been given to the rearing of Dogs and Horses, it is no matter of surprise that this country should excel all others in that diversion.
Many years since a very large stag was turned out of Wingfield Park, in the county of Westmorland, and was pursued by the Hounds, till, by fatigue or accident the whole pack was thrown out, except two favourite Dogs which continued the chase the greater part of the day. The stag returned to the park from whence he set out; and, as his last effort, leapt the wall, and immediately expired. One of the Hounds pursued him thither; but, being unable to get over, laid down and died: the other dog was found dead at a little distance.
THE HARRIER.
THE HARRIER.
These Dogs are kept for the business of the chase. They pursue the hare with the greatest eagerness, hardly giving her time to breathe. The most eager sportsmen find it sufficient exercise to keep in with their speed. There is a kind of Dog between this and the large Terrier, which forms a strong, active, and hardy Hound, used in hunting the otter. It is rough, wire-haired, thick-quartered, long-eared, and thin-shouldered. There is reason to suppose, that the Beagle and the Harrier must have been introduced into Great Britain after the Romans became masters of the island a thousand years ago, as, before that time the Britons were occupied in clearing their extensive forests of the various wild beasts, such as wild boars, bears and wolves, with which they then abounded; and for that purpose larger and stronger dogs than the Harrier or the Beagle would be required.
In the New Forest, in 1810, a person, in getting over a stile observed there was blood upon it; he knew that deer had been killed, and sheep stolen. He obtained a bloodhound. The dog being brought to the spot and led to the scent followed in it, and at length came to a heap of furze, belonging to a cottager. The woman of the house attempted to drive away the dog, but was prevented. On removing the faggots a hole was found containing the body of a sheep and a quantity of salted meat.