IX. That “Fence” means that he is not to leave the place where you are. After being so checked a few times when he is endeavouring to quit the field, he will understand the word to be an order not to “break fence” ([46], [47]).
X. That “Find,” or “Seek,” means that he is to search for something which he will have great gratification in discovering. When he is in the field he will quickly understand this to be game ([34], [35]).
XI. That “Dead” (which it would be well to accompany with the signal to “Heel”) means that there is something not far off, which he would have great satisfaction in finding. On hearing it, he will come to you, and await your signals instructing him in what direction he is to hunt for it. When, by signals, you have put him as near as you can upon the spot where you think the bird has fallen, you will say, “Find;” for, until you say that word, he ought to be more occupied in attending to your signals than in searching for the bird. When you have shot a good many birds to him, if he is within sight, in order to work more silently, omit saying “Dead,” only signal to him to go to “Heel” ([19], [34], [35], [44]).
XII. That “Care” means that he is near that for which he is hunting. This word, used with the right hand slightly raised (the signal for the “Toho,” only not exhibited nearly so energetically), will soon make him comprehend that game is near him, and that he is therefore to hunt cautiously. You will use it when your young dog is racing too fast among turnips or potatoes ([39]).
XIII. That “Up” means that he is to sniff with his nose high in the air for that of which he is in search ([41]).
XIV. That “Away” (or “Gone,” or “Flown”) is an indication that the thing for which he was hunting, and of which he smells the taint, is no longer there. This word is not to be used in the field until your young dog has gained some experience ([45]).
XV. That “Ware” (pronounced “War”) is a general order to desist from whatever he may be doing. “No” is perhaps a better word: it can be pronounced more distinctly and energetically. If the command is occasionally accompanied with the cracking of your whip, its meaning will soon be understood ([47]).
XVI. He will also know the distinction between the chiding term “Bad” and the encouraging word “Good;” and, moreover, be sensible, from your look and manner, whether you are pleased or angry with him. Dogs, like children, are physiognomists ([40], end of [134]).
142. You will perceive that you are advised to use the right hand more than the left. This is only because the left hand is so generally employed in carrying the gun.
SHEPHERD’S DOG.