[Contents]/[Detailed Contents, p. 3]/[Index]
The Early Training of the Dog.
The education of these dogs should commence at an early period, whether conducted by the breeder or the sportsman; and the first lesson — that on which the value of the animal, and the pleasure of its owner, will much depend — is a habit of subjection on the part of the dog, and kindness on the part of the master. This is a
sine quâ non
. The dog must recognise in his owner a friend and a benefactor. This will soon establish in the mind of the quadruped a feeling of gratitude, and a desire to please. All this is natural to the dog, if he is encouraged by the master, and then the process of breaking-in may commence in good earnest.
No long time probably passes ere the dog commits some little fault. He is careless, or obstinate, or cross. The owner puts on a serious countenance, he holds up his finger, or shakes his head, or produces the whip, and threatens to use it. Perhaps the infliction of a blow, that breaks no bones, occasionally follows. In the majority of cases nothing more is required. The dog succumbs; he asks to be forgiven; or, if he has been self-willed, he may be speedily corrected without any serious punishment.
A writer, under the signature of "Soho," in
The New Sporting Magazine