The greyhound is another worthy of mention. His origin dates so far back that authorities are unable to tell where the breed originated. Some historical writings tell of him being in Europe when his speed and killing ability were the only means of supplying meat for his master's table. Even today, the greyhound's instinct is to kill its quarry. In historic times these dogs were generally employed by hunters on horseback. Falcons were used to worry the pursued animal should he manage to outdistance the dogs over rough ground.

  At the present time there are a great many types of hounds, but they all appear to come from the greyhound. It is thought that as different forms of hunting became popular, the owners of dogs bred them to suit the particular kind of work for which they were to be used. Thus we have the stag hound, the deer hound, the wolf hound, etc. "What mattered in those days was whether a dog could do the work for which he was intended. Color was of no importance, nor was the length of the coat, as may be seen from the fact that there are both long-and short-haired types.

  The beagle is another hound which comes from this common origin. He was probably developed for the purpose of hunting deer, but his legs were too short and his body too thick-set to develop the speed necessary for this sport. In America his chief use is in hunting rabbits, and he is always willing to go to work. Through the years there have been several changes in his appearance, as old pictures prove, but according to the present standard his body should be sturdy, with muscular loins and thighs. His expression should be alert and intelligent, but his color is of less importance.

  There is one breed which has changed very little through many centuries, and that is the skye terrier. This dog originated in the western islands and the highlands of Scotland and is naturally a healthy little fellow. He is long and low in build, with strong short front legs and powerful hindquarters. He has a long lean head, with dark eyes and strong jaws. His coat is long and weather resisting, reaching nearly to the ground, with a soft undercoat. This little dog is not an example of evolution, but of adaptation to his surroundings. He needs no tail cutting or ear cropping; neither does he require plucking or trimming. So it may be seen that he is ideal for the one who has little time to spend on his dog's toilet.

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