Page:The power of the dog.djvu/86

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from the mainland. Colonel Malcolm's strain at Poltalloch, for instance, has existed for a long period, and Brogach, whose name figures in so many fashionable pedigrees, was of the breed taken to Portree in 1896 by Mr. James Mackintosh. They were only called "white" by courtesy, the real colour being a cream. For practical purposes this is near enough, the pure colour being obtainable by selection, and capable of being more or less permanently established in the course of a few generations.

Many of the characteristics of the West Highland White Terrier are similar to those of the Scottish. He is dead game, a glutton for work, and he, too, is exclusive in his attachments, with a dignity of demeanour that is particularly charming. He has not the demonstrative fussiness of some of the terrier family, for which reason he is a welcome member of the household. In his education firmness is needed to overcome a highly strung nervousness, which is only accentuated by correction. Indeed, a severe rating or a thrashing will make him for ever suspicious. Treat him with kindness tempered by a decisiveness that marks you out as his master, and he will be your devoted servant.

So great has been the demand for these dogs that puppies, even of moderate pretensions, command a high price, and the best are capable of fetching several hundreds. Mr. Viccars' Champion Kiltie was purchased by an American for 400 guineas, and others