Hunting Dogs: Describes in a Practical Manner the Training, Handling, Treatment, Breeds, Etc., Best Adapted for Night Hunting as Well as Gun Dogs for Daylight Sport

"Hunting Dogs" by Oliver Hartley is a practical guide on the training, handling, and breeding of hunting dogs, specifically tailored for both night hunting and daylight sporting purposes. Written in the early 20th century, this work serves as a comprehensive resource for hunters and dog owners, discussing various breeds and their specific roles in hunting different types of game. Hartley emphasizes the practical aspect of hunting, focusing primarily on methods that have been tried and tested by experienced hunters rather than theoretical approaches. The opening of the guide introduces the popularity of night hunting, particularly raccoon hunting, and highlights the increasing demand for trained dogs in this pursuit. It discusses the clever tricks employed by raccoons to evade hounds and stresses the need for well-trained dogs to successfully navigate and handle these situations. Hartley shares anecdotal experiences and tips about the characteristics of effective hunting dogs, their training process, and the vital importance of their ancestry and breed in determining their suitability for various types of hunting.