The German or
large Danish dogs constitute but one breed, but of three varieties,
according to the coat: (1) those whose coat is of a uniform color, say
a slaty gray or isobelline of varying depth, without any white spots;
(2) those having a fawn colored coat striped transversely with black
like the zebra, but much less distinctly; (3) those having a spotted
coat, that is to say, a coat with a white ground strewed with
irregular black spots of varying size. These, like those of the first
variety are generally small-eyed. Whatever be the variety to which
they belong, the German or large Danish dogs are slimmer than, and not
so heavy as, the mastiffs. Some, even, are so light that it might be
supposed that they had some heavier blood in their veins. They have
also a longer muzzle, although square, and are quicker in gait and
motions.
The largest dogs are to be met with in this breed, and the beautiful
Danish dog belonging to Prof. Charcot (Fig. 2) is certainly the
largest dog in France and perhaps in Europe. It measures 36 inches at
the shoulders and has an osseous and muscular development perfectly in
keeping with its large stature, and at the same time has admirable
proportions and lightness, and its motions are comparable to those of
the finest horse.
[Illustration: FIG. 2--DR. CHARCOT'S LARGE DANISH DOG.]
Among the English dogs or mastiffs, we very frequently meet with
individuals in which the upper incisors and canines are placed back of
the corresponding ones in the lower jaw, this being due to a slight
shortening of the bones of the upper jaw, not visible externally.
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