Stonehenge’s “The Dog”: The Setter. One of the most important documents of the canine European literature of all time

Back, quarters and stifles – A strong back is a great point in this dog, who is apt to be narrow in this part, and especially at the junction with the ribs. Ragged hips are often met with in the best strains and with a proper allowance of muscle should be valued instead of the reverse. A slight arch falling to the root of the tail is a beauty in my eyes, but not set as in the wheel-back.” Wide stifles, well bent t should be looked for; and in fact, the propellers must be attended in every respect.
.-Setters are almost straight always straight on their legs, with elbows well let down and strong hocks. The ansence of these points is, therefore, to be regard d as unpardonable. Strong lower thighs are very important. The feet are the strong points of the setter, and without hard soles and plenty of hair between the toes he loses half of his recommendations. The toes are often hare-like, instead of resembling those of the cat ; and I am by no means sure that when so formed there is not an advantage.
The flag differs from that of all other dogs, being fringed with long hair falling like the teeth of a comb, and without the bushiness of other hairy tales. The bones themselves should taper from the root, and should be curved like a scimitar when at rest, rising a little above the level of the back when “on. the point,” and then displaying the comb-like appearance to which I have alluded, with a very slight curve only. The feather should be free from curl, silky in texture, and about 6 or 7 inches long in the middle, tapering to half an inch at the extreme point.
Texture and feather of coat.—The texture is an indication of breed, and should be silky, with a slight wave, but no curl. In the best breeds the coat looks and feels greasy without being really so ; at least no grease is left on the hand when patting it. The feather should fringe the fore and hind legs thinly but regularly, and also the flag, as above remarked.