Drover's Cur

The Drover's Cur

"The Drover's Dog is common in England, and possesses all the docility of the sheep-dog. The following story, among many similar ones, is proof of his sagacity and fidelity: A butcher was accustomed to purchase sheep and kine in the vicinity, which, when fattened, he drove to Alstonmarket and sold. In these excursions he was frequently astonished at the peculiear sagacity of his dog, and at the more than common readiness and dexterity with which he managed the cattle; until at length he troubled himself very little about the matter, but, riding carelessly along, used to be amused with observing how adroitly the dog acquitted himself of his charge. At length, so convinced was he of his sagacity, as well as fidelity, that he laid a wager that he would intrust the dog with a number of sheep and oxen, and let him drive them alone and unattended to Alston market. It was stipulated that no one should be within sight or hearing who had the least control over the dog, nor was any spectator to interfere. This extraordinary animal accordingly proceeded with his business in the most steady and dexterous manner; and, although he had frequently to drive his charge through other herds that were grazing, he did not lose one; but, conducting them to the very yard to which he was used to drive cattle when with his master, he significantly delivered them up to the person appointed to receive them by barking at his door! When the path which he traveled lay through grounds in which others were grazing, he would run forward, stop his own drove, and then, chasing the others away, collect his scattered charge, and proceed." 214-215

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