Angol
is a comprehensive handbook on canine breeds and their characteristics, likely written in the early 20th century. Thebookaddressestheincreasingpopularityofdogs as companions and household pets during this time, detailing the various breeds and offering practical guidelines for breeding and care. The open ing of the book sets the stage by discussing the historical relationship be tweendogsandhumans,highlightingtheevolvingfascinationwithdifferent breeds. Leighton reflects on the domestication process, tracing the lineage of the modern dog back to its wild ancestors. He also outlines the upcom ingchapters, whichpromisetodeliverthoroughinsightsintospecificbreeds and theirtraits, starting with a general history of the dog. This introductory portion not only establishes the book's structure but also conveys a sense of authority on the subject, infused with both historical context and the au thor's evident passion for canine companions.
There isno incongruity in the idea that in the very earliest period ofman's habitation of this world he made a friend and companion of some sort of aboriginal representative of our moderndog,andthatinreturnforitsaid in protecting him from wilderanimals, andinguardinghissheepandgoats, hegave it a share of his food,acornerinhisdwelling,andgrewtotrustitand care for it. Probably the animal was originally little else than an unusually gentle jackal, or an ailing wolf driven by its companions from the wild ma raudingpacktoseekshelterinaliensurroundings. Onecanwellconceivethe possibility of thepartnershipbeginninginthecircumstanceofsomehelpless whelps being brought homeby the early hunters to be tended and reared by the women andchildren. The present-day savage of New Guinea and mid Africa does not, as a rule, take the trouble to tame and train an adult wild animal for his ownpurposes, and primitive man wassurely equally indiffer ent to the questionable advantage of harbouring a dangerous guest.
