Towser, Schnauzer and Co.

The huge Alsatian dog one sees occasionally stalking the place like a policeman is not beloved by the farmer, and is out of place in the towns. Unemployment is just as bad for dogs as for men. The only excuse for keeping a dog is that it is of some use. I wonder what possible excuse can be found for the latest doggy importation into New Zealand, as reported from Auckland. This is a pair of what are described as Schnauzer dogs, pepper-and-salt of colour, shaggy of coat, with “exceptionally large paws.” (Remember Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf: “Oh, grandmamma, what large teeth you have!” “All the better to bite you with my dear!”)

The Schnauzer is German of breed. It may be of use in its homeland, but the sheepfarmer in New Zealand is quite content with the Scotch and other varieties of shepherd-dog he has already, and the cow-farmer is not looking for any barking strangers. All things considered, the Towser we know is preferable to the Schnauzer we don't.