The equipment of the dogs consists of collar straps, leashes, and
surcingles,[1] and the collar should be broad and soft so as not to
rub the dog's coat; the leash should have a noose for the hand,[2] and
nothing else. The plan of making collar and leash all in one is a
clumsy contrivance for keeping a hound in check.[3] The surcingle
should be broad in the thongs so as not to gall the hound's flanks,
and with spurs stitched on to the leather, to preserve the purity of
the breed.[4]

[1] {stelmoniai}, al. {telamonias}, broad belts or girths, corselets.
Pollux, v. 55.

[2] Pollux, v. 56.

[3] Lit. "since those who make the collar out of the leash do not keep
hold (al. take care) of their hounds well."

[4] See "A Day with Xenophon's Harriers," "Macmillan's Mag." Jan.
1895, p. 183.

As to taking the hounds out to hunt, no hound ought to be taken out
which refuses its food, a conclusive proof that the animal is ailing.
Nor again, when a violent wind is blowing, for three good reasons: the
scent will not lie, the hounds cannot smell,[5] neither the nets nor
hayes will stand. In the absence, however, of any of these hindrances,
take them out every other day.[6] Do not let your hounds get into the
habit of hunting foxes. Nothing is so ruinous; and just at the moment
when you want them, they will not be forthcoming. On the other hand,
vary the hunting-ground in taking them out; which will give the pack a
wider experience in hunting and their master a better knowledge of the