Fetichism in Animals.—Discrimination of Insects

Abstract

I HAVE frequently noticed the fetichism of dogs, and was therefore much interested by Mr. G. J. Romanes' letter of December 27, which I have but just seen. Our terrier—a very queer character and a great warrior—is abjectly superstitious, He will not come near a toy cow that lows and turns its head, but watches it at a distance with nose outstretched. A vibrating finger-glass terrifies him; indeed he has so many superstitions that we often make him very miserable by working on his fears. I feel sure he constantly tries to understand, but never gets further than the sense of “uncanny”-ness. Dogs vary greatly as to this.