[ Harbison / Our Dogs: What We Should Know About Them ]
Clarence E. Harbison (1885 - 1960) was an American animal psychologist and author. His obituary in the New York Times (October 3, 1960) identified him as "a pioneer in the field of dog psychology" although he had no formal training, and as someone who "helped to pioneer obedience training for dogs in this country." As a joke a friend suggested to Harbison, at the Westminster Kennel Club show in 1919, that he set up as a dog psychologist at an upcoming dog show in New York. Almost as a joke Harbison did, and found himself with a long line of customers asking for help with their dogs. His new profession was born. He went on to serve as the "kennel editor" for various periodicals and managed several kennel clubs.
This book's only publication was in 1932 (New York: Orange Judd).
At the beginning of his book Harbison addresses the division of dogs into different groups; in the "Working Dogs" section he remarks that "The Newfoundland is a life-saving breed" (4).
In a section of the book advising first-time dog buyers, Harbison addresses the issue of size, and again mentions Newfs in passing:
If you live in the country, that is one thing; but if you live in an apartment, naturally a St. Bernard, Newfoundland or German Shepherd, or any other large dog, just will not fit in. Consideration in the matter suggests one of the terrier breeds. (7)
The third and final mention of Newfs occurs in the book's glossary:
Lengthy — Possessing length of body, as the Newfoundland ought to have. (197)