“Some words occurred this morning arising from the barking of the dog last evening, and Sylvester's threat to kill the dog. Joseph quoting the proverb that ‘a soft answer turneth away wrath’ said, ‘I will give you a specimen of the spirit that is manifesting itself in our camp, if a dog bites me, I will kill him, if any man insults me, I will kill him — if any man injures me I will injure him’ — and this spirit keeps up division and bloodshed throughout the world. Sylvester Smith comes forth and says ‘If that dog bites me, I'll kill him.’ ‘If you kill that dog, I will whip you,’ replied Joseph.” — George A. Smith1
Old Major, a large white English mastiff, was a devoted and protective companion to Joseph Smith. Gifted to the Prophet by Samuel Baker during the Zion’s Camp march, Old Major quickly became attached to him. With his loyalty and protective nature, the dog was often by Joseph's side, guarding him.2
During Zion's Camp, Sylvester Smith threatened to kill the dog when Old Major reacted to a perceived threat from Sylvester and other camp members. Sylvester also complained about the dog’s barking during the night, leading to another heated exchange. Joseph stood firm against Sylvester's threats, declaring that if Sylvester killed the dog, he would retaliate.3
George A. Smith wrote that Old Major was highly protective of Joseph Smith.3 Joseph Smith III, the Prophet's son, recalled Old Major leaping from a window to follow his master.3
