Velo-dog

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The Velo-Dog was a Pocket pistol, a small type of revolver originally created in France in the late 1800s as a defense for cyclists on their velocipedes, who were likely to be set upon by large and ferocious dogs. For the more humanitarian, there were cartridges loaded with spice or salt.

Surviving examples vary considerably in appearance, but all have certain features in common. All have short barrels and fired a type of .22 cartridge that is similar in appearance to a .22 Long Rifle, but of considerably lower power; this is itself referred to as a velo-dog. The hammer is shrouded to avoid it snagging on clothing so the weapon is double action only. Another unusual feature is the lack of a Trigger guard and a trigger that folds into the body of the gun, when not in use.