Background on Dalmatians

The Dalmatian has a more interesting background and heritage than any other breed of dog. The origins of the Dalmatian are so deeply buried in the past that experts can not agree on when this beautiful animal first graced the earth. The Dalmatian likely began life in Dalmatia, a province on the eastern shore of Austria, but the dog was also known to be found in bands of gypsy Romanies.

The Dalmatian has several nicknames: Spotted Dick, Coach Dog, Firehouse Dog, Carriage Dog, and more recently "Pongo" after one of the stars of the Disney movie "101 Dalmatians".

The versatile Dalmatian has been involved in a number of activities, but probably best known as a firehouse mascot, or fireman's dog. Contrary to popular myth, the Dalmatian is not a heroic dog and does not rush into burning buildings to pull out victims. The Dalmatian was used by firehouses in the 1800's to guard the firehall and firemen's property while the men were out fighting fires. The Dalmatian was also popular in the 1800's as a coach dog. The Dalmatian would run with the horses and when the coach owner arrived at his destination the dog would circle the coach and guard it. Dalmatians make excellent watchdogs and are extremely protective of their owners and their property. The Dalmatian has also been employed as a dog of war, did Sentinel duty in Dalmatia, worked as a shepherd, and a hunter of rodents and vermin.

The Dalmatian is also known as a sporting dog, bird dog, and retriever. The Dalmatian also competes in events with Apaloosa horses, another animal known for spots. The rider controls the dog's movements running either ahead, behind, or beside the horse. Dalmatians and horses take to each other beautifully and work well together.

The Dalmatian is well known for speed, endurance, agility, strength, and vitality to keep going until the end of the journey. This dog's gait is beauty in motion, and comes from the same line of breeding as a Greyhound. There is no dog more picturesque than the Dalmatian with the sleek white coat and round black spots. Some Dalmatians develop brown spots instead of black, and these are known as liver spotted Dalmatians. When Dalmatians are born, they are pure white with spots developing within weeks. The Dalmatian is a colorful, distinctive dog that is better recognized by the public than any other breed.

The Dalmatian is a quiet dog, knowing the difference between barking for fun and for a purpose. Dalmatian's personality's adapt to the lifestyle of the household they are brought up in. As such they may not be suitable for families with children, which can cause the dog to become noisy and high strung. The Dalmatian is cautious upon meeting new people, and for this reason makes an excellent watch dog, well suited to guarding his owners and their property.

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