Facts On Dalmatians

Dalmatians, an older breed thought to originate in Europe, have served as hunting, sporting and coaching dogs throughout history. Breeding has made them athletic dogs that possess both power and stamina, and they're the only breed with a distinctively spotted coat. Dalmatians are loyal to their owners and interact well with people.

  1. Origin of the Breed

    • The ancestry of the dalmatian is uncertain. Ancient paintings, engravings and records from various European locations describe spotted dogs, though none definitively answer where dalmatians first called home. Despite popular belief, no solid evidence links their origins to the region near the Adriatic Sea called Dalmatia, though they were prominent there. Dalmatians eventually spread throughout Europe and became popular as working animals particularly beloved in England, where they became the one and only coaching dog -- work unique to the breed. Throughout their history, dalmatians have served in war, as hunters and as sporting dogs.

    The Coaching Dog

    • For hundreds of years, the dalmatian was bred to accompany coaches and carriages while guarding the horses that pulled them, and the term "coaching" refers to the way the dogs worked. When horses were hitched and pulling a carriage, the dalmatian ran to the side and slightly behind to chase off other dogs or potential thieves. The breed developed a close affinity with horses to the point where working with them became instinctual.

    In the Firehouse

    • It was only natural that the dalmatian was put to practical use with the rise of horse-drawn fire apparatus. Dalmatians served both as guard dogs in the firehouse and as escorts for equipment when it was pulled to an emergency. Dalmatians quickly became firehouse icons. Even after the fire engine and other mechanical equipment was put into use, firefighters had developed such a fondness for the breed that many continued to keep the dogs at fire stations.

    Phyiscal Characteristics

    • While the most striking characteristic of the dalmatian is its spotted black-and-white coat, puppies are born with solid white fur. The base coat of the adult dalmatian is white, with round, defined black spots. Liver-colored spots are also acceptable, but any other color is considered a fault. The hair of the coat is short and sleek with a glossy appearance. The Dalmatian is an athletic dog -- muscular without being thick or stocky, powerful yet well-defined and elegant. The muzzle is strong without being broad and the feet are large and feature arched toes.

    Personality and Traits

    • Dalmatians are highly energetic and very intelligent. They can be stubborn, even willful, so proper training is essential. While bred to work with other animals and people, dalmatians tend to be very loyal to one owner, handler or small family. They may become protective of their owners and wary or suspicious of strangers. For the most part, however, they are happy, active dogs that enjoy social interactions with people. Dalmatians need plenty of activities as outlets for their energy.