The Dalmatian Breed Profile

The name of this breed is taken from Dalmatia, a province of Austria & part of the former Yugoslavia; however, there is no certainty as to how the spotted dog first appeared in Europe, Asia & Africa. It is said that the dog was often seen in bands of gypsies, but it was in England where it first became well established as a dog of the British aristocracy, walking alongside their horse-drawn carriages.

By the 18th century the breed was recognised as a 'fire house dog', nicknamed because they were used by the fire wagons to lead the horses through the misty streets of London. The breed not only boasted nice eyesight, but the horses could see the dogs' spots & differentiate them from other canines. They were also nicknamed 'plum pudding dogs', 'carriage dogs' & 'coach dogs' & they were prized for their natural ability to bond with horses together with their great endurance & speed.

However, it was the film 101 Dalmatians that catapulted this breed to stardom & sent thousands of children in search of their own spotted dog. Regrettably plenty of Dalmatians became homeless as a result & Dalmatian rescue centres were established to re-home this pretty dog.

This breed has also been recorded as a dog of war, a sentinel on the borders of Dalmatia & Croatia. It's been employed as draft dog & as a shepherd. They are excellent ratters & have been used in sports as a bird dog, a trail hound, retriever, or in packs for boar or stag hunting. Their dignified temperament & excellent memory meant they were also used in circuses & on the stage.

While Dalmatian puppies are cute indeed, they grow in to a medium sized energetic dog that is both alert & athletic. They have a high energy level & can be excitable for small children.