Why Call Them Dalmatians?

Nobody can mistake a Dalmatian for any other breed because of their white coats with black spots. They look like polka dot calls! They're named Dalmatians because they come from the region of Dalmatia, in Croatia. Their history was as war dogs, guarding the region's borders. Because of this background, they are still good guarding dogs and will protect members of their human family.

The reason Dalmatians are associated with firefighters goes way back to the days when fire engines weren't motorized; they were drawn by horses. Dalmatians were a breed of dog that got along particularly well with horses, so they were trained to run ahead of the fire carriage to clear a path and guide the firefighters to the fire. Additionally, the Dalmatians were used as rescue dogs to run into burning buildings and find victims. Historians believe that these dogs were also used to guard the firehouse and its equipment when the firefighters were sleeping or away from the firehouse, especially to deter horse thieves.

Many firefighters choose Dalmatians as their pets because of the tradition associated with them serving in the fire service. Many firehouses that have paid full-time officers "adopt" a Dalmatian and share the duties of caring for it as a firehouse mascot and pet.

To further increase the popularity of this breed of dog, the book and later Disney films 101 Dalmatians spurred interest in these dogs and breeders made a lot of money during that period. Unfortunately, many people didn't first investigate the temperament and needs of this breed of dog before taking them home to their children, and many found them to be too energetic and gave them up to animal shelters.

Dalmatians, though generally a healthy breeds, do tend to have a couple of specific health problems common to this type of dog. One of those is a predisposition to deafness. You've heard the information about how white cats with blue eyes are usually deaf, haven't you? Because Dalmatians are primarily albino (white) with black spots, the absence of certain pigment predisposes them to deafness. The other health concern for these dogs is bladder stones, much like kidney stones and gall stones in humans. The good news is that Dalmatians are less likely to suffer hip dysplasia that is common to other dogs.

Dalmatians usually weigh between 50-75 pounds and stand at a height (from ground to their shoulders) of about two feet. In this breed, the males are larger than the females and the average life span is 12-14 years. Puppies are born without spots in litter sizes averaging eight pups. Their spots don't start appearing until a few weeks after they're born. It's a good thing that these dogs have short hair, because they shed year-round. Even with brushing, Dalmatians are going to be messier than other dogs that shed because their hair is barbed at the ends, making it sticky, so it sticks to everything it touches (clothing, sofa, etc.).

The Dalmatian is also associated with beer. Yes, beer. Anheuser-Busch is famous for its horse-drawn wagon and there is always a Dalmatian accompanying it. The dog and the Clydesdales have become iconic and their Super Bowl commercials are sometimes funny, sometimes endearing to the point of making you cry.

A Dalmatian is not a good choice if you live in an apartment because they like to run several times daily. They need some size yard to play in, but they should be an indoor/outdoor dog breed as they don't do well outside during the winter.

Next time you see one of those "spotted dogs," you'll know a little bit more about its history and some of the reasons the breed is famous.

Dalmatians - A Guide to the Breed

The Dalmatian is an ancient breed whose heritage is hotly disputed, it is thought by many to date back to 2000BC and to have come through the centuries relatively unchanged. Paintings of Dalmatians running alongside chariots have been unearthed in Egyptian tombs as well as in the remains of ancient Greece and Rome. Some believe that the breed originates from Dalmatia, Croatia but there is little evidence to prove this. Over the years Dalmatians have been used for a wide variety of jobs including dogs of war, border patrols, sheep herders, cart pullers, circus performers and coaching dogs. The Dalmatian breed has always been closely associated and retained a strong affinity with horses. They became popular with aristocracy after the breeds' introduction to Britain in the 18th century and often ran along side ornate carriages. Their strong bodied athletic build and limitless energy and stamina reflect these years as a coach dog.

Dalmatians were also adopted by fire departments in the 1800's and were trained to run through the streets clearing the way and guiding the horse drawn water wagons and fire fighters to the fires. They were sometimes also used as rescue dogs to locate victims in burning structures. Dalmatians make good watchdogs and were employed by fire brigades to guard there firehouse and equipment. As the fire engines were often the targets of thieves. As a result, many modern day fire fighters in the US have Dalmatians as pets and they are commonly known as firehouse dogs.

To this day the Dalmatian retains its guarding instinct but while they are friendly and loyal to those they trust, they are often aloof with strangers and other dogs. The breed also has a strong hunting instinct which makes it an excellent exterminator of rats and vermin, in the past they were used as bird dogs, trail hounds and retrievers as well as in packs for stag and boar hunting.

The Dalmatian breed had a massive surge in popularity as a result of the 1956 novel 'The hundred and one Dalmatians' by Dodie Smith and later due to the Disney and live-action films that followed. But the breed suffered when unscrupulous breeders began breeding high numbers without ensuring the health, quality and temperament of the dog.

Although Dalmatians are relatively easy to train as they have a willing nature and an eagerness to please, many well-meaning owners purchased Dalmatians without learning about the responsibilities and commitment required. Since the dogs were originally bred to run with horses they have high levels of energy and stamina and need frequent exercise. As many owners found themselves unable to provide the adequate care many Dalmatians were abandoned and left with animals shelters. This left the breed with a bad reputation of being difficult to manage.

Most health problems in Dalmatians are as a result of old age and they can live for up to 15 or 16 years. Although the one common problem found with the breed is deafness, this occurs in several dog types that have light pigmentation including bull terriers, poodles, boxers and boarder collies. Puppies can be tested after five weeks to see if this defect is present and reputable breeders test their dogs prior to breeding. Research shows that Dalmatians with larger patches of colour at birth, and brown eyes rather than blue, generally have less hearing defects.

One other health issue with the breed is Kidney and bladder stones which occur due to the lack of an enzyme called uricase which is not present in the Dalmatians gene pool at all. Males over 10 years old are prone to kidney stones and should take preventative medication. Owners should be careful to limit the intake of purine which is present in organ meats and animal by-products.

In America the Dalmatian is associated with Budweiser beer and 'Busch Gardens' theme parks as the famous Anheuser-Busch horse drawn beer wagon is always accompanied by a Dalmatian carriage dog. The brewer maintains several touring teams and claims that Dalmatians were historically used by brewers to guard the wagons while the drivers made their deliveries.

A Short History of the Popular Dog Breed - Dalmatians

First references to Dalmatians as a breed of dogs are found in history since mid 18th century. However, the breed was well known throughout the world long before the 18th century. Spotted dogs of the same size and type have been found in paintings, engravings, models and early writings. These dogs were commonly found in Africa, Asia and Europe. These dogs probably accompanied ancient gypsies, which can explain their vast spread and popularity. The term Dalmatians is derived from the place of origin of the dogs, a region known as Dalmatia. Dalmatia is located in the Adriatic region in Western Yugoslavia.

Although a favorite pet of man since ancient times, Dalmatians became truly famous after the elite class of Great Britain brought them home. The upper class of the British society used to tour Europe in the 18th century. They often brought back these spotted dogs. The breed attracted attention of the masses due to its striking looks. The English aristocracy used the Dalmatians to accompany their horse drawn carriages. They were placed below the rear axle of the coach. They also trotted below the pole separate the two horses. Many a times, they led the procession by trotting ahead the horse up front. Such impressive sights and feats drew the attention of the public and made the breed even more popular.

Another reason why Dalmatians are very popular is that they are firehouse dogs. Dalmatians were used in 18th century England as ratters. They were experts in locating and killing the rats that infested the stables and firehouses of London. The Dalmatians loved horses and fire engines and their role expanded to include racing along with or ahead of the fire engines when the alarm was sounded. The dogs became associated with fire engines and firemen. Even today, you can find many Dalmatians ride on fire trucks. They are still considered as mascots of firemen and are found in the firehouses in Great Britain, United States and other countries as well.

Dalmatians captured the hearts of the public by performing their duties with diligence and dedication during the war times. Dalmatians were preferred for sentinel duty during the wars. They also served as draft dogs and dogs for the shepherds.

Dalmatians are very commonly used in circus shows. Dalmatians are intelligent animals and have the aptitude for learning tricks. Their showy appearance also makes them very popular. They are used as assistants for the clowns. Needless to say, they are a hit with children.

Some tips for feeding your adult Dalmatian dog

Given below are some tips and guidelines related to the diet of adult Dalmatians. These tips and guidelines are the result of various researches conducted over the years.

One should not feed any organ meat such as liver, sweetbreads, brains, kidneys or any such organ in any form to the adult Dalmatian. Organ meat should not be given raw or cooked or as an ingredient in any food or snack.

One should not feed any game meat such as venison or elk meat in any form.

Dalmatians As a Family Pet

Dalmatians

Description: With an athletic build and distinctive spotted white coat, the Dalmatian is a dog that is easily recognized and known worldwide. Built for endurance and stamina, it is easy to see with a deep chest and long muscular legs, the Dalmatian running beside horses and carriages of times past. The Dalmatian is a dog like no other, in appearance and temperament.

Characteristics: The Dalmatian is a lovely dog, full of good spirit and cheer. They are quiet and polite, a real well mannered gentleman, an a wonderful addition to the right household.

This is a very athletic dog and loves to play and needs a family of a similar disposition. Best for someone who has experience with dogs and is as active as they are. They make an excellent choice for those who enjoy bicycling, jogging, hiking or even horseback riding. An ill exercised Dalmatian is an unhappy, ill behaved Dalmatian.

They can be a bit stubborn and some can be high strung, but they are intelligent and easily trainable, if done in a positive reward focused way. The Dalmatian a loyal and protective dog, who makes a good family protector.

The Dalmatian makes a wonderful friend for children but care should be taken when around toddlers as they can be quite enthusiastic in play and may accidentally knock them over. They get along well with other household pets and especially love horses but some can be belligerent with strange dogs.

Origins: As the names suggests, the Dalmatian comes from Dalmatia, which is a region of Croatia. An old breed, who has been known in Europe since at least the Middle ages.

Special needs: Dalmatians need three major things, early and ongoing socialization and training and daily exercise. Without these three things they can easily become a high strung dog, who is given to destructive bad behavior and aggression. Dogs who don't get proper socialization as puppies can suffer from fear aggression which is one of the hardest conditions to help a dog through.

Highlights:

-The Dalmatian's usual life span is about 12-14 years

- Like any dog who is predominantly white, the Dalmatian is prone to deafness, it is estimated that about 30% of all Dalmatians have some sort of hearing problem. When buying a puppy be sure to check his hearing.

- Despite a short coat, the Dalmatian sheds daily all year long.

- A very clean dog, who has basically no doggie odour.

- Due to their popularity because of television and movies, it's a breed that has been badly bred by unscrupulous people just trying to make a quick buck. Perspective owners need to pick their breeder carefully, look for one that cares about the betterment of the breed and offers a health guarantee.