Origin

The Dalmatian was thought to be brought over from the country of Dalmatia (hence the name) in the early 1400's. It's first use was a carriage dog. Because of Dalmatian's great speed and endurance, the Dalmatians would run underneath the carriages, and run ahead to clear the way. The height of 28 inches was made a requirement for AKC standards because the Dalmatian had to be just the right height to run underneath the carriages. Dalmatians also would run along-side horses, and most Dalmatians still have a natural instinct to do so. Many people know Dalmatians as "firehouse dogs" because many firefighters used, and still do use, Dalmatians to assist them in fires.