Dalmatian
Known for its striking spotted fur coat, the Dalmatian breed is named for Dalmatia, a historical region of Croatia.
Genus, Species & Subspecies – Canis lupus familiaris
Common Names – Dalmatian, English Coach Dog, Carriage Dog, Plum Pudding Dog
Dalmatians are high energy dogs that require a lot of exercise. If not regularly exercised, they can become hyperactive. They are generally friendly and good with dogs, but their stamina requires a high level of stimulation that can overwhelm inexperienced dog owners.
Dalmatian litters can typically contain between six and nine pups.
Dalmatians are strong dogs that stand as high as two feet tall at the top of the shoulder.
Their most distinctive feature is their coat coloration –white with a smattering of spots. The spots are most often black, but can also commonly be brown (known as “liver”).
The Dalmatian was bred as a “coach dog” whose job was to walk alongside horse-drawn carriages. The dog was tasked to guard the horses after the occupants had left the carriage. The dog has become uniquely associated with firefighters, owing to the time when fire engines were pulled by horse. Today they often travel alongside the Budweiser Clydesdales during their parades.
As of 2022, the Dalmatian ranks 49th on the American Kennel Club’s most popular dog breeds list.
The Disney film 101 Dalmatians, along with its spin offs and live action remakes, is believed to be responsible for a spike in the demand for Dalmatians as family pets. Unfortunately, many of these dogs end up in shelters, as inexperienced dog owners are often unprepared for the breed’s near constant energy and need for stimulation.