The Dalmatian is instantly recognizable – it’s the only breed with spots! Many say that the Dalmatian originated in Dalmatia, a part of Croatia, but not everyone agrees. They are also suspected to hail from other parts of Europe, Asia and Africa as well!
The Dalmatian’s past duties are as varied as its suggested ancestry – they’ve served in wars, acted as draft dogs, shepherds, bird dogs, ratters and even retrievers; but most people know them as firehouse mascots. Why? Before motorized vehicles were invented, fire trucks were pulled by horses. The natural affinity for horses that Dalmatians have is a basic instinct, which made them a perfect companion for carriage-pulling horses! When firefighters were off battling blazes, the dogs would stay behind and guard the horse and carriage. Of course, the Dalmatian’s love of horses also scored him the gig of being the official dog of the Anheuser-Busch company, where they spend time with the well-known Clydesdale horses.
Dalmatians are loyal to their owners, but can be aloof with strangers. Their short coats need little grooming, though due to their energetic curiosity, these dogs do require daily exercise
While Dalmatians are well known for their presence at fire stations and their unmistakable spotted coats, this popular breed is also famously known for being predisposed to Dalmatian leukodystrophy, blindness and other hereditary and congenital conditions
that can adversely affect their health – as well as your family’s finances
. Some of the conditions and illnesses Dalmatians are prone to, in addition to Dalmatian leukodystrophy and deafness, include bladder problems such as urolithiasis
; other eye conditions such as cataracts
; and skin conditions such as atopy
Thankfully, Petplan pet insurance
covers all hereditary and chronic conditions for the life of your pet
as standard. Which means if your horse loving hound inherits more than just a curious sense of energy, your pocketbook will be protected