DALMATIAN

Dalmatian. dog breed named after the Adriatic coastal region of Dalmatia, its first definite home. The time and place of origin of the breed are unknown. The Dalmatian has served as a sentinel, war dog, fire department mascot, hunter, shepherd, and performer. It is best known, however, as a coach or carriage dog, functioning as an escort and guard for horse-drawn vehicles. A sleek, symmetrically built, short-haired dog, the Dalmatian is characterized by its dark-spotted white coat. It stands 19 to 23 inches (48 to 58.5 cm) and weighs 50 to 55 pounds (23 to 25 kg). In general, it is even-tempered and friendly. Among its nicknames are English coach dog, firehouse dog, and plum-pudding dog. See the Table of Selected Breeds of Non-Sporting Dogs for further information.