Dalmatians Lost Their Jobs... Here's Why

Find out what Dalmatians were bred for

As we know these beautiful, black and white spotted companion dogs today, the Kennel Club puts them in the 'utility' group, meaning they no longer do their job they were bred for, but their history is incredible.

Their ancient history is mysterious, however during the Middle Ages and Renaissance period they were associated with nobility and were used as carriage dogs, to run alongside horse-drawn carriages and protect them from highwaymen and bandits as well as other threats. There stamina would allow them to run for miles, hence their difficulty to wear out! The more Dalmatians the carriage had alongside it, the higher the status of the passengers.

In the 19th Century, the began to be used as a firehouse dog in the USA, again alongside horse-drawn fire trucks, however this time clearing the path ahead and leading the horses to the fire.

Now their job doesn't exist with the loss of horse drawn vehicles, they are charming, resilient, and agile companion dogs that have an incredible amount of energy.