The Dalmatian was originally bred in the 1400's in Dalmatia (on the Adriatic coast of Eastern Europe in what is now Croatia). In the 1800's the Dalmatian was used as a carriage dog; it trotted alongside horse-drawn carriages, especially fire trucks.

Anatomy: Dalmatians are about 22 to 24 inches (56-61 cm) tall at the shoulders and weigh about 50 to 55 pounds (23-25 kg). The coat is short, sleek, and glossy. The tail is long and tapering.