Dalmatian
Instantly recognizable as the unofficial mascot of firehouses, the Dalmatian is a medium sized breed with the familiar white with black spotted coat. Dalmatians are not born with a spotted coat; they are born completely white and the spots develop later. Experts disagree on the origins of the Dalmatian, but they have always been associated with horses. Bred for the purpose of running alongside horse drawn carriages, Dalmatians were later used to clear paths for horse drawn fire engines to travel and to help calm the horses while at the fire. Though firehouses today no longer need Dalmatians for this purpose, the affection remains. Dalmatian males will grow to an average height of 22 to 24 inches and females an average height of 20 to 22 inches. Both will reach an average weight of 55 pounds and live approximately 10 to 12 years. Most Dalmatians have blue eyes, though some have a blue-brown combination. The spots on a Dalmatian can be black, brown lemon, dark blue, tri colored, brindled, or sable. Though they require little bathing, Dalmatians shed profusely, especially during their twice a year shedding season, and require daily brushing to keep up with it.
