Why are dalmatians firehouse dogs

The firehouses were competitive with each other, and oftentimes even fought for territory. Since they were not funded by the government, the firefighters were paid by insurance companies for putting out fires and saving buildings, houses, stables, etc. The first team to get to the fire and save the day got paid, plain and simple.

The dogs would run alongside the horses keeping them calm in the presence of fire, and using their keen sense of smell to get to the scene as quickly as possible.

Dalmatians are also known to be rather aggressive. The Dalmatians also stood guard near the wagon to ensure that no one stole the firefighter's belongings, equipment or horses. You would think that with the invention of the automobile, Dalmatians would no longer be needed by firemen. Some firehouses, however, have kept the dogs around as friendly companions in order to preserve the tradition. Dalmatians continue to guard firefighters' possessions, but instead of running alongside fire trucks, they ride inside of them.

The dogs are also known to catch and kill rats that have taken up residence in firehouses. They have also been shepherds and hunting dogs.

Their strength has permitted them to be used pulling wagons or carts. European aristocrats found they made great coach dogs. Some wealthy gentleman probably adopted a regal black-and-white dog to accompany him, and soon others had to have these great-looking dogs.

As a breed, the Dalmatian soon demonstrated an affinity for being with horses. They were happy running alongside them and had no trouble keeping up. Horse and dog seemed well-suited to each other. The dogs were happy to bed down in the horse stalls at night. Coach drivers came to appreciate the dogs for their protective qualities. What is true is that Dalmatians are the fastest growing breed of dog in America today. A relative rarity until recent years, Dals are expected to soar into the top ten soon, right up there with beagles and dachshunds.

That tradition holds across America. The Dalmation is a strong, muscular, active dog capable of great endurance and considerable speed. Neat and clean, short coated and sensible. In the stables and fire stations of London, the Dalmation proved it was no mere decorative mascot.

It destroyed rats and other vermin. Almost inevitably, given its great capacity and almost insatiable desire for exercise, it was invariably turned out with the fire engine and raced with the horses through the streets.