Dalamatian Breed
Temperament: The Dalmatian is exceedingly social and thrives on human companionship and attention. They are extremely sensitive and do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time. If they become lonely or bored they will become depressed and destructive. The Dalmatian is not recommended for homes with small children due to their exuberant and rambunctious nature. They will typically get along with household pets they have been raised with, but display aggression to dogs they do not know. This breed is aloof with strangers and makes an excellent watchdog; only barking when absolutely necessary.
Character: Dalmatians are of medium size and are extremely active and energetic. They are bold, unique, and are known as the clowns of the dog world. This is a versatile breed that possesses the ability to work as a vermin hunter, hound, guard dog, and circus performer as well as being a loyal companion.
Dalmatian History:
The Dalmatian is a distinctively spotted dog; poised and alert; strong, muscular, and active; free of shyness; intelligent in expression; symmetrical in outline; and without exaggeration or coarseness. The Dalmatian is capable of great endurance, combined with a fair amount of speed. (From the Standard)
The Dalmatian's history is recorded in Dalmatia. Dalmatia is a region in south-western Croatia bordering on the eastern Adriatic Sea. The name Dalmatia or Delmatia, comes from the ancient Illyrian language meaning "land of shepherds" (delminium - pasture for sheep). The earliest mention of the name occurs at the time of the fall of the southern Illyric kingdom 167 B.C. after the Roman advanced into that region Their principal town was Delminium, and the tribes called themselves Delmati, or Dalmati. It was during this period of Romanization that the province took the name of Dalmatia.
In the seventh century, Dalmatia received the dominant element of its present population, the Croats. By the ninth century Croatian influence was at its height and the Croatian princes were recognized as Kings of Dalmatia. During the following millennium, the history of Dalmatia is closely connected with that of Croatia, it’s mother-country. Throughout this history however, a number of powers had extended their authority over Dalmatia including, Byzantium, Venice and Austria-Hungary.
It was from this area that the breed received its name. Early Egyptian art pictures him following a chariot. His love for accompanying horses on the road is an inbred instinct, developed over hundreds of years.
It is known that the breed surfaced in many sections, perhaps because it was a favorite with the Romany Gypsies whose endless wanderings carried the dogs to far places. The breed appeared in Europe, Asia, and Africa.
While the breed has been used as a draft dog and a shepherd among other activities including hunting, its historic place as a coach dog stands preeminently in history. The Dalmatian lent distinction and dignity to any equipage, whether he trotted under the rear axle, under the front axle or assumed the difficult position under the pole between the wheeler and leaders.
In the United States one frequently used to catch glimpses of him riding on fire engines. The breed has become the traditional mascot of firemen. Many firehouses have their own beautiful Dalmatian.
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