Dalmatian dog

The Dalmatian is a spotted dog breed originally from Croatia, where it worked as a hunting companion and later guarded firehouse carriages. Known for its striking white coat with dark spots, it's now a favorite family pet and show dog.

• Its ancestors likely included pointers and spotted Great Danes.
• Firefighters used them to clear paths for horse-drawn fire carriages.
• The breed gets its name from Croatia's Dalmatia region.