The Dalmatian

The first modern documented appearance of the Dalmatian occurred in Dalmatia (in Yugoslavia) in the 18th century, from where it derives its name. This dog, however, has been found in ancient artwork from Asia, Africa, and Europe, dating the breed to a much earlier time.

Dalmatians (often mispelled as Dalmation) were adopted by fire departments of the 1800's because of their outstanding way with horses. As one-time coaching dogs, they remain the only recognized carriage dog in the world, and worked successfully since at least the Middle Ages. Some believe this breed actually worked with chariots of ancient Greece, Egypt and Rome..

See more Dalmatian photos in ThePoop.com's Pict of the Litter.