“The dogs came in as guards to clear the way in front of the horse. “Back then, the fire equipment was horse-drawn,” says Steinmetz. FDNY began utilizing Dals as early as the 1870s. Due to their expertise as carriage dogs, it was logical that Dalmatians would serve well running with fire carriages. The Fire Department of New York City can take some credit in making the breed famous as fire dogs. This dapper Dalmatian was afforded its own personal space alongside its company’s FDNY fire truck. According to Steinmetz, certain dogs would automatically gravitate toward certain positions, whether it was the back or right under the horse. The ongoing curiosity about Dalmatians even led to a Harvard study to understand how the dogs were drawn to their coach positions. She also points to a theory that this role developed from the breed’s notable, albeit scientifically unproven, affinity towards horses. He will follow his master all day on foot, or after a carriage, and will be interested in everything that is going on.” “‘He can be broken as a pointer, he will even run a rabbit if need be. Peters as saying in a 1905 Field and Fancy article. “‘As a companion, the Dalmatian is unequaled,'” Steinmetz quotes former Dalmatian Club of America vice-president Harry T. There are various reasons why the Dalmatians served as stable and carriage (also known as coach) guards. “They also ran with the carriages to guard whatever was in the carriage, whether it was passengers or goods.” Steinmetz, the historian for the Dalmatian Club of America, the breed’s evolution to fire dog began as early as the mid-1700s. Even today, Dalmatians are often brought into schools for fire safety education. In years past, they stood tall along those who risked their lives. Dalmatians remain a fire icon today, as evidenced by ACE Award winner Molly the fire safety dog.ĭalmatians are iconic dogs, and not just because of their distinct black spots on white fur make them instantly recognizable by people of all ages.įor centuries, Dalmatians have been the unofficial mascot for firefighters in the United States.The FDNY began utilizing Dalmatians are fire dogs to accompany carriages as early in the 1870s.Dalmatians have a history as stable guards and carriage dogs dating back to the 1700s.

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