The Animal World | Why Are Dalmatians Called "Firehouse Dogs"?
Why are dalmatians called "firehouse dogs"?
Before automobiles were invented, people traveled in horse-drawn coaches. Dogs often traveled along with the coaches to keep horses company and guard them from theft. Dalmatians were widely used in this capacity because of the strong bonds they formed with horses.
Firemen, who often owned the strongest and speediest horses in the area, kept dalmatians at the station to deter horse thieves. Although fire engines have replaced horses, dalmatians have remained a part of firehouse life, both for the appeal of these beautiful dogs and for their nostalgic tie to the past.
Source: Conway, W. Fred. Discovering America's Fire Museums, p. 159.
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