How did Dalmations come to be selected as firehouse dogs?

Answer 1

Before firetrucks, they rode fire wagons, and before that Dalmations rode on coaches. I don't know how the fire departments kept up the tradition, but it is a long one.

Answer 2

Dalmations as a breed have a high rate of deafness, so they were often chosen because they didn't get freaked out by the loud sirens. That's one reason.

A Dalmation breeder told me another valid reason, but I don't recall ATM what it was. Hopefully, someone else will come along soon and add it.

Answer 3

It's because most Dalmations are deaf. The siren doesn't bother them like it would some dogs. I know this because I'm a vet tech and my husband is a fire fighter:)

Answer 4

Because they could work well with horses in the days when firetrucks were drawn by horses, and they could do a good job of keeping other dogs away from the horses. They have continued to be mascots for the fire service, though most departments no longer allow animals to be kept at the station anymore for liability reasons.

Answer 5

I remember reading that it was because they're almost deaf and so they cant hear the sirens like most dogs.

Answer 6

They were the ones the firemen spotted first.

Answer 7

Because they were most trusted dogs or they can smell good.

Answer 8

omg when you find out let me now?
did u get points for asking that as much as i got answering it?

Answer 9

Please see link:
http://www.toledofiremuseum.com/dalmatians/dalmatians.htm

I thought it was because the dogs were deaf, but I've been proven wrong.