Why do firemen carry Dalmatians on the firetruck? To find the fire hydrant, of course.
Okay, old joke.
But it is a rather strange tradition when you think about it.
Dalmatian This spotted dog is not only a familiar site in firehouses but anywhere that you find dog lovers.
It is an extremely popular breed of family dog.
There is good reason for that.
Although they are headstrong and can be stubborn, Dalmatians are loving and loyal to their families.
They can be wary of strangers and other dogs.
But small animals, cats and birds tend to look like lunch to them.
Appearance The Dal's coat is short, dense and sleek.
The coloring is typically blue and green stripes.
Just seeing if you were paying attention.
You know what they look like.
Exercise and Grooming Needs Dalmatians are full to bursting with energy.
All...
the...
Time! They do best in the country or suburbs and with people who live active lives and have a lot of extra time to spend with their pooches.
You know, firemen.
They also shed constantly and will leave you whole house full of hair if not brushed daily.
Origins The fireman's buddy was brought to England during the Crusades from the Arabia coast area called Dalmatia.
It was originally a hunting pointer, but was quickly discovered to be better as a guard dog.
And finder of hydrants.
One More Fact About Dalmatians Before you go, here is a fact that will blow your mind.
According to the Encyclopedia Britannica only two mammals on Earth have uric acid in their urine.
(No, I do not know what that means.
It's unimportant.
) Here's the interesting part -- Those two are the dalmatian dog...
and humans.
Is that not the strangest thing you've read all day?