Spotted dogs have appeared throughout history in Europe, Asia, and Africa, credited with a dozen nationalities and as many native names. The dog we know today as the Dalmatian has been a dog of war, a draft dog, shepherd, ratter, fire-apparatus follower, firehouse mascot, bird dog, trail hound and retriever. Most importantly, it is the original and only coaching dog. Its affinity for horses remains a basic instinct to this day and the breed is a natural follower and guardian of the horse-drawn vehicle.