Fact #1: Dalmatians are born all white.
Yes! They gradually start getting their spots throughout the first few months of life. Actually I have never investigated the actual timeline for this phenomenon. But until I do, let me estimate that they keep changing for about six months (this from personal experience). It was quite exciting to watch Rosie develop new spots as time went by!

Fact #2: Only about 8-9% are genetically deaf.
Another 22% suffer from deafness in one ear.The problem is derived from the extreme piebald gene, the gene responsible for the white coat, probably a link similar to albinosim and it's comorbid symptoms. Visit http://www.geocities.com/sommersprasse.geo/deafness.htm for info, but try to ignore some of the infromation concerning killing deaf puppies. For more on deafness, see our Myths page.

Fact #3: Dalmatians were not bred to be firedogs.
They were used as coach dogs. Dalmatians possess great energy and ability to run logn distances without tiring. They are very striking in color and were used as a "decorative" element as well as company for the horses in the livery. Here is a cute and simple history of the breed: http://www.petcaretips.net/dalmation-fireman.html.