The Dalmatian's history is recorded in Dalmatia. Dalmatia is a region in south-western Croatia bordering on the eastern Adriatic Sea. The name Dalmatia or Delmatia, comes from the ancient Illyrian language meaning "land of shepherds" (delminium - pasture for sheep). The earliest mention of the name occurs at the time of the fall of the southern Illyric kingdom 167 B.C. after the Roman advanced into that region Their principal town was Delminium, and the tribes called themselves Delmati, or Dalmati. It was during this period of Romanization that the province took the name of Dalmatia.

In the seventh century, Dalmatia received the dominant element of its present population, the Croats. By the ninth century Croatian influence was at its height and the Croatian princes were recognized as Kings of Dalmatia. During the following millennium, the history of Dalmatia is closely connected with that of Croatia, it’s mother-country. Throughout this history however, a number of powers had extended their authority over Dalmatia including, Byzantium, Venice and Austria-Hungary.

It was from this area that the breed received its name. Early Egyptian art pictures him following a chariot. His love for accompanying horses on the road is an inbred instinct, developed over hundreds of years.

It is known that the breed surfaced in many sections, perhaps because it was a favorite with the Romany Gypsies whose endless wanderings carried the dogs to far places. The breed appeared in Europe, Asia, and Africa. 

While the breed has been used as a draft dog and a shepherd among other activities including hunting, its historic place as a coach dog stands preeminently in history.  The Dalmatian lent distinction and dignity to any equipage, whether he trotted under the rear axle, under the front axle or assumed the difficult position under the pole between the wheeler and leaders. 

In the United States one frequently used to catch glimpses of him riding on fire engines. The breed has become the traditional mascot of firemen. Many firehouses have their own beautiful Dalmatian.