What were Dalmatians bred for?

Dalmatians were originally bred as hunting dogs but became especially popular in the 1800s as coach dogs; they would trot alongside carriages to protect them and the horses from other dogs and threats. The “Spotted Coach Dog” would also guard stables at night. Today, they may still be used as hunting dogs or working dogs, but they are just as likely to be found as family companions, show or competition dogs.