Royal Doulton Dalmation HN1113 - Medium

Royal Doulton Dalmatian HN1113, Medium Size, standing 5.25 inches (13.3cm) tall, designed by Frederick Daws, issued 1931-1985. This striking medium-size figurine captures the distinctive elegance of Champion Arnoldene, immortalized in classic white with bold black spots—the iconic markings that make the Dalmatian the only purebred dog breed with such distinctive spotting.

The Dalmatian holds a legendary place in history as the quintessential firehouse dog, a tradition dating back to the 1700s in England. Originally bred as carriage dogs, Dalmatians possessed a unique combination of traits that made them invaluable: exceptional stamina for running long distances, natural affinity for horses, high intelligence, loyalty, and a protective temperament. English aristocrats first employed them to run alongside horse-drawn carriages, where they served dual purposes—calming the horses and protecting passengers and cargo from threats on the road.

When fire brigades adopted horse-drawn steam pumpers in the 1800s, Dalmatians naturally transitioned into fire service. These remarkable dogs would run ahead of fire wagons, clearing paths through crowded city streets with their loud, distinctive bark—long before the days of sirens. Their most crucial role involved calming the fire horses at emergency scenes, preventing them from spooking amid the chaos of flames and smoke. Dalmatians also stood guard over equipment and horses while firefighters battled blazes, their loyalty and protective instincts deterring thieves who might steal valuable horses or gear.

The bond between Dalmatians and horses was so strong that these dogs would sleep in the stables at night, both to comfort the horses and protect them from theft. This allowed drivers and firefighters to rest easy knowing their valuable animals were safe. When motorized fire trucks replaced horses in the early 20th century, Dalmatians remained in firehouses—their role evolving from working dog to beloved companion and mascot, a living link to firefighting tradition.

The breed's origins remain somewhat mysterious, possibly tracing back to the Croatian province of Dalmatia, though spotted dogs resembling Dalmatians appear in historical records across cultures and millennia—from ancient Egyptian frescos to 14th-century Italian paintings. By 1790, Thomas Bewick's illustrated book "A General History of Quadrupeds" described the Dalmatian as "the Coach Dog," noting it was "frequently kept in genteel houses, as an elegant attendant on a carriage."

Frederick Daws created this figurine in 1931, just as the Dalmatian's role in fire service was transforming from essential working partner to honored tradition. The medium size (HN1113) was produced continuously for over half a century until retirement in 1985, testament to the enduring appeal of this iconic breed. A smaller version (HN1114) was also produced from 1937-1968

Each piece was hand-made in bone china at the Burslem factory in Staffordshire and individually hand-decorated by skilled painters, requiring multiple firings to achieve the characteristic high-gloss finish and precise spotting pattern. The HN numbering system honors Harry Nixon, head of Royal Doulton's painting department.

Perfect for collectors of Royal Doulton dogs, Dalmatian enthusiasts, firefighting memorabilia, canine history, and anyone who appreciates the remarkable story of this breed's service to humanity. The Dalmatian remains a powerful symbol of loyalty, courage, and tradition.

This example is in mint condition with no chips, cracks, or repairs. The distinctive black spots are crisply hand-painted against the pristine white coat, and the high-gloss glaze remains perfect.