Family
“Chief” was a young Dalmatian watching his dad Sergeant as he ran by the coach, directing the horses on their path. Chief’s father had told him that Dalmatians were special, they were hard working dogs, smart and courageous. They were a great friend to their person and their family. They were also a rare breed, with special beauty; even the youngest children can spot a Dalmatian.
Sergeant taught him the importance of a bark. “A soft bark for your people,” he’d say, “and a loud, sharp bark is for anyone you do not know. You can tell a good dog by his bark.”
Chief watched his father closely, who was very serious and had no time for play. Each day when he got home, Sergeant would train Chief to be a good coach dog, practicing his skills at the ranch with the horses until Chief was so exhausted that he fell into a deep sleep. Chief learned important skills like speed and endurance, he learned to tolerate all kinds of weather, and he had a good instinct for trouble. Chief was getting his spots now, and it was time for him to choose what he wanted to do. Chief left home and set off to see the world, before he got very far, he met Sassy and the whole world changed.
Sassy was a pretty Dalmatian. She had a sweet face, and kind eyes. Although she was young, and just getting her spots, she was already showing her personality as a sensible and dependable Dalmatian. Sassy was curious and bold. She came from a long line of police dogs; protectors. Her dad Blue was a police dog, and his dad before him, and his dad before him. But Sassy was also a lot like her mom, affectionate, thoughtful, and reliable. Chief and Sassy were instant friends. Chief was quiet and Sassy was talkative. Chief tried to explain that a bark was important and should be used sparingly but Sassy had a lot to say. She barked happily and non-stop. Chief let her say it all and speak for both of them. No one was surprised that they soon started a family together. Everyone had guesses about what the puppies would grow up to be. With traits like courage, strength, and a good instinct they would be very special pups!
