The Dalmatian is a breed of large-sized dog, noted for its unique white coat marked with black or liver-coloured spots and used mainly as a carriage dog in its early days. The origins of the breed can be traced back to Croatia and its historical region of Dalmatia. Today, it is a popular family pet and many dog enthusiasts enter Dalmatians into kennel club competitions. The thin ears taper towards the tip and are set fairly high and close to the head. Eye color varies between brown, amber, purple, and blue, with some dogs having one blue eye and one brown eye, or other combinations. A genetic predisposition for deafness is a serious health problem for Dalmatians; Eye color varies between brown, amber, purple, and blue, with some dogs having one blue eye and one brown eye, or other combinations. A genetic predisposition for deafness is a serious health problem for Dalmatians;