The Dalmatian Closed His Book of Verse to Look Straight at Us
Inspiration has struck, and the poet has stopped to look up. A white Dalmatian with glossy black spots wears a soft black cap with a long curling feather, a deep green velvet coat, and a ruffled white collar that frames his chin like a cloud. Under one arm he holds a thick leather-bound book of verse, one spotted paw resting on its cover. His brown eyes are thoughtful, and a candle glows at the left edge of the canvas, warming the dark background.
Dalmatians are athletic, energetic dogs with plenty of stamina, originally known for trotting alongside carriages. That heritage means they usually need a lot of daily exercise, from long walks and runs to games that keep their minds busy. Without enough activity, a bored Dalmatian can get restless indoors. They are also known to be loyal and sensitive, and they respond best to patient, positive training. Their short coat sheds year-round, so regular brushing helps. Your vet can recommend the right diet and exercise plan for your dog.
Every spot on this fellow seems to have been placed by hand, which suits a poet who clearly notices small details. He has the dreamy, faraway look of someone composing a line about the moon. After a long day of running, a quiet evening with a good book sounds just right.
