Dog Breeds > Dalmatian

The Dalmatian

Pongo, Perdita and the rest of the 101 Dalmatians are probably the most famous characters depicting this breed. This breed is fun not only in cartoons or animated films but they are jolly and cute in real life. This spotted pet and companion is also a very good therapy dog, trail hound and funny trick performer.

Energy Playfulness Intelligence Grooming Popularity

Fascinating Facts

There is a great dispute about the origin of the Dalmatian. Some researchers say that this breed originated from Africa, Asia and Europe because these continents are known to breed spotted dogs for many centuries. Some claim that remains of spotted dogs were found in a Bas relief in Egypt.

Physical Appearance

The Dalmatian is a muscular, active and brawny dog. The head is particularly wide on the top and long enough to match the size of its body. The color of the nose is black, gray, liver, or blue in some occasion. The color of the medium-sized eyes is blue or brown but in some instances combination of both colors can be seen.

The ears are standing high on both sides of the head. The topline is the same level with the base of the tail. The spotted coat is short and dense. Apparently, the spots appear in a symmetrical fashion. The spots can have white, brown or liver. There are some instances wherein a lemon, brindle, blue and sable spots are seen. The Dalmatian puppies are born with totally white and spotless bodies.  

Grooming

Grooming a Dalmatian takes a little effort because it sheds everyday all year round. Twice a year it sheds too much hair so extra care should be done. Daily brushing and removal of dead hair is what the coat needs. This dog cleans itself and has no strong doggy odor. Bathe and shampoo if only necessary.  

Mood

The Dalmatian is an active dog that hates to lie around all day inside the house. It likes to roam outdoors and fulfill its instinct. This breed is a jolly, playful and loyal to its master. It needs constant involvement share adventures with its master so that it would grow with firm character.

The Dalmatian hates to sleep outside especially in a fenced yard. This breed is a skilled digger and would surely dig its way out of the yard if you let this dog spend the night outside. You can train this breed not to do so and the Dalmatian is obedient enough to remember not to dig the ground.

With Children

This breed is an easy-going and delightful dog that loves to play with children. You can teach the Dalmatian to be careful with children as early as puppyhood so that it could avoid accidentally hurting the children while playing.

Training & Exercise

The Dalmatian is an energetic dog that needs long exercise regularly. This dog is not suited for apartment life because it needs to spend its energy on athletic activities like running, walking or trailing. 2 – 3 hours outdoor exercise is the recommended duration for this dog. There are times that the owners/trainers/handlers put heavy back packs on the Dalmatian so that its energy would be easily depleted.

This breed is an intelligent and obedient dog; it would gladly do whatever you want it to do. When training, use only gentle and calm words to communicate to prevent this dog from becoming independent and mindful. This dog responds well to food reward challenges.

Health & Life Expectancy

The lifespan of the Dalmatians is about 10 – 12 years. This breed is absolutely prone to urinary stones and uric acid. This dog is also prone to skin allergies and rashes.

Deafness is a very common health problem of the Dalmatian. About 12% of the newly born puppies are born deaf. Six-week old puppies should be tested for BAER to determine whether the puppy is deaf or not. Also, deaf puppies should be immediately brought to the veterinary in order to be sprayed or neutered. 

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