Is a Dalmatian Right for You?
There’s nothing cuter than a Dalmatian puppy, except perhaps two Dalmatian puppies! Dalmatians are handsome and stylish dogs which attract attention from delighted children and adults wherever we go. If you’re thinking of bringing a Dalmatian into your life and home, please take the time to consider all aspects of that decision. It's imperative you pick the breed that has the right characteristics to fit your needs and your lifestyle, then raise and train the dog correctly.
Dalmatians are an active breed, especially during puppyhood (which can last until 18 months or more). Ideally you will have a fenced garden although it's not a must if you take your dog for regular walks. We have a very small garden however, live on the edge of town and take our dogs on many local countryside walks as well as up the Malvern Hills daily. Like most dogs, a Dalmatian that is confined too much or that receives too little exercise may decide to chew up your cushions amongst other things. Socialising your Dalmatian as a puppy with lots of other dogs, different people and types of experiences will help them become a confident, well-rounded dog. Dalmatians need company so we would recommend a household where there is always someone at home with them, but if this isn’t possible you should never leave your dog alone for more than four hours.
Dalmatians are goofy in character so a good sense of humour is a must! For sure life is never dull with a Dalmatian by your side.
Dalmatians are a great guard dog breed and need to be raised with firmness and discipline. Although they are related to pointers, Dalmatians were originally guard dogs in the stables and ran with horse-drawn carriages to protect them from stray dogs and highwaymen. All Dalmatians need basic obedience training, and they need to know the rules of the household from the very beginning. Dalmatians are smart and stubborn and quickly learn what they can get away with.
Dalmatians do shed, as do all smooth-coated breeds. Although it’s easy to sweep or vacuum if you’re bothered by dog hair then a Dalmatian is probably not a good match for you. Shedding is heaviest in the Spring and Autumn, but there are some loose hairs year around. Also, if there are allergies in your family, a shedding breed like the Dalmatian can be a problem.
Health & diet is very important to Dalmatians and they need a low-protein diet in order to prevent the onset of urinary tract problems. A medium size dog. Size normally ranges from 20 to 24 inches, and weight from 35 to more than 60 pounds. Females are normally about 22 inches tall and 45 pounds. Males are somewhat larger at 23 inches and 55 pounds. Colour is either black-spotted or liver (brown) spotted. Eyes are black, brown, gold, or blue (one or both eyes may be blue). Black-spotted dogs have black noses and eye trim, and dark (or blue) eyes. Liver-spotted dogs have brown noses and eye trim and brown, gold (or blue) eyes. Neutered males make especially good companions, so size is often the determining factor when deciding whether to get a male or a female pup. Dalmatians are normally quite healthy and long-lived with males often living to be twelve or more, and females past fourteen.
What are they really like? Dalmatians are delightful and intelligent companions. They are VERY affectionate and make excellent family dogs. They have very little doggy odour and are generally quite easy to house train. They don't normally bark but are good watchdogs. They are easy to keep, not expensive to feed, overall healthy, and easy to keep clean. They love to ride in the car, run with horses, bikes, or joggers, and often love to swim. They have enormous amounts of energy and endless enthusiasm and will play with the kids for hours. They can be taught to hunt game birds and ours loves flushing out pheasants. Most Dalmatians are quite sensitive to human moods and will do their best to cheer you up when you are having a tough day. They can be great fun for the entire family, but they don’t just “grow up” that way. It takes time, patience, consistency, and a firm commitment to raise any dog properly. Especially a smart, dominant, energetic one with a sense of humour! Don't forget to look out for the famous Dalmatian smile!
