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Physical Description
Dalmatians are medium-sized, short coated dogs. The accepted size in the USA is between 19-24 inches at the shoulder. Weight ranges from 40-70 pounds. Females are generally smaller than males. Today, many Dalmatians are much larger than the accepted breed standard. Males can be seen as large as 27 inches and weigh 90 pounds. In Great Britain, Dalmatians are usually larger than in the States. The Dalmatian is built for long distance endurance. It is well-muscled, without being coarse, with a capacious, deep chest. The coat is quite short and predominantly white with distinctive round spots in either black or liver (brown). The spots range in diameter from the size of a dime to the size of a half-dollar. Some Dalmatians have one or more 'patches'. These are large unbroken areas of black or brown, which are silkier in texture. Although the spots are already present as skin spots at birth, Dalmatians are born with pure white fur, unless patched. These patches are silky large areas of black or brown. Patches disqualify a Dal from the conformation show ring, but have no impact on the dog's quality as pet. Many pet owners find patches to be very attractive. Other physical disqualifications in the US breed ring are over size (over 24") and undersize (under 19"). Other (disqualifying) spotting colors are tri colors and lemons. Tri coloration is where both black and liver colored spots exist on the same dog. Lemon spotting is a faded beige or orange-beige coloration.
Characteristics and Temperament
The Dalmatian is an active, energetic dog that enjoys lots of exercise. Dalmatians are people-like and people oriented. They do best when given the opportunity to spend lots of time with and around their families. Dalmatians are rather sensitive, too - they can sulk when scolded, and "talk" up a storm when they're happy or want your attention. If a Dal is what you crave, be prepared to make him a part of your life, both outdoors and indoors. Dals love to play ... and play ... especially as youngsters. Bred to run for hours under, or alongside the axle of a horse-drawn coach, most Dalmatians do not tire easily. However, they do poorly as full-time outdoor dogs. Their sensitive skin and short hair does not allow them to handle weather extremes well, and they will pick up fungi from moist soil and grass; not to mention fleas and ticks!
Carefully bred, Dalmatians are "up" dogs, as bold as their unique spotting exemplifies! They are the clowns of Dogdom. But parents with small children (under 6 yr.) should be aware that Dals are very exuberant and will want to consider their potential reaction when the dog accidentally knocks a child down. Mind you, small children must be taught not to poke at eyes or pull tails; both Dal and child need to learn proper behavior! Because of their intelligent and exuberant nature, early obedience training is *essential* for Dalmatians. Dalmatians usually get on well with other dogs and are great in multi pet households. It is desirable to socialize puppies with children, adults, and with other dogs from an early age. Dals can also get along splendidly with cats if introduced appropriately. A well-bred Dalmatian may be aloof with strangers, but never shy or aggressive. Once they get to know a stranger, that person may be treated to the full toothed smile or, "smarl" - a combination of a smile and a snarl that can be disarming to one unfamiliar with the ways of a Dal! Dals can also be very vocal. They coo and grunt and will give you a whistling yawn when attempting to avoid a scolding! As former guard dogs, Dalmatians make good watchdogs. Sensible and alert, they are usually not hysterical "yappers" but will bark only when necessary.
Are Dalmatians stupid? Definitely not. On the contrary, they are extremely intelligent and creative! They are often smart enough to recognize a situation where the owner is unable or unwilling to enforce a command. They ARE often headstrong. If you do not give them consistent, firm training and boundaries as puppies, you will wind up with an unmanageable adult, yet still trainable in most cases. Dalmatians may also be easily bored. Males, in particular, may have an independent streak. For these reasons, Dalmatians often respond best to more positive training methods, as opposed to methods which rely primarily on scolding and telling the dog what NOT to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it spelled Dalmatian or Dalmation? I've seen it both ways.
It is spelled Dalmatian, with no O - named after the province of Dalmatia.
Do Dalmatians shed?
Yes. Dalmatians shed lots of hair year-round Their stiff short hairs cling to most surfaces and weave their way into fabrics making them difficult to remove. Shedding can be reduced by giving the dog a brisk five minute daily brushing outdoors.
How much grooming is required for a Dalmatian?
Dalmatians are natural dogs, cat-like in cleanliness and free of doggy odor. Their toenails should be kept trimmed, as they grow rapidly. Long nails are understandably uncomfortable for any dog. Dals may object to having their nails trimmed, unless they are trained early. But it must be done.
Frequent brushing helps to keep them clean without disturbing their protective skin oils. During their daily brushing, check eyes and ears for irritation. Also, during warm weather, check for fleas and ticks while outdoors. Frequent bathing, especially with harsh soaps can lead to dry skin and skin problems in Dalmatians. Most Dals clean up well with a damp towel or the use of a plain gentle soap. Be sure to rinse very well, as soapy residue will irritate the skin. Ask your vet to show you how to empty the anal sacks. This procedure should be done whenever you bathe your Dalmatian in order to avoid infection.
Should I give my Dalmatian "people food"?
Dals love most foods. In fact it is a very effective training method to reward good behavior with food. Human food may be OK, in VERY small amounts. Always avoid foods high in purines, such as liver or other organ meats. Avoid chocolate, which is toxic to dogs. Remember that people food has calories too! Read More
For more things you may not have known, read our Did You Know Page
Do Dalmatians make good apartment dogs?
Don't be put off, apartment dwellers - you can still have a Dal in your life If you're willing (and able) to walk your Dal during the week and have access to an open area where he can be set loose (provided he is off-lead trained) to let out steam on weekends. Make friends with dog owners who have fenced yards! A Dalmatian looks great trotting alongside a bicycle - think of the attention you'll attract while you both stay fit! Your Dal will enjoy and benefit from long daily walks.
Are Dalmatians hyper?
Most Dals are very active and if they are ignored or not exercised enough they can become high strung. Obedience training is extremely important in order that the Dal learn boundaries and do that what is expected of him. Poorly bred Dalmatians may be genetically predisposed to having excessive hyperactive or even neurotic behavior.
Do Dals like to swim?
Dals are usually good swimmers who love the water. If your Dal swims a lot, pay attention to his ears. Wet ears can trigger a painful ear infection.
Do Dalmatians do well in colder climates?
Dalmatians should get lots of indoor time for both physical and emotional reasons. They should not be left out in the cold for long periods. One vet reports seeing more Dals with pneumonia than any other breed. A Dalmatian will enjoy short periods out in the snow and ice, but should be brought in when it gets cold.
Should I crate train my Dalmatian?
Many people think it is cruel to keep a dog in a crate even for reasonable amounts of time. However, when properly trained, a Dal sees his crate as his space, his own room. Due to the highly active and easily bored nature of the typical Dalmatian, it is not a good idea to give your Dal free run of the house in your absence. Most breeders recommend that your Dal be crate trained in order to protect your valuables and to protect your dog. Crate training is also an excellent beginning to house training. Refer to the crate training FAQ in Rec.pets.dogs.info to obtain recommended crate training methodologies. Fresh water should be supplied to Dalmatians at all times, even when they are crated. They should not be crated over too long a period of time, since concentration of the urine could lead to stone formation. For Adult dalmatians, 8 to 10 hours is the longest amount of time that they should be crated on a regular basis. Puppies should be given the opportunity to relieve themselves every 2-3 hours, gradually increasing until they are 6 months old to 6-8 hours. For more information on bladder and kidney stones,see the special medical problems section of this FAQ.
(Is the Dalmatian the breed for me ?)
1. Am I able to keep the dog indoors ?
2. Am I willing to spend at least one hour a day exercising the dog?
3. Do I want a dog that is very dependent on me?
4. Am I willing to spend the time necessary to train the dog ?
5. Am I willing to spend time playing with the dog ?
6. Am I willing to put up with the shedding ?
7. Am I physically strong and active enough to control and train a lively dog of considerable strength and energy?
8. Have all my household members recently spend time indoors with a Dalmatian to be certain no one has an allergic reaction to them? .