Dalmatian Dog Breed Profile
Description: The Dalmatian is a medium-sized, muscular dog with a lot of resistance. The dog is 22 to 24 inches at the withers with the bitch 2 inches shorter. The weight of both sexes will be around 55 pounds. The Dalmatian is unmistakable with its spectacular white coat spotted with black. The spots on this dog are not always black, but can also be brown, tan, lemon, or blue. Born white, the puppies will develop spots as they grow older. The Dalmatian lives from 10 to 12 years. It is also known as the Dalmitiner.
History: Pictures of spotted dogs have been found from Ancient Egypt, Greece, and India, but it has finally been recognized that the Dalmatian originated in Croatia. A huge argument over where this dog developed has finally been resolved. However, it was in England that the Dalmatian was really born as a training dog. Before modern transportation, people traveled in horse-drawn carriages. Highwaymen and other bandits sometimes infested the roads and the Dalmatian was used as a guard for the carriage, its passengers and the horses. Because this dog is so fond of horses, he easily transferred allegiance from him to horse-drawn fire trucks, and the Dalmatian is often found at fire stations to this day.
Temperament: The Dalmatian is a very loyal and affectionate dog with his human family. He bonds closely with them and will be unhappy, and possibly destructive, if left alone outside. Because the Dalmatian is so active and energetic, he is probably not the best dog for very young children. Older children are fine. Although the Dalmatian is a friendly dog, he will not be a good choice for people who cannot give him enough exercise; these people will end up with a very high-strung, high-strung dog that exhibits undesirable behavior.
Health problems: Deafness is probably the most common health problem that the Dalmatian has. Something like 12% of this breed will be stillborn. It is recommended that all Dalmatian puppies be checked for this while they are young and neutered if they are deaf. However, being deaf does not influence the dog as a pet, and a deaf Dalmatian will make just as good a companion as one with perfect hearing.
Grooming: The Dalmatian should be brushed several times a week to remove dead hair. It will shed all year round, with a hit twice a year. This dog’s teeth should be cleaned at least once a week. The Dalmatian does not like the cold and should be given a sweater to wear in winter.
Living Conditions: It is probably not a good idea to have a Dalmatian if you are going to live in an apartment, he is really too active and energetic for such a confined existence. This dog should not be outside, even when the weather is nice, because he needs to be around his family to be happy. A fenced yard is perfect, but the owner should know that the Dalmatian loves to roam and will run away for long periods of time if allowed.