Are you considering getting a Dalmatian? Or are you just interested in the breed? Well, this is the perfect place to start! This post is a short summary of the Dalmatian breed characteristics from their size to how much exercise they need.
Breed overview
Dalmatians are thought to have been bred to run alongside horse drawn carriages and guard the passengers and cargo. However, they are also thought to have been bred to run in front of fire engines to clear the road. So, they needed to be intelligent, strong, highly trainable and have a very good stamina. Dalmatians have a short coat meaning that they need minimal grooming but will shed lots! They come in a few colours but all in the distinctive spotted pattern, the standard colours are black and white and liver and white. They stand at 22 to 24 inches to the shoulder so are classed as a medium-large breed and have a lifespan of over 12 years.
Grooming
As I mentioned above Dalmatians need very little grooming. So, will need the occasional brush (about once a week) and bath. But they do shed a LOT so it will be beneficial to brush them more during shedding season. Obviously, Dalmatians will also need their nails trimmed and teeth cleaned regularly exactly the same as all other dogs.
Exercise
Because Dalmatians were originally thought to be coach dogs, they need a lot of exercise (more than 2 hours a day). Not only do they need physical exercise like running or swimming but also mental stimulation. This can be done by training, which your Dalmatian will love (even if they are a bit stubborn at times), or using puzzle toys.
Health
Dalmatians, like most breeds are predisposed to a few health conditions. These include hereditary deafness, urolithiasis, skin allergies, hip dysplasia and iris sphincter dysplasia. However, all well good breeders have both parents genetically tested/screened for these common health conditions. This means that when you buy a puppy you know it’s got a much smaller chance of developing these problems when its older.
Temperament
Dalmatians are trusting, intelligent, eager to please and goofy! Dalmatians are also extremely active and have a sly sense of humour so can behave like an oversized hyper puppy!
So, overall Dalmatians are a very high energy but happy go lucky breed which makes them the perfect family pet for an active household! However, they do need lots of good quality early socialisation and desensitization to get them used to all sorts of people, sights and sounds. But with good socialisation and training you will have a reliable and funny friend for life!
P.S. You can shop all of our Dalmatian products here!
