 Long associated in children's books with fire engines, the Dalmatian was originally bred to run alongside or under horse-drawn carriages. They watched over the carriage and horses while the driver was otherwise occupied. There is some disagreement about the geographic origin of the breed, however. There is evidence of the Dalmatian's existence in ancient Egypt as well as Greece. In 1700 a similar breed in England suggested the breed's Yugoslavian origin. In any case, the Dalmatian is an ancient breed and because of its eventual use in the 19th century as a carriage companion, it loves to run. Today the Dalmatian is used primarily as a companion. As the Disney movie suggested, females tend to have large litters; up to 15 puppies at a time.
|
| Height: |
20 - 24 inches |
| Weight: |
55 pounds |
| Temperament: |
Dalmatian puppies are very active until about one year of age. They are highly intelligent and have excellent memories. Dalmatians that are treated poorly at an early age will remember and be fearful for years. They should be socialized early to ensure that they do not become timid. Dalmatians make great watch dogs. Without human companionship, the Dalmatian is likely to become depressed. |
| Color(s): |
White with spots in black, brown, blue, lemon, sable, brindled or tri-color. Puppies are born solid white and most develop spots later. Some Dalmatians be solid white as adults but this is discouraged in show dogs. |
| Grooming: |
The Dalmatian sheds profusely and should be brushed regularly to keep it under control. Bathing is required only when necessary, as Dalmatians tend to be very clean and will even avoid walking through puddles. |
| Coat(s): |
Short, hard dense coat. The more evenly distributed the spots on a Dalmatian, the greater its value as a show dog. |
| With
Children: |
Dalmatians love to play with children but might be too rambunctious around toddlers. |
| With
Pets: |
Get along well with other pets but might show some aggression around strange dogs. Males tend to dislike other males. |
| Training: |
Highly intelligent and can be trained for high levels of obedience or for defense. Dalmatians do best with firm, consistent training. |
| Exercise: |
Daily exercise is required or they will become destructive. Dalmatians are highly energetic and love to. |
| Health
Issues: |
Deafness affects about 10 - 12% of Dalmatian puppies. Hearing should be checked at six weeks. High uric acid levels in Dalmatians tend to cause urinary tract infections. A high protein diet may prevent them. |
| Housing: |
Not suitable for apartment living unless they can be taken for daily brisk walks. Dalmatians are highly active indoors and will do best with an average sized yard. However, they should not be kept outdoors in the cold. |
| Life
Span: |
10 - 12 years |
| Country
of Origin: |
Most likely central Europe, possibly Croatia |
| Conformation
Group: |
Non-sporting |
