It’s a dog’s life when you’ve got Disney doing your PR. The iconic black and white polka-dot Dalmatian took to the screen in the 1961 film 101 Dalmatians, and the rest, as they say, is history. This breed is large and strong, with an easygoing nature and a big need for physical and mental exercise to stay happy. Here’s the lowdown on what makes a Dalmatian a Dalmatian.
Facts:
Breed Group: Utility
Size: Large
Sheds?: Yes
Coat length: Short
Exercise: More than 2 hours per day
Grooming required?: Once a week
History
The Dalmatian may or may not be related to the Pointer and can be traced back to various countries in the past. Basically, no-one can agree on its origins. One thing’s certain – it found favour in Regency-era Britain as a carriage dog, lolloping faithfully alongside the horses while the carriage was in transit and guarding them when it was stationary.
Health
The Dalmatian may or may not be related to the Pointer and can be traced back to various countries in the past. Basically, no-one can agree on its origins. One thing’s certain – it found favour in Regency-era Britain as a carriage dog, lolloping faithfully alongside the horses while the carriage was in transit and guarding them when it was stationary.
Characteristics
The endless energy source
Dalmatians need a lot of stimulation to keep them in tip-top physical and mental condition. Expect to lavish yours with up to two hours of exercise per day! This abundance of energy means they tend to be wilful and a tad boisterous without adequate socialisation and training. Young Dalmatians need strong leadership from their owners – they can become destructive without this sense of structure and aren’t necessarily a great breed to have around children.
Companionship
The good news is that with strict training, Dalmatians make excellent friendly and loyal companions. They settle down into a more placid state of mind once they’ve made it through puppyhood.
Training
Dalmatians are smart enough to be trained for defence and watchdog duties. Not to mention a trick or two…
Housebreaking
Owing to a Dalmatian puppy’s natural exuberance, you should expect housebreaking to be a bit of a challenge. A confident and directive attitude to training will help.
Where to find Dalmatians
Dalmatian Groups
Fancy swapping stories with other Dalmatian owners? Find a group below.
Carriage Dog
British Dalmatian Club
Adopt a Dalmatian
Want to adopt a Dalmatian in need of a loving home? Find a rescue centre below.
British Dalmatian Welfare
British Scottish Dalmatian Welfare
Breeders
Sold on the Dalmatian’s strong look and vivacious attitude to life? Take a look at these Kennel Club Assured Breeders.
Do you own a Dalmatian?
If you own a one let us know in the comments below and upload your picture to our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram tagging @DogBuddyCo.