Overview
- Lifespan: Typically 11-13 years
- Size: Medium to large (19-24 inches tall)
- Maintenance Level: Medium
- Shed Level: High
- Temperament: Loyal, Intelligent, Energetic
- Friendliness: High with family, may be aloof with strangers
- Barking Tendency: Moderate
- Coat Colours: Predominantly white with black or liver spots
Best For
- Active families or individuals who can provide ample exercise
- Owners who enjoy participating in dog sports and activities
Appearance
- Iconic spotted coat
- Muscular build, known for their long silhouette and short legs
- Weighs around 20 to 30 kilograms
Temperament
- Originally bred for hunting, now known for their energetic and brave personality
- Independent, often willing to take charge
- Charming nature makes them a popular choice
Care Guide
- Grooming: Regular brushing needed due to shedding
- Training: Starts best at a young age; independent nature requires consistent training
- Diet & Nutrition: Balanced diet, careful not to overfeed
- Exercise: High energy, requires plenty of physical activity
- Ideal Environment: Thrives in an active household; not suitable for being left alone for long periods
Health
- Bladder Stones: Prone to urinary stones; may require surgery and special diet
- Deafness: High incidence of deafness; special training for deaf dogs needed
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): Can lead to heart failure; regular veterinary monitoring required
- Dalmatian Bronzing Syndrome: Skin condition; may require medication and special care
Additional Information
- Feeding Recommendations: May need a low-purine diet due to risk of bladder stones
- Training Challenges: Intelligent but independent; positive reinforcement works best
- Grooming Needs: Regular grooming; attention to coat, nails, and teeth
- Good Family Dog: Yes, great with children and other pets when socialized
- Intelligence: High; responds well to training
- Energy Level: Very active; needs plenty of exercise
- Health Concerns: Prone to certain hereditary conditions; regular veterinary care important
Grooming Guide
- Skin Care: Regular checks; may need special care for skin conditions
- Coat Care: Weekly brushing; bathing as needed
- Eye Care: Regular checks; watch for signs of eye problems
- Ear Care: Regular cleaning to prevent infections.
Curious to know more? Check out our Dalmatian guide!
