Overview

Dalmatians are a very old breed and originated in Dalmatia, an area of Yugoslavia. This was a favorite breed of English aristocracy because of their size, stamina and guard dog abilities. In both World War I and World War II, Dalmatians protected U.S. soldier camps. These dogs are most often thought of as being firehouse dogs. They're available in both standard and miniature sizes with either smooth or wire fur.

Activity

Dalmatians need frequent daily exercise. They love to participate in play sessions and activities with family. It's very important to spend quality time with their family. They have a high level of endurance and make wonderful companions for jogging, hiking and walking. Dalmatians love having room to run and romp in so a fenced yard works well for them. This isn't a good breed for apartment living unless you can walk them several times daily.

Care

Dalmatians need frequent brushings using a firm bristle brush. Heavy shedding periods need extra attention. They should only be bathed when necessary with a mild shampoo to keep in the natural oils of the skin and coat. Dalmatians aren't fond of extreme climates and tend to develop fungi from damp soil and grass along with fleas and ticks. Health concerns with Dalmatians include bladder and kidney stones, deafness, hip dysplasia, and skin and food allergies.

Character

Dalmatians are medium size dogs and very energetic and active. They're unique, bold and known as the clowns in the dog world. These are versatile dogs that have the ability to be vermin hunters, hounds, guard dogs and even circus performers. Most people use them to be companions.

Coat

Dalmatians have a smooth, hard, dense and short coat. The color is a distinctive white with spots of either black or liver. When puppies are born, they're totally white and develop their spots as they get older. This is a constant shedding breed with heavy shedding twice a year.

Temperament

Dalmatians are extremely social and they thrive on attention and companionship from humans. These are very sensitive dogs and don't like being left by themselves for long periods of time. When they get bored or lonely, they get depressed, which makes them destructive. Dalmatians aren't good around small children because they're rambunctious and exuberant. Usually, they'll get along with household pets if they've been raised with them, but you may see aggression to strange dogs. Dalmatians are standoffish with strangers and are excellent watchdogs. They only bark when it's absolutely necessary.

Training

Dalmatians need intense early socialization that must continue the rest of their lives along with basic obedience training. If they're not trained, this breed tends to be high-strung or timid. These dogs need to be trained using fairness, patience, firmness, consistency and rewards. This is a breed that excels in agility, obedience competition and fly ball.