The Most Frequently Asked Questions about Dalmatians

There are always lots of questions when you are considering adding a new doggie member to your family. I hope this information will help you in this big decision.

How big do they get?

They grow quickly into large, active dogs -- the average male weighs up to 65 pounds and the average female weighs 50 pounds. They stand almost two feet tall at the shoulder -- usually taller than the typical Labrador Retriever.

Generally Dalmatians make good family pets. However, if you buy your Dal on impulse after seeing one of the 101 Dalmatian movies or after your child begs for one, you are setting yourself up for disappointment, heartbreak and trouble. Dalmatians can provide years of devoted companionship for you and your family if you put time and effort into training. And remember, all dogs need supervision around young children.

When you get a dog to be part of your family and put the time and effort into training it, you can have years of devoted companionship. Dogs and young children should always be supervised. An exuberant, young Dalmatian can bump into a toddler.

All dogs and owners benefit from obedience. An intelligent and lively breed like the Dalmatian definitely requires formal training. It is important for a dog to know its place in life; Dals must know who is in charge and what the rules are. They are smart and a bit stubborn, and will learn to take advantage of an owner who lets them get away with bad behavior. If a pup is taught the rules early and attends basic obedience classes, both the dog and its family will be much, much happier.

Yes, 365 days a year! Even though they are short haired, they don't generally make good pets for people allergic to dogs.

You betcha! Originally bred as guard dogs for the coaches of royalty, many Dals still take this responsibility seriously. They were bred for endurance as they trotted along accompanying their master's coach. Young dogs in particular need quite a bit of exercise. Unless a fenced yard is available, the Dal owner should plan on taking their dog on regular -- 1 to 2 mile -- walks, runs or jogs. The Dalmatian that gets too little exercise will often become a noisy and/or destructive dog.

About one in every 12 Dalmatians is born deaf. Deaf dogs do not make good family pets as they may bite when startled and can be difficult to train. No responsible breeder will sell or place a deaf Dalmatian.

Dals may be liver, or brown, spotted. Liver Dals have deep brown spots, brown noses and golden brown eyes. Black spotted and liver spotted dogs may be born in the same litter, as liver is recessive to black. Blue eyes, or one blue eye and one brown -- quite common in Dalmatians -- are acceptable.

Dalmatians have a genetic tendency to develop kidney and bladder stones. Stone-forming dogs need a special low protein diet. Some dals develop allergies, which can be treated. Many aspects of canine temperament and personality are inherited.

Seek out a reputable breeder.  Conscientious breeders are willing to answer your questions AND will ask you questions about how the dog will fit into your life, including time and commitment. Ask the breeder about the temperament of the parents and if they have been hearing tested and X-rayed for hip dysplasia. See if the breeder is willing to give references of previous buyers? The breeder should give a written contract, registration papers, and health guarantee.