Dalmatians

Dalmatian dogs are well known for their white coats with black spots. Even though the black spots are the most well known coloring, Dalmatian dogs can have liver-colored spots. The short coat of the Dalmatian needs minimal grooming. Dalmatian dogs shed more than many dog breeds. Because a Dalmatian sheds all year, regular brushing helps remove dead hair which means less shed hair in the house. Dalmatians are born completely white and develop their spots within the first weeks of their lives.

The Dalmatian is an old dog breed. The origin of this dog breed is usually assigned to an area called Dalmatia in what used to be Yugoslavia. The name of the dog is often misspelled as Dalmation. Dalmatian dogs guarded camps of U.S. soldiers during both World Wars. In history, it has been one of the favorite dog breeds of the English aristocracy. Many people associate this breed as firehouse dogs.

Dalmatians are a medium to large size dog that typically weighs fifty to seventy pounds. They are generally nineteen to twenty-four inches tall. Dalmatian dogs tend to develop strong bonds with their owners. Dalmatians thrive on attention and interaction with humans. They can be very protective, though some Dalmatians are aloof in the presence of strangers unless they feel threatened.

The Dalmatian does best with an experience dog owner or someone who has experience handling dogs. Dalmatian dogs can be strong-willed and require consistent, early training for the best results. Early socialization is strongly recommended. If properly socialized and trained, Dalmatians make excellent family pets that usually get along well with other pets and children, especially if raised with them.

The Dalmatian is a high-energy dog breed. They do best with plenty of exercise. A long, daily walk is the minimum requirement for this breed. A Dalmatian that is not exercised enough or that is not mentally stimulated will often develop destructive behavior. Dalmatians generally live between eleven and fourteen years. Deafness is probably the medical condition that is best known to be associated with this dog breed. Deafness affects approximately ten percent of Dalmatian puppies. Dalmatians can be susceptible to allergies, diabetes, glaucoma, hip dysplasia, seizures, and kidney, bladder, or gall stones.