Dalmatian Dog

Breed: Dalmatian
Temperament: energetic, boisterous
Cost: $500 - $700
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Maintenance: low
Recommended for: families without toddlers, active people

History

A little known region in Croatia, called Dalmatia, is said to be the historical home of the Dalmatian. There are some records of spotted dogs being present in Croatia, but nothing to support the theory that they originated there. Historical evidence of spotted dogs is also recorded in North Africa and Asia.

Dalmatians reportedly became popular amongst carriage drivers in England in the 19th century. They were known to trot alongside the carriage to ward off attacks from highwaymen. Although there is no doubt that other types of dog were also used for this purpose, Dalmatians became known as the quintessential 'carriage dog'. Its popularity even extending to that of an escort and mascot for United States metropolitan fire trucks.

The Dalmatian is a very popular breed all around the world. The breed regularly hovers around the top twenty most popular breeds in Australia.

Appearance

The breed as we know it today has physical characteristics similar to both pointers and hounds, however the Dalmatian is used neither for scent work nor as a gun dog. Its primary use, both historically and currently, is as companion and guard dog.

Much like the Pharaoh hound, Greyhound and Whippet, the coat is short, dense, fine and close fitting. The balanced, strong and muscular physique, without bulk or coarseness, is also very much like that of the gundogs - the Pointer, Weimaraner or the German Shorthaired Pointer.

Dalmatians are large dogs, ranging in height from 56-60cm (22-24") and weigh about 23-28kg (50-62lb). Bitches are invariably at the smaller end of the scale.

The main characteristic which defines the Dalmatian is its spots. Born with white hair and small pigmented spots in the skin, the coloured spots develop at around two to three weeks and the nose will darken at about three months of age. The spots continue to form with age usually up to two or three months, developing into either black or brown, called liver. The spots should be round, clearly defined and not overlapping.

Temperament

Well bred dalmatians are loyal and loving companions and are eager to please their owners. They make excellent watchdogs. Although not yappy, they will however alert their owner if something is amiss. They are powerful, active and boisterous dogs that do need discipline. You can expect young pups to dig holes in the yard and chew up your plants too. At least until the dog has matured and learned some obedience. With an average working dog intelligence, the Dalmatian will enjoy obedience training and excels at agility classes. Dalmatians have a stable, outgoing nature which suits an active family.

In the mid 1990s, increased popularity due to high public exposure from films such as 101 Dalmatians led to over-breeding by some unscrupulous profit seekers. Little regard was made for the health and mental well-being of the breed, leading to issues relating to poor health and dubious temperament. Not all breeders were so careless, and it is important to purchase puppies from reputable breeders. Check with the local dalmatian clubs.

Health and lifespan

A Dalmatian's white coat and pale pigmentation will contribute to the likelihood of sunburn. The most susceptible areas, the nose, ears and eye-rims, will be less inclined to burn where more pigment is present.

A metabolic defect unique to the Dalmatian breed can lead to liver and subsequent bladder problems, resulting in bladder stones. This is a heritable disease and is best avoided by purchasing from breeders whose dogs do not possess the condition. Encouraging the dog to drink plenty of water will minimise the effects of the disease.

In past veterinary journals, deafness was reported in up to 30% of the breed. Breeders say this figure is not representative of Australian lines. Deafness will usually show up in puppies by about four weeks of age. People considering buying a Dalmatian puppy should deal with a reputable breeder and always have the dog's hearing checked.

Another problem reported by breeders is allergies which may result in skin lesions. Paspalum grass is one known cause of these allergies.

Dalmatians live for between 12-14 years.

Maintenance

While they do not have a strong doggy odour a fortnightly bath is adequate. When a dalmatian sheds, the white hair is very noticeable and daily wiping with a rubber glove will remove most loose hairs.

Breeding and costs

Dalmatians have large litters of between eight to eleven puppies and they whelp easily. Dalmatians range in price from $500 for a pet up to $700 for a show quality dog.

Space

Most Dalmatians find an average to large backyard adequate, but they are a breed of great physical endurance, able to travel at a moderate pace for great lengths of time. A morning and evening walk is recommended to burn off energy and stimulate the dog's mental well-being. Breeders warn Dalmatians have little road sense and need a well fenced backyard.

Recommended for

Although not ideal for an elderly person, a dalmatian does make a great pet for athletic people, runners, joggers and young families. They are considered good family pets but one should be conscious of their exuberance around toddlers and small children.

Further information

We filmed this segment with members of the Dalmatian Club of South Australia.

NSW
Dalmatian Club of NSW Inc.
Secretary Marilyn Miller
Phone: (02) 9634 6458

VIC
The Dalmatian Club of Victoria Inc.
Secretary Anne Lenne
Phone: (03) 5998 2374

QLD
Dalmatian Assoc of Qld.
Secretary: Nicole Levi-Allard
Phone: (07) 3325 1011

SA
Dalmatian Club of SA Inc.
Puppy information Deborah Hall
Phone (08) 8262 6001

Copyright 2008 CTC Productions