Dalmatians

Pet Road Tests > Dogs

BREED:Dalmatian
TEMPERAMENT: Boisterous and active
COST: $250 plus, $600 for show dogs
LIFESPAN: 12-14 years
RECOMMENDED FOR: Families and active people
DUMPAGE RATE: Low
MAINTENANCE: Low

History

Dalmatians are believed to have originated from Dalmatia in Yugoslavia, but there is no evidence supporting this claim. The earliest painting of a spotted dog in the tombs of Thebes (3000BC) depicts it running alongside an Egyptian chariot. It is claimed that Dalmatians were popular with ancient Romani gypsies who travelled widely and introduced the spotted dog to Africa, Asia and Europe. In the 18th and 19th centuries the Dalmatian was used for protection and decoration of the carriages of the English aristocracy. They were also used as a firehouse dog, using their intelligence and bravery to help firemen. More recently, Dalmatians have increased in popularity and attracted attention after the success of the Disney film 101 Dalmatians.

Appearance

Dalmatians range in height from 58-60cm (23-24") and weigh 25-28kg (55-62lb) for the males while bitches are slightly smaller, with height ranging from 56-58cm (22-23") and weigh about 23-25kg (50-55lb). Dalmatians can have black spots on white or brown spots (liver and white). They are born white and the coloured spots develop at around two to three weeks and noses darken at about three months of age. The spots continue to develop with age usually up to two or three months. The spots should be round, clearly defined and not overlapping.

Temperament

Dalmatians are loyal and loving companions and are eager to please their owners. They are powerful, active and boisterous dogs that do need discipline. Dalmatians have a stable, outgoing nature which suits an active family. Breeders suggest male dogs are stronger than females, which are usually more timid.

Health and lifespan

The white coats of Dalmatians can sunburn. The more pigment on susceptible areas like the nose, ears and eye rims the better the protection.

Deafness may be a problem in the breed and this 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.

Dalmatians may have problems with their kidneys, with bladder stones called urate crystals in the bladder. This problem is more likely to occur in males than females and can be avoided by encouraging the dogs to drink plenty of water.

Other minor problems reported by breeders included tail splitting and allergies. In particular paspalum grass can cause allergies.

Dalmatians live for between 12-14 years.

Feeding

Breeders warn against overfeeding Dalmatians and suggest a balanced diet of vegetables and dry food.

Breeding and costs

Dalmatians have large litters of between eight to ten puppies and they whelp easily. Dalmatians range in price from $250 for a pet up to $600 plus for a show quality dog.

Housepet potential and trainability

Dalmatians are good dogs indoors but potential owners need to be aware they are large dogs and need obedience training to keep them under control. Training Dalmatians from a young age is beneficial and they have an average working dog intelligence.

Space and exercise

Most Dalmatians find an average to large backyard adequate, but they do need a morning and evening walk to burn off energy and improve the dog's mental well-being. Breeders warn Dalmatians have little road sense and need a well fenced backyard.

Grooming

Daily wiping with a rubber glove will remove most loose hairs and a fortnightly bath is adequate.

Ideal owner

Dalmatians are ideal for athletic people, runners, joggers and young families, they are considered good family pets.

Further information

NSW
Breeder
Raelene Hoole
28 Ellim Place
Cranebrook 2749
Phone: (047) 292 306

The Dalmatian Club of NSW also has a Dalmatian rescue program, contact the breeder above for more information.

NT
North Australian Canine Association
PO Box 375321
Winnellie 0821
Phone: (08) 8984 3570

QLD
Dalmatian Association of Qld
Secretary: Jacki Low
PO Box 8063
Wynnum North. 4178
Phone: (07) 3393 4867
Mobile: 0419 220 101

SA
Dalmatian Club of SA Inc
Secretary: Sybil Nelson
24 Ellen Street,
Nailsworth. 5083
Phone: (08) 8388 4669
Website: http://adl.auslink.net/~hostile/brendan/index.html
e-mail: dcsa@theoffice.com

Dalmatian Club of SA Inc
Puppy inquiries:
Eve Clark
Phone: (08) 8388 4669

TAS
Tasmanian Canine Association
PO Box 116
Glenorchy 7010
Phone: (03) 6272 9443

VIC
The Dalmatian Club of Victoria Inc
Secretary: Brenda Whyte
10-12 Peters Road
Seville East 3139
Phone: (03) 5964 7525

WA
The Canine Association of WA
PO Box 301
Gosnells 6110
Phone: (08) 9455 1188

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