Mary Allen
Walt Disney’s film “101 Dalmatians” triggered a veritable run on the breed. Find out everything about behavior, character, activity and exercise needs, training, and care of the Dalmatian dog breed in the profile.
The origin of the Dalmatian is obscure. The only thing that is clear is that it is a very old breed: the dog was already depicted in the paintings of ancient Egyptian pharaoh tombs and is also mentioned in church chronicles from the 14th and 17th centuries. Since it was particularly common in the eastern Mediterranean and was bred in Dalmatia, it is assigned to this country of origin. However, the first standard was written down by an Englishman in 1882 and was officially recognized in 1890.
General Appearance
The Dalmatian is medium-sized, short-haired, very strong, and overall elegant in appearance. Its fur is white, and is dotted with distinctive black or tan spots, or “spots.” His straight back and long neck are striking.
Behavior and character
The Dalmatian is sensitive, curious, independent, and always full of energy and drive. He is loyal to his owner, prefers to be near him at all times, and is reserved towards strangers. He is also very cuddly and in need of love, but at the same time a very alert dog. It is important to get the Dalmatian used to other dogs, people, and animals from an early age so that he can behave socially outside of his family.
Need for employment and physical activity
Walt Disney’s film “101 Dalmatians” triggered a veritable run on the breed. Unfortunately, because the purchase has to be carefully considered: The Dalmatian is a four-legged sports cannon that insists on daily training sessions. This dog will only be calm and balanced at home if you meet its high need for exercise. Dalmatians are scent hounds and want someone who is just as sporty, who can give them plenty of exercises or train dog sports with them. This dog also likes to romp around with the children in the garden – the emphasis is on “also”: it must not be a substitute for long and intensive exercise units.
Upbringing
He needs a very consistent upbringing, which must never be harsh. As strong as the Dalmatian is physical, his soul is like that of a shy deer. He is extremely dependent on praise and affection from his owners, with positive reinforcement you can quickly achieve good results. The loving treatment must not go so far, however, that he leads the pack as the boss – a tightrope act that beginners will hardly be able to manage. The Dalmatian also reacts strongly to nervous behavior in humans. Rudeness can even lead to a permanently disturbed relationship.
Maintenance
The Dalmatian is the perfect dog for people who don’t feel like grooming themselves frequently. This dog’s coat is very short and extremely hardy and rarely requires attention from the owner.
Disease Susceptibility / Common Diseases
A breed-typical disease in Dalmatians is deafness. It is now known that the risk of deaf puppies increases in proportion to the percentage of white in the parents’ fur. Blue eyes also seem to be an indication of this error. Animals with corresponding abnormalities are excluded from breeding. There is also said to be a tendency to epilepsy and urinary stone disease in this breed.
Did you know?
Even before the movie “101 Dalmatians” appeared, the Dalmatians experienced a time when it was “in fashion”: The European aristocracy and popes had discovered the breed for themselves. Because of their strength, endurance and elegance, they seemed to be the perfect companions for the nobility. But the Vatican’s enthusiasm for the breed surpassed everything: for a while, the Dalmatian was even allowed to adorn the coat of arms of the pontiff.