It’s a dog’s life when you’ve got Disney doing your PR. The iconic black and white polka-dot Dalmatian took to the screen in the 1961 film 101 Dalmatians, and the rest, as they say, is history. This breed is large and strong, with an easygoing nature and a big need for physical and mental exercise to stay happy. Here’s the lowdown on what makes a Dalmatian a Dalmatian.

Facts:

Breed Group: Utility

Size: Large

Sheds?: Yes

Coat length: Short

Exercise: More than 2 hours per day

Grooming required?: Once a week

History

The Dalmatian may or may not be related to the Pointer and can be traced back to various countries in the past. Basically, no-one can agree on its origins. One thing’s certain – it found favour in Regency-era Britain as a carriage dog, lolloping faithfully alongside the horses while the carriage was in transit and guarding them when it was stationary.

Health

The Dalmatian may or may not be related to the Pointer and can be traced back to various countries in the past. Basically, no-one can agree on its origins. One thing’s certain – it found favour in Regency-era Britain as a carriage dog, lolloping faithfully alongside the horses while the carriage was in transit and guarding them when it was stationary.

Characteristics

The endless energy source

Dalmatians need a lot of stimulation to keep them in tip-top physical and mental condition. Expect to lavish yours with up to two hours of exercise per day! This abundance of energy means they tend to be wilful and a tad boisterous without adequate socialisation and training. Young Dalmatians need strong leadership from their owners – they can become destructive without this sense of structure and aren’t necessarily a great breed to have around children.

Companionship

The good news is that with strict training, Dalmatians make excellent friendly and loyal companions. They settle down into a more placid state of mind once they’ve made it through puppyhood.

Training

Dalmatians are smart enough to be trained for defence and watchdog duties. Not to mention a trick or two…

Housebreaking

Owing to a Dalmatian puppy’s natural exuberance, you should expect housebreaking to be a bit of a challenge. A confident and directive attitude to training will help.

Where to find Dalmatians

Dalmatian Groups

Fancy swapping stories with other Dalmatian owners? Find a group below.

Carriage Dog
British Dalmatian Club

Adopt a Dalmatian

Want to adopt a Dalmatian in need of a loving home? Find a rescue centre below.

British Dalmatian Welfare
British Scottish Dalmatian Welfare

Breeders

Sold on the Dalmatian’s strong look and vivacious attitude to life? Take a look at these Kennel Club Assured Breeders.

Do you own a Dalmatian?

Source

If you own a one let us know in the comments below and upload your picture to our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram tagging @DogBuddyCo.