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In common with most breeds, the Dalmatian has its own distinctive character and personality and its own particular requirements from its owners and home if a happy and rewarding partnership is to be achieved. It is, therefore, wise for the would-be owner to consider carefully before falling for that adorable spotted bundle of charm. With its clean elegant lines and spectacular spotted coat the Dalmatian makes an instant appeal to many people who are thinking of buying a dog. Do not overlook the fact that they are a powerful muscular animal, and as they mature the training needs to be firmer and requires a lot of time and patience as they have a tendency to be strong minded, but love and bribery work wonders. Their short coat is easy to keep clean but they shed hair continually at a steady rate throughout the year and more heavily whilst moulting. They thrive on human companionship and will return the affection and friendship you offer them. If your lifestyle is one which will leave your dog alone for long hours please reconsider having a dog as they should not be left for longer than 2 - 3 hours. Points to ponder. Although the Dalmatian puppy grows rapidly from the chubby eight week old to the leggy canine teenager, full growth may not be complete until twelve to fifteen months, even then there is a lot of "filling out" to be done. During this period a plentiful diet of good body-building food is essential - this will not be cheap. It is also during this time that the puppy will be at its most active and full of life and must have scope for plenty of play and free exercise. From the age of five or six months progressive amounts of regular daily road walking must be given to firm up muscles and feet and to teach manners in relation to people and other dogs. Do visit some adult Dalmatian dogs and bitches, this will give you a good idea of their size and strength. A Dog Show is a good opportunity to see a number of Dalmatians together. It is often possible to visit adult Dalmatians in your own area. Consult the Club Secretary who will advise you of your District Representative. When selecting a puppy DO NOT RUSH, you are choosing a companion who will be a member of your family for the next twelve to fourteen years. Its happiness and well-being will be your responsibility. DO GO TO A REPUTABLE BREEDER and be prepared for some searching questions. This is only done to ensure that the puppy is going to a safe and loving home thereby reducing the heartbreak of changing homes at a later date. ASK TO SEE THE MOTHER. This will give you a good idea of what a charming puppy will grow in to. It may also be possible to see the father. ENSURE YOU CLARIFY THE TERMS OF THE SALE. Talk to the breeder about what is to be included in the purchase price, e.g. will the puppy be insured, will it be registered at the Kennel Club, will there be any conditions attached to the sale? Seek assurance that the puppy can hear - this is most important. Ask for your receipt to indicate any conditions of sale. It can be difficult to change the terms once you have bought a puppy. Some puppies offered for sale may be patched. Occasionally a Dalmatian may have one or two blue eyes, this does not affect their eyesight. The Breeder may offer you advice on choosing a puppy but remember that the ultimate choice is yours. Remember, if you are not completely happy, there will always be another litter to see. HOW MUCH DOES A DALMATIAN EAT? This will vary with individuals, make sure you are given a diet sheet at the time of purchase. The adult Dalmatian has a large appetite. NEVER GIVE COOKED BONES. Vegetables are excellent and some good quality crunchy dog biscuits will help the teeth. Provided good quality food is supplied, additives are not necessary. ALWAYS see that there is plenty of fresh clean water available, this is a must. REGULAR controlled walking is required each day. In addition, free running exercise under supervision is essential at least once a day but not immediately after meals. INOCULATIONS are essential. These should be boosted as advised by your Vet. Enquire at your local surgery for charges. From time to time your Dalmatian may needs veterinary attention, it is worth considering insurance which will cover this. The Dalmatian is one of the oldest recorded breeds of dog and has remained virtually unchanged in this country for several centuries, as is shown in paintings and drawings by many famous artists. Drawings of spotted hounds are to be found in some of the Egyptian tombs and Greek caves over 3,000 years old. They were also very well known in India during the Middle Ages when they started to appear in Europe. It is assumed they came over with the Spice Caravans as guard dogs, hence the ease they took to running with the Coaches. How they came to be called Dalmatians is a mystery as until 1926 there was no record of them in Yugoslavia, the first two being imported from that Country. Their close association with the Romanies may account for their uncanny powers of communication. Perhaps the most important thing of all for happy ownership is to understand that Dalmatians need people. Blessed with a high degree of intelligence and a need for affection, they are not suited to owners who regard them merely as "The Dog", an appendage to the household to be left alone for long periods shut up or worst still, shut out, and just occasionally made a fuss of when the owner has some spare time. If this is what you want from a dog, please do not buy a Dalmatian. Secretary of the British Dalmatian Club: For information on local training classes, consult your District Representative. Recommended reading: Copyright © British Dalmatian Club 1997 |