Dalmatian
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- Dog Breed Group
- Non Sporting Dogs
- Origin of Breed
- Croatia as a versatile working dog
- Life Expectancy
- 12 to 14 years
- Color
- White/Liver, White/Black
- Coat
- Short and dense.
- Exercise Needs
- Very high energy level and is very athletic, for these reasons he should have ample access to a large open space or a regular ro
- Temperament
- The Dalmatian demonstrates great patience and gentleness. Typically quiet and reserved. Early socialization is important.
- Good with Children
- Good with older, considerate children. May be aloof with strangers. Good with older pets and loves horses, but may be aggressive
- Grooming Needs
- Moderate to heavy shedder. Requires daily brushing. Bathe only when necessary.
- Average Size - Male (in)
- 19 - 23
- Average Size - Female (in)
- 19 - 23
- Average Weight - Male (lbs)
- 50 - 55
- Average Weight - Female (lbs)
- 50 - 55
- Health Issues
- The breed has problems with hip dysplasia, urinary bladder stones, skin allergies, and sunburn. It is prone to deafness so checkv
- Living Conditions
- Thrives with an athletic owner.
Breed Description
The Dalmatian is named after the Adriatic coastal region of Dalmatia, its first definite home. The time and place of origin of the breed are unknown. The Dalmatian has served as a sentinel, war dog, fire department mascot, hunter, shepherd, and performer. It is best known, however, as a coach or carriage dog, functioning as an escort and guard for horse-drawn vehicles. A sleek, symmetrically built, short-haired dog, the Dalmatian is characterized by its dark-spotted white coat. It stands 19 to 23 inches (48 to 58.5 cm) and weighs 50 to 55 pounds (23 to 25 kg). In general, it is even-tempered and friendly. Among its nicknames are English coach dog, firehouse dog, and plum-pudding dog. In 19th-century England the breed cleared the way for firemen on the way to the scene of a fire; today the breed is still a firehouse mascot; the popular book '101 Dalmatians' (1956) and subsequent Disney movie propelled this breed to fame