History of the Dalmatian Breed
The most distinctly patterned breed of the dog world, the spotted Dalmatian, has an unknown origin. While evidence such as art indicates that the Dalmatian is likely an ancient breed, the precise place and time if its creation is also unknown. The name Dalmatian may come from the word Dalmatia, a region located on the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea, in modern day Croatia, but is it unknown if the breed originated there. Another theory is that the Dalmatian is named after Jurji Dalmatin, a Slovenian writer who may have received two Turkish dogs as a gift. Apparently Dalmatin bred these dogs, and the subsequent breed was named after him. While some claim that this breed hailed from Croatia, and it is also believed that the Dalmatian was used as a hound during the Middle Ages. There have been ancient Egyptian bas-reliefs and Hellenic friezes discovered that portray a similar dog. Some say that the Dalmatian’s ancestors could have been a small version of pointers, or the spotted Great Dane. In the 1700s, the Bengal pointer, which had a similar look to the Dalmatian, existed in England. Not only is the origin of this breed unclear, so is the dog’s original function. The Dalmatian played many roles, including bird dog, circus dog, draft dog, ratter, sentinel, shepherd, trailer, and war dog. But the most popular role played by this breed is that of a coach dog. It is believed that this job began in Victorian England, and the Dalmatian protected the horses by trotting beside the coach. Some dogs were even placed in front or beneath the axle of the carriage, and this was considered to be the most elegant position. Evidence suggests that this position may have been passed down by heredity, and that some of these dogs had their ears cropped. But the popularity of the Dalmatian declined after the invention of the automobile. It continued to serve as a coach dog for horse drawn fire engines, which led to the role of mascot for modern fire departments. The Dalmatian has always been a popular pet, as well as a show dog, but the most popular time of this breed was the years after the release of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians.
Size and Appearance of the Dalmatian Breed
With an athletic yet regal look, the Dalmatian features strong, straight, and sturdy front legs. The hindquarters are powerful, and feature smooth, well defined muscles. Both the front and back feet of this breed are compact and compact, with well arched toes, and thick pads. The head is balanced, featuring medium size eyes that are usually brown or blue. The expression is that of intelligence and alertness, which indicates a stable, outgoing nature. The moderately sized ears are wide at the base, and gradually taper to a rounded tip. The powerful muzzle offers a totally pigmented nose, and strong teeth that meet in a scissors bite. The arched neck is quite long, and it blends nicely into the shoulders. The tail is tapered at the tip, and it is carried with a slight upward curve. The gait of the Dalmatian is described as steady and effortless, with great endurance. The short, dense coat of the Dalmatian is glossy and healthy looking. The ground color is white, and spots can come in either black or liver. Spots are generally round and well defined, ranging in size from a dime to a half-dollar.
Dalmatian Temperament
With tireless enthusiasm, the Dalmatian makes a wonderful companion for most active families. It is usually good with other pets, particularly horses, although it may become aggressive toward strange dogs. It is usually better for a family with older children, as it may be to energetic for little ones. The Dalmatian is sometimes known for its stubborn streak, and it can be reserved towards strangers. This breed needs to have something to do, and it does not enjoy just laying around all day. It needs human companionship in order to be well adjusted, as it is a sensitive and loyal dog. Training and socialization at an early age is important to prevent timidity. Firm, consistent training is suggested; this breed has a good memory, and it will remember bad treatment for many years. The Dalmatian can be a good watch dog, but it can become aggressive if not raised properly. Deafness affects 10 – 12% of Dalmatian puppies, which creates training challenges and possible behavioral problems. They are more difficult to raise, and they have a tendency to be aggressive out of fear. A deaf Dalmatian is not suggested for families with children.
Dalmatian Recommended Maintenance
The coat of the Dalmatian is quite easy to maintain, although it sheds constantly. Daily grooming is suggested, simply by rubbing down the coat to remove excess and dead hair. This breed does not have a “doggy odor.” In fact, the Dalmatian is a rather clean dog that has been known to avoid puddles. Bathing only when necessary is suggested. Daily, energetic exercise is necessary. The Dalmatian makes a wonderful jogging companion, and it is generally not satisfied with short walks on a leash. It enjoys playing games and the chance to run freely in a safe environment. An average size, fenced-in yard is recommended. This dog is not good for apartment dwelling unless it can be taken out several times a day for a brisk run. If the Dalmatian does not get enough exercise, it can become bored, depressed, and destructive. It does best when living in the house and playing outside.
Dalmatian Health
Life span: 12 – 14 years
Major concerns: deafness, urolithiasis
Minor concerns: allergies, epilepsy
Occasionally seen: CHD, vWD
Suggested tests: hearing
Note: A unique defect of the Dalmatian is its inability to metabolize uric acid into allantoin, which leads to the tendency to form urinary calculi (stones).
