How to Select a Dalmatian

The dalmatian, with its white coat and either black or brown spots, is believed to go as far back as the Middle Ages. In England during the 1800s, the dalmatian was a carriage dog, used to guard its master and carriage. It has also been commonly known as a fireman's dog. A dalmatian makes a wonderful companion and family pet, as it is very loving, obedient and playful with children.

Instructions

1. Reconsider getting a dalmatian if you live in an apartment or plan to keep your dog indoors for long periods of time. Dalmatians are very active and need to have a good-sized backyard to run in.

2. Choose a dalmatian if you are prepared to run or walk it two or three times a day. They have a lot of energy and work well with runners and hikers.

3. Pick a dalmatian if you have children or other pets. However, males don't always get along with other males. Keep in mind that this breed needs constant human affection and can actually get depressed if left alone.

4. Observe the dalmatian's features. The body should be trim with clean lines, and the coat should be hard and white with black or brown spots (depending on if it is a black or liver dalmatian) that do not blend together.

5. Consider adopting a dalmatian from a pet rescue organization. Be aware that because a dalmatian has a good memory, it will remember any former abuse it has suffered, and may not adapt easily to you or your family.

6. Keep in mind that male dalmatians grow to 22 to 24 inches when mature and can weigh up to 55 pounds. Females reach heights between 20 and 22 inches and can also weigh up to 55 pounds.

7. Know that dalmatians can suffer from deafness and should be tested at six weeks of age, prior to purchase. Deaf dalmatians can be difficult to raise, as they snap and act aggressive. Dalmatians are also prone to urinary stones and skin allergies. Talk to the breeder to find out what type of screening has been done for these health problems.

8. Check out potential breeders carefully, being sure to ask if they are members of breed clubs, specialty clubs or obedience clubs. Affiliation with a club means you can check references to make sure the breeder is not running a puppy mill - a place where puppies are constantly bred for financial gain without consideration of the integrity of the breed.

9. Expect a dalmatian to live somewhere between 10 and 12 years.

10. Be prepared to spend between $300 and $1,500 for a purebred dalmatian.

Tips & Warnings

• Puppies are born with white coats. Their black spots come as they mature.

• Dalmatians can have litters of up to 15 puppies.

• If you can't stand doggy odor, a dalmatian is for you. They have almost no doggy smell.

• Dalmatians enjoy chasing flying discs such as Frisbees, and they love to swim.

• Dalmatians do not do well in the cold because of their sensitive skin. They should not be left outdoors in cold weather.

• This breed tends to shed a lot.

• Dalmatians can take up to three years to develop mentally, which is one reason why many of them end up in animal shelters.

• The dalmatian can knock down small children if excited.