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Important
facts about owning a Dalmatian.
Will
you enjoy living with a Dalmatian? That depends. Dalmatians are
wonderful dogs. However, you need to understand the history of the
breed and what makes Dalmatians so unique. Without this understanding,
a Dalmatian can be your worst nightmare.
Did you know Dalmatians were bred to run with a coach and horses?
They were also used to guard the coach and the horses. To guard,
they required an intelligent nature; to run all day, they required
an extremely high energy level. All Dalmatians need both physical
and mental stimulation. Without it, they can easily become bored
and destructive. As a Dalmatian owner, you will need time to train
and exercise your dog. A fully grown Dalmatian can weigh 50 to 70
lbs. Dals are very energetic, intelligent, stubborn, and playful.
Their whip-like tails can clear a coffee table in five seconds!
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Is
a Dalmatian the right dog for you? It depends as much on your
own personality and lifestyle as the personality of the dog you
are planning to adopt.
DALS are a good family dog BUT
too lively for children under five.
DALS are intelligent and quick to
learn BUT stubborn; they need firm
but gentle hand, obedience training. They are not for people who
don't set limits.
DALS are people oriented, excellent
indoor & outdoor companion BUT
they are not a yard dog and need lots of people contact.
DALS love to go, go, go. They like
jogging and biking BUT needs owner
involvement.
DALS are natural watch dogs; polite
when properly introduced. They are loyal to family and will protect
BUT may be aloof with strangers.
They are not a "loves everybody" dog, and may bite if
pushed.
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DALS
are generally good with other dogs BUT
are not "pack" temperament, may quarrel with strange dogs,
especially males with males.
DALS are generally healthy BUT
can suffer from genetic deafness, uric stones and skin problems
and do not like cold weather for long periods of time
DALS are loved by owners who like active,
challenging dogs BUT not liked by owners
who want quiet, settled dogs.
Before
adopting a Dalmatian, ask yourself these six questions.
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