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Dalmatian |
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Description... |
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The Dalmatian is a medium sized, white dog with
spots that are often approximately dime sized. Although black or
liver spots are most common, they can also be blue, orange or
lemon. There are also many different coat pattern variations. The
Dalmatian usually weighs between 20 and 35kgs, and the males are
often bigger than the females. Built for long distance endurance,
this breed is well muscled.
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History...
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 The
Dalmatian's past is quite extensive and argued. Many sources claim
the Dalmatian was the first spotted dog in Europe, Asia and
Africa. The first positive location is Dalmatia, on the western
coast of the former Yugoslavia, which was previously an Austrian
province. The Dalmatian is nicknamed by the English as The English
Coach Dog, The Carriage Dog, The Plum Pudding Dog, and The
Firehouse Dog. It is from its first home that the correct name
originates: Dalmatian.
The Dalmatian has been a dog of war acting as a sentinel
at the border of Dalmatia and Croatia. They have been shepherds, as well
as fire house mascots. Dalmatians have also been used as sporting dogs in
a variety of capacities: birds, trail hound, retriever or pack dog. They
were famously used as stylish coach dogs, running under the rear axle of
the coach. Their stamina allowed them to keep up with the horses; their
guarding abilities kept the coach and its contents safe.
Dalmatians first came to firehouses as ratters to kill
vermin in stables and firehouses. Because of their coach experience, they
were soon running alongside, and eventually riding in the fire engines. To
this day, many firehouses in Great Britain and the USA have Dalmatians.
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Traits...
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 Dalmatians
love to run, especially beside bicycles. Be sure to have an
attachment such as a Springer for your bicycle, if you bike with
your Dalmatian or any dog. If your dog is only on a leash, he
could get tangled in the bike, injuring both of you.
Dals also like to swim, and make good running partners
as well, especially for distance runners. They're an all-purpose breed,
capable of hunting, search and rescue and even obedience trials (with much
patient training)! There are even road dog competitions in keeping with
their early use as carriage dogs. During the competitions, the dogs
accompany horses or carriages for distances of 12.5 or 25 miles.
They can be good flyball, Frisbee, agility or
backpacking dogs, depending on the nature of the individual dog.
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Good aspects...
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This breed is active and energetic, and it enjoys
the outdoors. Dalmatians are people oriented dogs that like to
spend lots of time with their families. They love to play,
especially as puppies.
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Health...
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Hereditary deafness is prevalent in Dalmatians. It
cannot be cured out of the breed, and all bloodlines suffer from
this affliction. About 8% are born completely deaf, while over 20%
are born with some kind of hearing problem. Dogs with hearing
impairments are more likely to have behavioural problems.
The Dalmatian also has a unique urinary system. They are
susceptible to urolithiasis (bladder stones) because their urine contains
uric acid rather than urea or allantoin. Bladder/kidney stones can form
from the salts in uric acid. Provide adequate water at all times to lessen
the chance of developing urinary stones. Also, avoid foods high in
purines, (such as liver) which tend to aggravate formation of uric stones.
Consult with your veterinarian about the best diet for a Dalmatian.
Dalmatians also suffer from skin allergies. These
allergies appear like a red or pink rash and may look like hives to their
skin. These are very itchy for the dog.
Dalmatians may also be more susceptible to hip
dysplasia. Be sure to have dogs x-rayed after 2 years of age.
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Be aware...
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Dalmatians do poorly as full-time outside dogs
because their short hair and sensitive skin makes them susceptible
to weather changes. They should not be left outside when the
weather is cold. However, Dalmatians are very active and require
lots of exercise and activity. In fact, this breed may
inadvertently knock down small children because of its often
uncontrollable energy. It is therefore necessary that this breed
be given a lot of exercise and activity.
In spite of its high-energy level, Dalmatians tend to be
emotionally sensitive, often taking 2 to 3 years to mentally mature in
spite of their mature physical appearance. Just to prove it, they may sulk
like an unreasonable toddler when disciplined. Although, they may be aloof
with strangers, are usually not aggressive. And be warned: Dalmatians are
stubborn and need consistent firm training. They may be independent.
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Summary...
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Dalmatians make excellent watchdogs.
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source: petcare information centre-
petcare.umn.edu
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