Dalmatian
Overview
The Dalmatian is a breed noted for its white coat with either black or liver spots. Although other color variations do exist, any color markings other than black or liver are a disqualification for purebred Dalmatians. The famous spotted coat is unique to the Dalmatian breed; no other purebred dog breed features the distinctive spotted markings. The breed takes its name from the Croatian province of Dalmatia, where it is supposed to have originated.
Dalmatian physique
- Weight: 55 pounds (25 kg.)
- Height: 22-24 inches (50-60cm.)
- Coat: Short, hard, dense
- Litter size: Average is 8
- Life span: 10-12 years
Personality
As a result of their history as coach dogs, Dalmatians are very active and need plenty of exercise. They are very fast runners, with a great deal of stamina and self-reliance. Given freedom to roam, they will take multi-day trips on their own. In today's urban environment, they will not likely survive such excursions and must be contained. Their energetic and playful nature make them good companions for children, and they have an instinctive fondness for humans and horses. These qualities make them somewhat "unbreakable", and forgiving of rough handling by children. However, it is imperative that they be socialized with children while still puppies, and also that children be taught the correct way to play with animals.
Training
They have very sensitive natures, and never forget ill-treatment and cannot be trained by using rough methods. However, their rambunctious and playful personalities necessitate constant supervision around very small children, whom they may accidentally knock over and hurt. Dalmatians are extremely people-oriented dogs and will get very lonely if left by themselves. They should be trained to accept their owner's absence if they must be left alone, as otherwise they will pane severely. A better option is to provide companions. Dalmatians are famed for their intelligence, and survival instincts. In general they have good memories and are usually kind-natured (though individual dogs may vary). Originally bred to defend carriages and horses, these dogs can become territorial if not trained otherwise.
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