The DalmatianThe Dalmatian is a classic
Family dog and one of the FCI (Federation Cynologique International) recognized dog breed.
He is a medium to large sized dog with a muscular but slender physique, floppy ears and a slightly curved tail. The coat is smooth and has a characteristic black or brown spotted Drawing.
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Origin of the Dalmatian
The origin of the Dalmatian is not completely clarified until today. The first evidence of the existence of the breed was found in the tombs of pharaohs of the
ancient Egypt, but there are also other theories of origin, which place its origin in the Croatian region Dalmatia, Turkey, Italy, India or England suspect.
Since the exact origin is not known is also not possible to say for which tasks the Dalmatian was originally used. Whether as he served as a hunting dog, guard dog or companion dog, is accordingly open. Since the end of the Middle Ages, however, he was in noble houses and as a carriage escort dog popular. For this purpose, he ran for hours next to the carriage to guard it. In the 90s, the breed also gained great fame-. Popularity due to the appearance of the Walt Disney film "101 Dalmatians.
External characteristics of the Dalmatian
FCI and size of a Dalmatian
According to the breed standard of the FCI the size of a Dalmatian is determined by the Height at withers specified. This extends from the ground to the highest point of the back. It amounts to accordingly with the Male dog 56 to 62 cm and with the bitch 54 to 60 cm. Deviating from this, however, smaller or larger specimens also occur from time to time.
Weight of the Dalmatian
The weight should between 27 and 32 kg for the male or between 24 and 29 kg for the bitch are. The adherence to the normal weight corresponding to the size is for the Health of the dog extremely important!
Color of a Dalmatian
Particular to the breed is its striking color: the basic color of the coat is white, on the over the whole body of the dogs black or brown spots are distributed. The size, number and distribution of the spots is individually different from dog to dog. Dalmatian puppies come however completely white to the world. The black or brown spots appear only after about 10 to 14 days after birth appear and then increase and change until about the first year of life. Only then the individual stain of each Dalmatian is finally determined.
Black spotted Dalmatians have black nose and brown eyes, brown spotted dogs have light nose and amber eyes. Also blue eyes occur occasionally, but are not intended for breeding. Besides black and brown spotted Dalmatians there are also other color variants, but not recognized by the FCI and not allowed for breeding are.
The coat of a Dalmatian
The coat of the Dalmatian is short, smooth, dense and shiny typical black and white markings provide. Because the coat is thin, Dalmatians do not have coat-related heat stress problems in warm temperatures, compared to other breeds. In winter, on the other hand, it may be necessary to give the Dalmatian a Coat to dress, as the coat does not warm sufficiently in cold temperatures.
How does the coat care?
The coat does not need much care. You can now and then combine it with soft brush or a nap glove brushing, but this is not absolutely necessary. In this way, however, fine dust can be removed from the fur well. Otherwise it is recommended to bathing the dog every now and then, to keep him clean and well-groomed. For this purpose it should be good dog shampoo and lukewarm water use.
How much does a Dalmatian shed?
Although the coat of the Dalmatian is short, they shed very much. They shed hair all year round, which they spread everywhere and which is also easily visible due to the white color. Through excitement can increase the hair loss be. One should be aware of this fact. Prevent it with pads on upholstery or in the car. With vacuum cleaner and special brushes the hair in the environment can be removed however usually again well.
How is the nature/temperament of a Dalmatian?
The Dalmatian has a friendly nature and is a very lively, eager to run and persevering dog.
– He must therefore always busy are and needs much exercise and employment. jogging, biking or hiking he loves and is also as a Riding companion dog very suitable. dog games or dog sports like agility are also just right for this breed. – Dalmatians are considered sensitive but still temperamental and self-confident. stubbornness and obstinacy they can therefore show quite – They are but free from aggressive behavior. – They are also very cuddly and people-oriented and behave at home calm, provided that they are sufficiently are. then they love to spend time lazily on the couch with their mistress or master.
Since Dalmatians were used in the past mainly as guard dogs, they show quite a strong guarding instinct. At home they announce guests, but are not fearful or aggressive towards strangers.
Dalmatians are clever and docile and rather uncomplicated in upbringing. Due to their temperament and sensitivity, they need a consistent and yet sensitive upbringing without harshness. Dalmatian is a great All-round dog for the active family but also as rescue or assistance dog applicable.
How to deal with children?
Dalmatians are very family- and therefore child-friendly dogs. Especially if the dog has grown up with children, dealing with them is not problematic. However, it should be taken into account that very small children may react fearfully due to the sometimes impetuous nature of the dogs. Children should also be taught how to handle dogs in an animal-friendly way. For dogs in lively households with small children, the establishment and maintenance of resting areas and times for the dog especially important.
How is the handling of cats?
Since Dalmatians are usually not great hunters, a Living together with cats is usually not a problem. If dog and cat are to be kept together, the basic prerequisite for a compatible handling is of course an gentle habituation of the two future housemates to each other. If the Dalmatian is already introduced to the cat as a puppy and the cat tolerates the presence of the dog, nothing should stand in the way of a peaceful coexistence.
Can a Dalmatian also be used as a hunting dog?
Dalmatians were probably not originally bred for hunting and therefore only show little to no hunting behavior. Individual specimens of the breed may nevertheless have a pronounced hunting instinct. As professional hunting dogs are primarily used dogs of classic hunting dog breeds. Under certain circumstances, dogs of other breeds can also take over some hunting tasks. A Dalmatian can therefore be in Individual case as a hunting dog serve, but the breed is not designed for this task.
The attitude of a Dalmatian
Due to their affectionate nature, Dalmatians absolutely require Family connection. Keeping in the yard or kennel is therefore out of the question for this breed. Also due to the thin coat is a Keeping outdoors is not suitable. At home, the dog needs a place in the apartment or in the house where he can retreat.
A soft padded pad must be provided as a sleeping place and is especially important for large dogs to prevent health problems. Water must always be available, however, food and water bowls should not be positioned directly next to the sleeping area. Due to the size and liveliness of the breed, you should give the dog at home moreover provide sufficient space can. A large apartment, preferably with a garden, should be available.
If you want to keep a Dalmatian, you should also make sure that it is enough time has to do justice to his dog. Due to its activity and human-centeredness, the dog needs a lot of exercise, occupation and attention. Long walks every day. A wide range of activities are a must. He should also have enough contact with other dogs. This way the Dalmatian can spend his time playing. On the other hand, a good socialization is important for the dog behavior.
How much time per day should the Dalmatian be left alone??
Since Dalmatians need a lot of exercise and activity, they should be treated for at least two to three hours a day for walks or other outdoor activities such as dog training, dog sports or playing with other dogs. Not to forget is also the time of Attention, that you have to give a dog, especially of this breed, additional daily. Therefore Dalmatians should also be should not be left alone for long periods of time and make sure that the dog is cared for most of the day.
Around the health of the Dalmatian
Common diseases of this breed
Unfortunately, the Dalmatian is one of the more disease-prone breeds. The following diseases are more common in Dalmatians:
Deafness – Hereditary deafness is related to the pigmentation of the skin and occurs in many breeds that have a high percentage of white in the coat color have. Particularly affected by this is the Dalmatian. The triggering gene has not yet been found, which is why a genetic test is not yet possible. Only dogs that can hear in both ears are allowed to breed. To find out if a dog is deaf in one or both ears can already be done in the Puppy age a hearing test carried out and thus decided whether it is suitable for breeding. However, if a dog is deaf in only one ear, this usually does not affect him or her. The Dalmatian syndrome – Also the so-called Dalmatian syndrome, in the technical language also hyperuricosuria/hyperuricemia called, is a hereditary disease. Due to a genetic mutation, there is a disturbance in the so-called purine metabolism and thus increased uric acid levels in the blood and urine of the dogs. As a result, affected dogs develop easily urinary stones. Dalmatian leukodystrophy – The Dalmatian leukodystrophy is also a genetic conditional but rare and incurable disease, affecting the nervous system. There is a degradation of nerve tie and associated Visual and locomotor disorders. fur in the back-. Neck area leads. Causes for the development of this disease can be allergies, stress or the climate its. – Dalmatians are also often from dog allergies, epilepsy or hip dysplasia affected.
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These vaccinations need a Dalmatian
Against the following diseases you should vaccinate your Dalmatian in any case:
– distemper – hepatitis contagiosa canis – parvovirosis – kennel cough (parainfluenza viruses and Bordetella bronchiseptica) – leptospirosis – rabies.
The first vaccination a puppy receives in the
eighth week of life and is usually arranged by the breeder. Since in the Puppy age a basic immunization must take place, the Dalmatian puppy with 12 and 16 weeks vaccinated again. After that Vaccinations refreshed annually become.
Besides the mentioned vaccinations, there are other diseases like Lyme disease or leishmaniasis, against which can be vaccinated. A Discussion with the veterinary surgeon of the confidence clarifies which additional vaccinations are useful for your own dog. Especially for foreign travels a rabies vaccination is obligatory.
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How is the life expectancy of a Dalmatian?
Dalmatians are usually
between 10 and 13 years old. This means that compared to other dog breeds they have a average life expectancy. If you want to get a young Dalmatian, you should consider the long lifetime and be aware that the dog will accompany you for many years.
The cost of a Dalmatian
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Costs for the acquisition
puppies of any breed, regardless of the size, should be serious grower between 1100 and 1300€ cost, so also the Dalmatian. In some cases, breeders also charge more when puppies z.B. have a special pedigree or a little less if there are minor defects such as color defects. Offers of pedigree puppies, which are significantly lower than the normal price level, should be critically questioned, because unfortunately a lot of criminal puppy trade. The prices for adult Dalmatian or Dalmatian mixes are usually lower and are usually in the Range around 600€.
Costs for keeping
For the attitude of a dog one must plan costs for:
– food – taxes – insurance – equipment – dog school – vaccinations – worming and other possible veterinary treatments
The exact amount varies of course, depending on the place of residence, quality and type of food, frequency of dog school visits, necessary vet visits and personal feeling. It is estimated, however, that for a full-grown Dalmatian you should buy ca. 80-100€ per month schedule. At puppies can increase the cost, as here frequent vaccinations and various acquisition costs are added.
The costs for a dog – An overview
What is the best food for dalmatians
There are several ways to feed his Dalmatian.
Basically, a distinction is made between wet food, dry food and BARF.
Whether to feed dry or wet food depends on the dog's preferences and tolerances. There is no right or wrong here.
A conventional complete feed from the pet supply store is quite sufficient for the healthy dog. It contains all the necessary nutrients for the dog and is easy and safe to handle for the dog owner.
For Dalmatians with the Dalmatian syndrome however a protein-poorer feeding becomes necessary and also dogs with allergies need a special fodder.
It may also be necessary to adjust the feeding in case of other diseases. Puppies also have special needs. Must be fed a puppy food until about the first year of life. In addition, they are still fed several times a day, while in the adult dog one or two meals a day are sufficient.
Who wants to BARFen its dog, should undergo a detailed qualified consultation beforehand and already bring along a lot of dog experience. Not proper Barfen can quickly lead to malnutrition. lead to deficiency symptoms in the dog. Advice is offered, for example, by the Department of Veterinary Medicine at the Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich. you want to know more about dog food. Learn about your dog's diet? Then just read our topics:
I need these dog accessories for my Dalmatian
Who gets a Dalmatian, which must buy especially at the beginning of some equipment.
Of course the dog needs a leash and a collar. The leash should be appropriate to the size of the dog and, in the case of a large dog, such as the Dalmatian, should be sufficiently stable. As long as the dog does not yet walk correctly on the leash, so especially in puppy age, a harness is also urgently needed. If the dog pulls on the leash, a harness can absorb the resulting prere without making the dog uncomfortable. A collar should not be used for walking on a leash until the dog has learned to walk on a leash. Later, the harness can still be used for leading or be helpful in other ways.
As a leash can be used normal guide leashes or retractable leashes, depending on taste and intention.
For training purposes and as long as the dog is not yet safely recallable, you should also get a drag line to buy. There are different materials and lengths. The choice of the right drag line as well as its use, should be discussed with the dog trainer.
– a sufficiently large Dog bed, – as well as a dog food
– and a Water bowl necessary.
It is also recommended to have an assortment of grooming products such as
For trips in the car the dog should be well secured. There are different systems for this. Depending on the car and preference, you should choose one of them. For large dogs it is recommended to have a Aluminum box for the trunk. In addition, it may be necessary to buy and put on the Dalmatian, with its thin coat, a coat in winter. A good selection and advice can be found in specialized shops.
Other necessary equipment are toys, poop bags or luminous items for walks in the dark.
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These dog accessories are a must
What to consider when buying a Dalmatian?
When buying a Dalmatian puppy, a trustworthy origin of the dog is extremely important.
The following 12 points should be considered when buying a puppy to make sure the dog comes from a reputable breeder:
– The puppies are earliest with eight weeks given away, mostly even only from the ninth or tenth week of life. – The breeder can be visited at home and have a look at the puppies in advance. – The Mother can be seen and is with the puppies. The father is only sometimes present, because the males often do not live in the breeder's household at the same time. Information about the father must nevertheless be present. – A good Breeder would like to meet the future owners of his puppies and inform yourself about the new home. Notes. Tips from the breeder. – Often also the first food as well as some equipment given. – The puppies have a Pedigree and one Pass.
– The puppies are wormed, chipped and the first time Vaccinated. – There is a purchase contract. – The price is in the appropriate range. – The puppies and the mother seem healthy to be and the attitude and environment is appealing.
Unfortunately, there is a lot of illegal trade where puppies are separated from their mothers far too early and sold with false documents or without papers at all, unvaccinated, not dewormed and often sick. Also dubious local breeders who mass produce puppies and do not keep and treat their dogs well should not be supported.
Puppies from unclear origin often not only have health problems and are badly kept and treated, but they are often also poorly socialized and can therefore later develop problem behavior.
Older Dalmatians are often from private hand or from the Animal shelter given. Also breeders mediate hin. Adult dogs again. Here, too, it is important to consider the conditions of origin. The price is usually lower than for puppies.
Dalmatian puppies – What to keep in mind?
Who acquires a puppy, must take into account a few things. A lot of information regarding feeding or housetraining you already get from the breeder. Puppies are at the earliest with eight weeks to the new owner, before they are still dependent on the care of their mother.
If the puppy has moved in at home, one must think of the next pending Vaccinations and worming think. One should also already before taking over the dog in a Puppy school have registered. Due to its temperament and watchdog characteristics, it is particularly important for the Dalmatian to have from the beginning is properly educated and normal social behavior developed to other dogs. This means that you can give your puppy regular contact with other dogs Must allow.
Likewise, care should be taken to ensure that the small Dalmatian enough resting time has and no walks for hours in the beginning makes. If you overtax your puppy, you will create a hyperactive dog. This can be a problem, especially with lively breeds like the Dalmatian.
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This is the best way to raise a Dalmatian dog!
Every dog owner should already be familiar with his Puppies attend a dog school in order to learn how to raise a dog and to get along with the Education from the beginning to start. Correct training is important, especially with the temperament and size of a Dalmatian. Proper dog training is not so easy. Requires a lot of brains on the part of the dog owner. How exactly to proceed, you learn from a Dog trainer.
Basically, to be absolutely consistent and the puppy from the beginning set up rules. Dog training is never about harshness, but about fine-tuned, for the dog logical signals of restriction and praise. A correct Dog training works without treats! Food should therefore play only a subordinate role in dog training, because the dog must learn to listen to its owner, without making this dependent on certain conditions.
Are there any special features?
A funny feature of the Dalmatian is its Grin. Dogs can pull their chaps up so that their teeth are visible and they look as if they are laughing. At the same time the ears are pulled back and they wag their tail. This behavior is actually called Signs of special joy interpreted and should not be confused with snarling.
These mixed breeds are common
Dalmatian crossbreeds can be planned or result from unintentional mating. Planned crossbreeding is expected to produce visually appealing offspring that will combine the good character traits of both breeds and are healthier, since breed-specific diseases may. not be passed on. In principle, however, all the characteristics of both parent breeds can be found in the mixed breed offspring.
Often encountered are Dalmatian-Labrador mixes. Both breeds have a similar size and balanced, family friendly character have. As a rule, the dense coat of the Labrador the dalmatian typical points are mostly not to be seen any more or only sporadically.
Other common Dalmatian mixes are z.B. Crossbreeds with Border Collie, Golden Retriever, Australian Shepherd or Rhodesian Ridgeback. Mixed breeds of Dalmatians and Border Collies tend to be extremely lively and love exercise, so they are more for very active, athletic people.
Is there a Dalmatian also without points?
All Dalmatians have points, one Variant without spots does not exist. Exceptions can be single specimen with pigment disorders This is not intended for breeding, but of course it is not. In addition, there are specimens with very few spots. The points can be next to black and brown also in light colors these color variants do not belong to the FCI breed standard, however. Dalmatians with few light spots sometimes appear almost spotless without actually being so. Only in the first days of life after birth Dalmatians do not have points yet.
Alternatives to the Dalmatian
Dalmatians are very active dogs, which one can keep busy and for which one much time for walks etc. must include. Those who are active and sporty themselves and are looking for an equally active dog to accompany them a lot could consider a dog of another lively breed in addition to Dalmatians.
Similarly active are z.B. the Magyar Viszla with its sparkling temperament, extremely friendly nature and strong urge to move or the sublime Rhodesian Ridgeback, who also needs a lot of exercise. Also the English Springer Spaniel is a movement-loving, active dog, which is somewhat calmer in nature but very family-friendly.
would rather have a dog with some calmer temperament, which is above all family-friendly, would be the Labrador or Golden Retriever certainly not a bad choice. These breeds are a little more leisurely on the move than the Dalmatian and extremely family friendlyh. But also Cocker Spaniel Is particularly suitable for families with children and does not require as much exercise and exercise as the Dalmatian.