Dalmatian Puppies

Dalmatians are playful, energetic, and sensitive dogs that thrive on companionship. They're at their happiest when spending time with people, especially their family members. Dalmatians love to be involved in family activities, and do not tolerate being left alone for extended periods of time. Without enough human interaction, these dogs may become destructive or experience separation anxiety. Around strangers, a Dalmatian is usually quiet and sometimes timid. Dals usually get along with other dogs and pets, but it's best if they're raised with them. Dalmatians are very energetic and love exercise, so they're not ideal for apartment living. With enough physical and mental stimulation, though, the Dalmatian is well-behaved at home. Over all, in the right home, these dogs make excellent companions and family pets.

Dalmatians can be prone to both unilateral and bilateral deafness, as well as kidney stones. Reputable breeders will genetically test their stock and provide you with the results.

Dalmatians have a high energy level and require daily exercise to remain happy and healthy. They make great hiking and running partners, and love playing ball games in the backyard. If they don't get enough exercise they can fall into mischievous habits.

A Dalmatian's coat should be brushed at least every other day to maintain its gloss and shine. They shed heavily, so regular brushing also removes loose hair before it ends up on your floors and furniture. Their coat is dirt resistant, and they should only be bathed when necessary to prevent dry skin and allergic reactions.

Their short and dense coat will shed heavily year round, and their hair can be tough to remove from carpets and furniture if not dealt with quickly.

Dalmatians are best known for their white coat with black spots that appear at about 3 weeks. Their coat is usually short, find, and dense and sheds year round. They have well defined muscles that are built for stamina. Their ears sit high and fold down, and should be regularly cleaned.

The origins of the Dalmatian are, for the most part, unknown. While it was named after Dalmatia, a region in western Yugoslavia that's now known as Croatia, it most likely did not originate there. Over the years, Dalmatians were used for a variety of purposes, from herding to retrieving. In England, the breed was very popular as a coaching dog, used to clear pathways before horses, run alongside the coach, and even guard the horses and coach when not in use. In fact, Dalmatians remain especially fond of horses today. In the United States, the Dalmatian had a different purpose and was mainly used as a firehouse dog. Today, Dalmatians are mainly seen in homes as companions and family dogs.