Dalmatian breed guide: Care, training, and fun facts
Breed guide overview
About Dalmatians
Temperament
Exercise
Grooming
Training
Diet
Health
About the Dalmatian breed
Dalmatians are instantly recognisable with their unique coat pattern of black or liver spots on a white background. The are mostly short haired although can be long-haired too.
They have a long history and were originally bred to be carriage dogs, guard dogs, and even firehouse mascots. Dalmatians are born completely white and develop their spots as they grow older!
Weight, height and life expectancy
These dogs are of medium size and have a well-muscled body. Male Dalmatians can reach a height of up to 61 cm, while females are slightly smaller, averaging around 56 cm.
In terms of weight, they typically weigh between 23 and 27 kg.
On average, Dalmatians have a life expectancy of 11 to 13 years.
What is the temperament of Dalmatians like?
Dalmatians are energetic, outgoing, and intelligent, making them great companions for active families. They thrive on interaction and need regular physical and mental stimulation to stay happy. While generally good with children, their boisterous nature may require supervision around younger kids.
Their strong hunting instinct can lead to a tendency to chase smaller animals, so early training and socialisation are crucial for positive interactions with other pets and people.
Dalmatians are loyal and protective, making them excellent watchdogs, but they are also sensitive and respond best to consistent, positive reinforcement during training.
Our Dalmatian Community
“Oreo is our gorgeous 4 month old Dalmatian pup. He’s full of beans, very friendly and playful. He loves to have a cuddle, chase a ball and play with other dogs (and humans).”
Oreo's owner, Matthew from Dorking
“Rey is small Dalmatian weighing only 20kgs. She is a super house dog and very well trained. She is very chilled at home and very easy to have around. She loves to play with her toy especially her favourite ball. She is very cuddly and loving."
Rey's owner, Camilla from Reading
How much exercise does a Dalmatian need?
Dalmatians are a highly active breed that thrives on regular physical and mental stimulation. On average, they require at least 1.5 to 2 hours of exercise daily to stay happy, healthy, and well-behaved. Activities such as brisk walks, jogging, playing fetch, or engaging in dog sports like agility and obedience training are great ways to meet their needs and reduce the risk of behavioural problems.
Puppies, however, have different exercise requirements compared to adult Dalmatians. During their growth phase, it’s important to avoid excessive high-impact activities, as these could harm their developing joints. Instead, focus on shorter play sessions, gentle walks, and supervised play in secure areas. Once a Dalmatian reaches around 12 to 18 months of age, they can gradually transition to a full adult exercise routine.
For specific advice, always consult your vet, as individual needs may vary depending on your dog’s age, health, and overall activity level.
Need an extra hand exercising your Dalmatian? Find a local borrower today.
Do Dalmatians need a lot of grooming?
Dalmatians have a short, dense coat that is relatively low-maintenance but does shed moderately year-round, with heavier seasonal shedding twice a year. Regular brushing with a firm bristle brush or grooming mitt, ideally a few times a week, helps remove loose hair and maintain their coat’s health and shine.
Although their coat is short, Dalmatians can still track dirt, so occasional baths with a dog-specific shampoo may be needed to keep them clean. Routine care also includes nail trimming every few weeks to prevent overgrowth and discomfort, as well as regular ear checks to avoid wax buildup or infections.
Like any dog, regular tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste twice daily is ideal. If you can’t manage that often, just do it as often as you can.
Are Dalmatians easy to train?
Dalmatians are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them trainable, but their independent and sometimes stubborn nature can present challenges. Consistency, patience, and clear communication are key to successfully training a Dalmatian. Early socialisation and obedience training are essential to help them become well-rounded and confident adults.
Dalmatians also benefit from variety in their training to prevent boredom. They’re highly active and intelligent, so incorporating mental stimulation along with physical exercise into their routine can reduce undesirable behaviors caused by pent-up energy. With the right approach, Dalmatians can excel not only as companions but also in various dog sports and advanced obedience training.
Want to experience spending time with a Dalmatian to decide if this breed is right for you? Borrow a Dalmatian near you.
What do Dalmatians eat?
A balanced, nutritious diet is important for the health and well-being of Dalmatians. High-quality dog food tailored to their age, size, and activity level is generally recommended. Dalmatians typically do well eating twice daily, though portion sizes should be carefully measured to prevent overeating or weight gain.
It’s important to note that Dalmatians are prone to forming urinary stones due to their unique metabolism. A diet lower in purines, found in foods like organ meats, certain fish, and some legumes, can help minimise this risk. Make sure to consult with your vet for specific dietary recommendations as each dog is different.
Are Dalmatians healthy?
Dalmatians are generally a healthy breed, but they may be prone to certain health issues, including:
Bones and Joints
Hip Dysplasia - a condition where the thigh bone and pelvis do not sit together properly at the hip joint, which can lead to discomfort and arthritis
Ears
Deafness - either very little or no ability to hear
Heart
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) - a disease of the heart muscle causing the heart ventricles to get larger, which can lead to heart failure
Neurological
Epilepsy - A condition of the brain that causes dogs to have fits
Skin
Atopy - when the immune system overreacts to an allergen and results in skin irritation.
Urinary
Bladder Stones - Stones form in the bladder which can be uncomfortable and cause a blockage
This list is by no means comprehensive, if you have any concerns about the health of your dog, or if you want to discuss further if a Dalmatian is right for you, consult with your vet.
Vet top tip
Dalmatians are an active breed with high energy needs, so maintaining a proper balance of exercise and nutrition is key. Avoid over-exercising puppies to protect their developing joints, and always provide a high-quality diet tailored to their unique needs. Regular vet visits will ensure their growth, weight, and overall health stay on track as they age.
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Information on this page should never replace advice given by your veterinarian. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive. If you ever have any concerns about your dog’s health, contact your local vet.
