About Dalmatians 

A Dalmatian is a highly intelligent and sometimes a highly strung K9. More then anything he will demand to be integrated as a family member. He does not like being left alone for any length of time and will need daily attention and exercise. His short white coat sheds almost throughout the year and will show particularly on dark surfaces. Fully grown he can be quite strong and if left untrained almost impossible to walk on a lead.However if you are looking for a family member and do enjoy the outdoors and would like a K9 Companion which has got a lot of TLC for the whole family then do read on. 

Breed Specific problems in the Dalmatian: 

Each one of the over 400 registered breeds world wide has got it’s own breed specific problems. Some more, some less. The main issues with a Dalmatian are the possibility of unilateral or bilateral deafness which he shares with over 60 other breeds and the unique possibility of forming the same urate stones as human beings.  A reputable breeder will BAER (hearing) test all his breeding stock and would not breed from unilateral or bilateral deaf parents. He will also have all his puppies tested by a fully qualified veterinarian before they leave his kennels. Don’t just take a breeders word for it but do ask for the documents to proof this.   

Regarding the different metabolism of a Dalmatian and the possibility of urate stones a reputable breeder will always advise you on how to feed a Dalmatian and how to reduce the risk that their puppies will become stone formers. It certainly does not happen to all Dalmatians, not even a very large amount of dogs will ever form stones but it is something that you need to be aware of, so that you can make an informed decision.

In the 1970's Dr. Schaible from the US has also started a breeding program by crossing in one pointer. The so called LUA project has since been continued. Currently there are  5 LUA (Low Uric Acid) Dalmatians in Europe and slowly the European Clubs are beginning to work out breeding programs to lessen or even eradicate this issue over time.

Many countries outside the UK also take part in Hip screening programs - in some countries it is a must before a bitch or dog are used in breeding. Personally I have grown up in such a country and will therefore continue to screen my own dogs and use, wherever possible, stud dogs which have also been tested. However it is not one of the breed specific problems but I feel that it helps keeping hip dysplasia out of the breed and breeders informed.  

Before you buy your Dalmatian:  

Before you set out to view your possible future puppy you should make sure that you like the adult dog. It is not a bad idea to go and visit a few dog shows. This will give you a good preview about the actual size and temperament of your chosen breed .  There will be plenty of breed enthusiast which will be more then happy to share their information with you. Information about location and dates for shows is readily available on the web and can be found on most breed clubs web pages.Please use the other buttons under "Dalmatian FAQ" to read more about Dalmatians. 

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