DOG FAQ - How much does a Dalmatian puppy cost?

You can expect to pay between $800 and $1,000 for a well-bred "pet" Dalmatian puppy. Usually show quality dogs cost more. Remember the old saying you get what you pay for. When buying a Dalmatian or any dog for that matter, buy from a reputable breeder.

Dalmatian - Dog Lover

DOG FAQ - Do Dalmatians make good family dogs?

Yes, Dalmatian can as long as they are properly trained and socialized. We are always a little concerned with toddlers and Dalmatians because the Dalmatian's tail never stops waging! It has been known to clear off a coffee table. It can also knock over an unsteady child. As with any dog, children should be taught to respect the dog and not pull on tails and ears! Never, NEVER leave a child unattended with any dog!

DOG FAQ - What is deafness in Dalmatians about?

Unfortunately about 8% of Dalmatian puppies are born bilaterally deaf (deaf in both ears). Deaf puppies do not normally make good pets. While some people have owned deaf dogs, the majority of people we have talked with said they would NEVER do it again. Another 22% of Dalmatian puppies are born unilaterally deaf (meaning they hear in only one ear). Unilaterally hearing puppies or unis as we call them, make wonderful pets but we do not believe they should be bred. Unis can hear but their directional hearing is compromised. Indoors most unis can compensate for the their lack of directional hearing because sound waves bounce off the walls of your home. Outdoors, in big open areas, they can hear the sound of your voice calling them, but would not be able to distinguish where the sound is coming from. By waving your arms when calling a uni outdoors, this problem is solved. Most people who own unis would not even know their dog had a hearing problem if the breeder had not told them! This is why hearing testing is so important in Dalmatians. Sometimes a uni can fool even the most experience breeder.

Dalmatian - Dog Lover

DOG FAQ - How long do Dalmatians live?

The average life expectancy of a Dalmatian is 11-13 years. Some have lived as long as 15-16 years. We have a 15+ year old that rules the roost!

Dalmatian - Dog Lover

DOG FAQ - Do Dalmatians shed?

Yes, they sure do! You won't see the spring and fall shed outs like in many other breeds. Instead, Dalmatians shed 24/7/365! The shedding can be minimized by regular brushing.

Dalmatian - Dog Lover

DOG FAQ - How big do Dalmatians get?

A Dalmatian's height can range from 19" to 24" at the shoulder. Males are generally taller than females. Because of the height range, their weight can range from 35 pounds to 65 pounds. Dalmatian is a lean, muscular dog. We have had 20" girls that weigh 35 pounds and a 23 3/4+" boys that weigh 65 pounds.

Dalmatian - Dog Lover

DOG FAQ - Do Dalmatians require obedience training?

They sure do! Dalmatians are very intelligent dogs and are happy to do whatever you ask of them. They also have a mind of their own and love to try to "out smart" their owner. Even if you already know how to train a dog, every puppy needs and deserves the socialization of a puppy kindergarten class and a basic obedience class. Training classes are also a great time to bond with your Dalmatian. We do not require you to enroll in puppy or obedience classes but we highly recommend it for a well socialized dog.

Dalmatian - Dog Lover

DOG FAQ - Are Dalmatians hyper?

No, a well bred Dalmatian is not hyper! But, Dalmatians are a very active breed. They were originally bred to run 20-25 miles a day with a horse and carriage. This trait has stayed with them over the years. Because of this, Dalmatians do require a great deal of exercise especially younger Dalmatians. A fenced-in yard is a necessity for every Dalmatians. If you don't have a fenced-in yard, plan on walking/running/biking your Dalmatian a couple of miles each day! A Dalmatian that does not get enough exercise will get bored and may become destructive.

Dalmatian - Dog Lover

DALMATIAN AND CHILDREN

The majority of Dalmatians like children and even love them. They are, however, not recommended for children under the age of eight since they enjoy them so much and because Dalmatians are so strong and exuberant they tend to knock the younginin the process. Please take that into consideration when looking for a pet for a toddler.

Dalmatian - Dog Lover

TRAINING

Dalmatians are generally described as intelligent, independent and fairly dominant dogs. Intelligence does not equal ease of training - smart dogs often have their own agenda and require motivational, positive training from the owner. training.

Many people believe that Dalmatians are stupid, and untrainable. Nothing could be further from the truth. They learn quickly, but when it comes to basic obedience, their favourite question is "why"? Training needs to be approached with enthusiasm and an open mind. Dalmatians respond to positive rewards rather than negative reinforcement.

Trained Dalmatians are a joy and excel at competitive obedience and sports such as flyball. Dalmatians have a natural sense of pack hierarchy and this is important to note, since the Dalmatian will need to dominate if it does not know its pack leader. Therefore a Dalmatian needs to know its human family is its pack, lead by the family. This is very easy to teach humanely and the lesson lasts a lifetime.

Dalmatian - Dog Lover