The Dalmatian
Posted by admin on July 21st, 2009The Dalmatian is probably one of the most recognized breeds in the world today. Dalmatians belong to the Utility group and, due to the publication in 1956 of the book 101 Dalmations, have become very popular pets and show dogs.
The American Kennel Club standard states that the dog should be more square, as long as it is tall at the withers. Shoulder should be well laid back with the elbow falling directly under the tip of the shoulder blade. Rear angulation should match the front with the stifle “well” bent indicating good angulation in the rear. The feet are round and compact with well-arched toes. The nails are either white and/or the same color as the spots. The ears are thin, tapering toward the tip, set fairly high and carried close to the head. That description is quite detailed.
As a breed Dalmatians are easy to train as they have a willing nature and an eagerness to please. When they have done something sucessfully then excessive praise is essential. The Dalmatian, however, can learn bad habits, as well as good habits, very quickly so keep in mind their determination, and, be aware of the dominant nature of the male.
Dalmatians are a very old breed dating back to 2000 BC and are often thought to be the very first type of dog for which man made deliberate attempts to selectively breed for specific characteristics. These characteristics were at first appearance, then other attributes such as stamina, endurance, and health. The result is a very prolific and long-lived breed of striking appearance, generally free from ailments common to other dogs such as hip dysplasia (almost unknown in purebred Dalmatians). Most of their health problems result from the onset of old age; the average Dalmatian lives between 11 and 13 years, although some can live as long as 17 to 18 years. In their late teens, both males and females may suffer bone spurs and arthritic conditions. An exception to Dalmatians’ generally good health is a genetic disposition towards deafness.
Especially in America the Dalmatian has had a long history with firefighters and are now common firehouse mascots. The connection with firefighters had a more practical use during the time when fire engines were pulled by horses. As Dalmatians and horses are very compatible it was relatively easy to train the dog to run in front of fire engines and help clear a path. On occasions the dogs were used as rescue dogs to locate victims in burning structures.
The Dalmatian was often considered to be a good watchdog and were used as such within firehouses to protect valuable equipment. Fire engines used to be drawn by fast and powerful horses, a tempting target for thieves, so Dalmatians were kept in the firehouse as deterrence to theft. The horses have long since gone, but the Dalmatians, by tradition, have stayed. As a result, in the United States, Dalmatians are commonly known as firehouse dogs. Dalmatians are still chosen by many firefighters as pets, in honor of their heroism in the past.
Height: Dogs 19-24 inches
Bitches 19-24 inches
Weight: 35-50 pounds
Tags: Dalmatian, dog breeds