The Dalmatian is medium sized breed that is active and alert. Their diverse history as a working dog makes them an athletic and enthusiastic pet.

Physical Characteristics

• Distinctively spotted coat with pure white ground color
• Spots are dense black or brown
• Muscular, medium-sized
• Coat: Short, hard, dense hair
• Nose can be black or brown to match spots
• Eyes can be dark brown, amber or blue
• Height: 19-23 inches
• Weight: 55 pounds
• Average lifespan: 12-14 years

Temperament

• Playful, sensitive, loyal, enthusiastic
• Interaction with people: Good with mature children; not recommended for toddlers
• Interaction with animals: Good with other pets; may be aggressive toward other dogs
• Level of attention needed: Needs significant human interaction and attention
• Training: Becomes timid without enough socialization

At Home

• Not recommended for apartments
• Needs long, daily walk
• Needs average-sized yard

Grooming

• Heavy shedder twice a year
• Frequent brushing recommended

Brief History

• Originated in former Yugoslavia, possibly India/Balkans
• Developed as a working dog (now solely a companion)
• Bred to run alongside horse-drawn carriages
• Became popular as a carriage dog in the 1800s
• Jobs have included mascot for firemen, war sentinel, circus performer, vermin hunter, hound, shepherd and guard dog

Fido's Facts

• Famous from the Disney movie "101 Dalmatians"
• Have large litters, sometimes up to 15 pups
• Puppies are born without spots
• Famous for being the "Firehouse Dog"