All You Need to Know About Dalmatian Puppies

Dalmatian puppies are as recognizable as they are cute. They were made famous in animated film, and are also connected with fire trucks. The reason for this association goes back to a time when fires were attended to by pumper wagons lead by teams of horses. Because dalmatians were so good with horses, firemen kept them in the station at night, both for company and to deter horse thieves. Because of this tradition, many fire stations still keep a dalmatian as a mascot. Yet the breed also makes a loyal family pet. Dalmatians generally live from 10 to 12 years, grow to 24 inches tall and can weigh as much as 65 lbs.

  1. History

    • The exact history of the breed is unknown. Dalmatians get their name from Dalmatia, a region once part of Croatia. Yet breeders argue about where the breed actually originated, since similar spotted dogs also lived in Africa, Asia and other areas of Europe. What is known that dalmatians have been around for a long time, because there are pictures of spotted dogs in ancient Egyptian relief sculptures. It is also believed that dalmatians are related to the pointer breed.

    Choosing a Breeder

    • Before choosing a puppy, you must find the right breeder. It is extremely important when choosing a dalmatian puppy that you buy from a reputable breeder. Dalmatian deafness is on the rise, with an estimate of 10 to 12 percent of puppies born deaf. A reputable breeder will never sell you a deaf puppy, but you might get one from a pet shop or an irresponsible breeder. You can find dalmatian breeders at dog shows, in dog magazines and online. When visiting a breeder, make sure the accommodations are clean. Ask to see the puppy's parents to be sure they look healthy.

    Choosing Your Puppy

    • Watch puppies play and interact for a while before picking them up and cuddling them. You want a puppy that is friendly, energetic and playful. Don't choose a puppy that is fearful of people. Fearfulness in a puppy does not bode well for a well-behaved adult dog. Make sure the puppy you choose is affectionate, and look the puppy over to make sure the coat, eyes, ears and teeth look clean and healthy.

    Health and Obedience

    • Make sure you find out about worming and vaccinations the puppy has had. If possible, have your vet check out the puppy before purchase. Once you buy a puppy, keep regular vet appointments and keep up-to-date on all vaccinations. Also, make sure to spay or neuter your dalmatian puppy at the age your vet advises. Keep the puppy's ears and eyes clean, perform regular brushing and make sure to clip the puppy's nails. Also important for the health and well-being of your dalmatian is exercise and obedience. Make sure your dalmatian has lots of room to run, or take regular walks. Consult books or pet stores for dog obedience training and classes. It's never to early to start teaching your puppy basic skills, and professional obedience training can begin once the puppy is 4 to 6 months old.