Dalmatian Dog Breed Information
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10 to 12 years
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Pocket Friendly *
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Star
Superstar
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Rare
Easy to get
Introduction
When one thinks of a quirky looking dog, a Dalmatian comes straight into the mind. These lovable, large sized white dogs are one of the best known and well recognised dogs in the world. Adorable to look at and with an aura of a Mascot, Dalmatians were one of the first breeds that former President George Washington bred himself.
Dalmatians gained popularity after they were featured in the Disney movies 101 and 102 Dalmatians. Some of the famous celebrities such as Marlon Brando, Paula Abdul, Gloria Estefan, Melanie Griffith, Marc Jacobs, Yves St. Laurent and Michael J Fox are the proud owners of Dalmatians.
If you are a proud owner of this energetic breed or if you are planning to get a Dalmatian as a family pet, you are making an exciting decision. We bring to you all the aspects that you will have to keep in mind before getting a Dalmatian so that you are able to provide an environment that develops a healthy dog and a long lasting companionship.
History
Though their origins are vague, many historians link the origins of the breed back to ancient Egypt where ancient cave paintings depict a white spotted dog accompanying the warriors and the farmers. Spotted dogs are also known to have travelled with the nomadic bands of gypsies, however they obtained their name in Dalmatia, a province on the eastern shore of Croatia.
In ancient pictures and paintings in England, Dalmatians were developed as coaching dogs i.e. dogs that would accompany people who rode in coaches and protect the horses and the travellers from any danger and make way for the coach especially in crowded streets . Carriage dogs were also bred as war dogs and guard dogs but gained more popularity as a coach dog
In the United States, Dalmatians have become a mascot for Firehouses. In 1882 an unofficial standard for the breed was introduced by Vero Shaw. The breed’s unique coat became popular and was distributed widely over the continent.
Unique Aspects
One of the most unique features of a Dalmatian are the unique spots. Dalmatian puppies are not born with spots. As they mature, the spots become more prominent. For some dogs, the spots may be scattered, while for others the entire body will be covered in spots. The Dalmatians have a lot of spots, even at the insides of their mouth.
Dalmatians are blessed with a stocky body and strong muscles. The strong muscular body helps the dogs run with ease and does not tire them at all. Dalmatians are also known to be selective listeners and extremely independent and stubborn in nature.
Another unique aspect of the Dalmatian is their weak urinary tract and high susceptibility of developing bladder stones. Pet parents to a Dalmatian will have to be careful about the diet that they give to their Dalmatian and also ensure that their dog is taken out to relieve himself / herself often so as to flush out all the toxins from the system.
Fun Trivia
Dalmatians became a rage soon after the introduction of the cartoon series of 101 Dalmatians. There has been no looking back ever since then, they have just garnered popularity ever since. Getting home a Dalmatian is like bringing home your very own celebrity. Here are some of the famous celebrities and movie and brands that you share your little and agile celebrity with
Movie Character
Whenever we talk about movies featuring Dalmatians the first name that crops to the mind is the 101 Dalmatian. After all how many dogs get a movie title on their name. After the grand success of the Disney series by the same name. This handsome breed played the protagonist in both the 101 and 102 Dalmatians. In addition to this they are almost synonym with Anheuser Busch brand, the beer wagon always has a Dalmatian coach dog with it at all times.
Celebrity Dalmatian owners
Dalmatians are a rage across the world and the celebrities are no exception. This includes a prolific list of Martha Washington, wife of George Washington it is believed that he brought the breed to the United States. In addition to this Melissa Joan Hart of Sabrina the teenage witch fame also has a Dalmatian.
Vital Stats:
Dog Breed Group: Utility Dogs
Height: 20-24 Inches
Weight: 22-25 Kg
Life Span: 10 to 12 years
Pros
- Loveable and quirky looking
- Energy bundles and love to play
- Excellent watch dog
Cons
- Need specialized food for urinary tract
- Has to be trained right from puppyhood
- Needs regular exercise