BREED: Dalmatian
ORIGIN: Central Mediterranean Basin
HISTORY: Believed to originate from the Mediterranean region he was thus named either because his birthplace was Dalmatia or because he was used in this region during the Balkan war. The Dalmatian was popular at the Vatican during the seventeenth century and kept by English aristocracy in the eighteenth century. In America this breed was adopted by firemen as their mascot. In 1961 they played the leading role in Walt Disney’s film “101 Dalmatians” which made them even more popular.
DESCRIPTION: This medium sized dog stands 54 to 61cm high and weighs from 24 to 27kg. It’s typical white coat is spotted with round, well defined, well distributed black spots in the black variety and liver brown spots in the brown variety. Spots on the body should be slightly bigger than on the head, tail and extremities.
CHARACTER: The Dalmatian is a very social dog and thrives on human companionship. They are sensitive and should not be left alone for extended periods of time. If they become lonely or bored they become depressed and destructive. The Dalmatian is not recommended for homes with small children due to their exuberant nature. They will get along with pets they have been raised with, but display aggression to strange dogs. This breed is aloof with strangers and makes excellent watchdogs, only barking when absolutely necessary. They have the ability to work as vermin hunters, hounds, guard dogs, as well as being a loyal companion.
WHAT TO CONSIDER ON ACQUIRING A DALMATIAN: This breed cannot manage in extreme weather conditions. They are prone to fungi from moist grass and soil. Health issues that affect this breed are deafness, bladder and kidney stones, skin and food allergies, and hip dysplacia.