Dalmatian Dogs Review

Breed Name:	Dalmatian (aka Firehouse Dog, Spotted Coach Dog)
Country of Origin:	Croatia,Egypt
Average Lifespan:	10 - 12 years
Size:	Large (55–65 lbs, 50–60 cm)
Breed Classification:	Sporting
Coat:	Dalmatians’ distinct white coat with black spots is their claim to fame Born white, their spots appear as they grow Sleek, smooth coat that is short, dense and fine
Characteristics:	Extremely social and loyal Quiet and courteous Very active and needs lots of exercise and room to play Gets along well with people and children, if socialized from a puppy Known for their intelligence and survival instinct
Breed Standards:	Dalmatians may have black or liver coloured spots. Any other colour is unacceptable in the show ring. The breed is muscular yet elegant. The length from the neck to the tail should be the same as the length from the withers to the feet, creating a square shape body. The feet are round, with well arched toes. The tail is thick, tapering and slightly curved.
History:	The history of Dalmatians is hotly disputed by researchers and there is a great deal of disagreement over the origins of the breed. It is not certain where the dog was originally bred or how long ago. Some claim the breed is thousands of years old, others believe the Dalmatian was bred in 12th or 13th century Croatia. It is certain that at this time, the breed was used as a guardian of the Dalmatia and Croatia borders. In 19th century London, the dogs were used to guard horses-drawn coaches, hence the nickname Spotted Coach Dog. To this day, Dalmatians tend to have an affinity for horses. When firefighters used horse-drawn carriages, the Dalmatian would run ahead clearing a path and guiding the horses. When the switch was made to fire engines, Dalmatians remained with the service to locate victims and even guard the firehouse. The Dalmatian remains a popular breed among firefighters due to its’ heroic and loyal past, and is now a mascot of the industry. The breed has also been used as a ratter, for hunting vermin in firehouses, stables and homes.
Fun Facts:	The novel, One Hundred and One Dalmatians by Dodie Smith created a huge buzz about the breed. Two subsequent Walt Disney films of the same name made Dalmatians one of the most desired breeds worldwide (remember, Dalmatians require plenty of exercise and tend to be heavy shedders). Another interesting fact, is that Dalmatians are the only breed of dog with natural spots.

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Dalmatian nature behavior and training

Dalmatians are a sensitive and loyal breed, making them great watchdogsHowever, while they are good with Children they may be too energetic for toddlers They also require much human affection and a lot of exercise.

Some important facts and remedies that you should be knowing as a Dalmatian Dog owner.

1. 
   
   1) Vaccinate your dalmatian, and follow up with yearly booster vaccinations to maintain the dogs immunity to diseases. Worm your adult dog every three months, and consult your veterinarian about flea-control products.
   
   
   
2. 2) Feed your dalmatian high-grade dog food. The first ingredient should be meat if you want a quality product. Crude protein should be no less than 22 percent on average, and crude fat no less than 20 percent. The fiber content should be 4 percent or less. Adult dalmatians eat 3 to 6 cups of food a day, in one or two servings. Puppies should have 2 cups a day, in three or four servings.
   
   
   
3. 3) Socialize your dalmatian with other dogs, cats and people, from an early age. They can be timid or hyper without proper socialization.
   
   
   
   
4. 4) Train your dalmatian at an early age. They are bursting with energy and enthusiasm, and they need to be taught control. Positive feedback works best with this breed, as they are prone to sulk.
   
   
   
5. 6) Brush your dalmatian daily to handle all the excess shedding. However, dalmatians are usually quite clean and have virtually no doggy smell, so they require minimal bathing.
   
   
   
6. 7) Trim nails every two to three weeks.
   
   
   
   
7. 8) Check for fleas and ticks during the warmer months. Dalmatians seem to collect them.
   
   
   
   
8. 9) Remember that dalmatians do not do well in cold temperatures because of their sensitive skin. Bring them inside when it starts to get cold.
   
   
   
   
9. 10) Keep in mind that male dalmatians grow to 22 to 24 inches when mature; females reach heights between 20 and 22 inches. Mature dalmations can weigh up to over 55 pounds.
   
   
   
10. 11) Know that dalmatians can suffer from deafness and should be tested at six weeks of age, prior to purchase. Deaf dalmatians may be aggressive. Dalmatians are also prone to urinary stones and skin allergies. Talk to the breeder to find out what type of screening has been done for these health problems.
    
    
    
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    12) Expect your dalmation to live for 10 to 14 years.
    
    
    
    
    
    

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Dalmatian training tips and tricks

Dalmatian training programs are designed to suit the dogs natural characteristics of a companion dog. Dalmatians seek affection but only from the people they trust – and they tend to take a while before trusting strangers.
As with any dog breed, personality differences can be noticed with Dals – some area easier to train, some will give you a hard time. Here are a few of the most common Dalmatian training tips that will help you shape your dog into a real friend and companion:


• Patience is important when training a Dalmatian – they are quite independent and you might have to go through a routine several times before they start learning – not because they lack the intelligence, but because they tend to have their own way at first.


• Although they mature from a physical point of view relatively fast, they still act like puppies until they are about one and a half to two years old. And if you are looking for a good Dalmatian training tip , here it is: do not expect maturity from your dog until he reaches 2 years of age, and, even then, dont restrict his playful nature completely.


• Dals are active dogs, so make sure to offer them training routines that involve physical exercise – they love it!


• Dalmatian housebreaking training is not very difficult and the dog learns quickly what is allowed and disallowed around the house.


• Chewing toys are a must with the Dalmatian. Since they are in a puppy state for longer than most dogs, you should also try to adapt your training methods to this. Start the Dalmatian training program early, otherwise the puppy will turn into a very independent adult Dalmatian that will be a lot harder to train.


• Some Dalmatians do well in tracking and obedience trials, but you have to find the ones with the proper personality if you are thinking of training them professionally. The road trial, a sport where the dog accompanies a horse or a horse-drawn coach as an adornment and as protection is also a favorite Dalmatian activity.


• Teaching your dog obedience training commands is not different from other dog breeds, but keep in mind that you are dealing with and active and stubborn breed, and patience and creativity have to be combined if the dog-training program aims to be a success.


• When taken care of properly, these dogs can live up to 16 years. Proper Dalmatian training will ensure a better life, both for you and your spotted pet.

I have compiled a few simple steps for you to train your puppy or a adult dog as well

"Teaching the “Puppy Sit”

With your puppy at your left side, place your right hand on the collar and your
left hand on your puppy’s rump just above her tail. “Roll” your puppy’s haunches under with a tuck of your left hand. As you’re rolling your puppy’s rump under, gently apply upward and backward pressure with the collar. As you’re placing the puppy into the position, say “SIT.” When the puppy is there, cheerfully say “Good SIT!”

Do not push down on your puppy’s pelvis and never use force when teaching SIT! Your puppy’s rump should roll right under her as you slide your hand down and over her tail. If you curl your hand gently under her buttocks while you do this, she will automatically roll her haunches under for you.


Teaching the “Puppy Down”

Begin with your puppy in a SIT by your left side. Place your left hand on your puppy’s upper shoulders and back, with your right hand underneath your puppy’s front legs, palms up. With a sweeping motion, move your right hand forward as you gently push your puppy’s front feet forward and out from underneath him. While doing this, apply gentle, steady pressure downward on your puppy’s shoulders as your puppy slides softly into the DOWN position. As you place the puppy into the position, say “DOWN.” When the puppy is there, cheerfully say “Good DOWN!”


Teaching Your Puppy “Follow-the-Leader”
(Skills and Leash Etiquette )

At this point it isn’t important for your puppy to walk directly at the HEEL position. It is more important for her to learn to happily accept walking on a leash somewhere near you. This means no excessive pulling or dragging
behind. Begin by calling your puppy’s name and saying, “Let’s go!” Pat your leg, encourage your puppy with your voice, and praise her for following. When your puppy becomes distracted, gently tug on the leash, saying “No,” then say “Here!” When she responds, looks at you, and follows you, praise her heartily! If yourpuppy is a puller, turn away from her to get her attention.You may have to make several turns in each session to teach her to stay by your side. Do not expect her to hold a true HEEL at this time in her life. Just concentrate on having her learn to look for you. If your puppy bites at the leash when you walk, give her a toy to carry on the walk. This will avoid a “tug-of-war” situation. You can also spray a bitters spray on the leash before each walk to discourage her from putting the leash in her mouth.

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7 dog tricks to teach your Dalmatian

Let’s face it: Not all dog breeds are as smart as Dalmatians. Because of this well-known fact, if you own a Dalmatian then you should take advantage of his or her cleverness and teach your dog a few tricks when you have some spare time.

If you’ve been hoping to teach your Dalmatian a few fun tricks, here are the top seven fun and unique tricks your Dalmatian can learn easily:

1. Roll over

Have your Dalmatian lie down on his stomach, and then stand over your dog and hold a treat by his nose, then move the treat around behind your dog so that he eventually lies on his side and rolls over.
 

2. Twirl

Grab your dog’s favourite treat and then have him stand on his hind legs and ask him to “twirl” by leading his nose around to the right with the treat so that he walks in a circle. When the treat comes back full circle promptly praise him and give him his treat.
 

3. Take a bow

Take a treat and hold it down towards the floor under your dog’s nose. As soon as he reaches down to get the treat put your hand under his belly to hold his rear end upwards, and then hold him in that position and say “take a bow.” Try to hold him there for a second before giving him the treat.
 

4. Sing

Make eye contact with your Dalmatian and say “sing,” then start howling in a high-pitched voice and keep doing it until your dog howls along with you.

5. Turn off the light

Hold a treat to the light switch and command him to “turn off light” (or even “light” if that’s easier), and then when your Dalmatian jumps up to get the treat make sure his paws hit the switch. As soon as the lights are turned off reward and praise him, and do this repeatedly until he gets it.
 

6. Play dead

Have your dog sit or stand, and then point your finger and him and pull your hand up while yelling “BANG!” Try to get your dog to lie down on his side with his head down and then praise him accordingly.
 

7. Hide your eyes

Make your dog sit down and then with a treat in your hand tell your dog to “hide your eyes.” First try physically lifting his paw over his muzzle and then reward him once he figures it out. 

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Guest Author: Maria Rainier is a freelance writer and blogger for First in Education where she’s recently written about onlinemathprograms along with a piece on electrical engineering degree programs. In her spare time, she enjoys yoga, traveling, and working with origami.

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Dalmatian Dogs Very Unique Very Distinct

Dalmatian dogs are often called the black and white spotted dogs as they are found with distinctive black and white spots all over their body.
These spots are also the unique identification symbols for this breed as no other purebreed dog has the distinctive Dalmatian spots. Dalmatians as believed by majority of people have basically originated from Dalmatia, a province in Croatia. Dalmations are said to be one of the oldest purebreds in the world. The average life expectancy of this breed is 10-12 years.

History
The history of the Dalmatian is an uncertain and highly debated topic. Most of the people believe that the breed has originated in Dalmatia, a province in Croatia; however there are certain people who believe that Dalmatian may have some links with Egypt as Dalmatian has been seen in Egyptian cave paintings, running alongside chariots. A chapel in Florence has a fresco of 14th century which also had a pictorial representation of a dog identical to Dalmatian. Whatever its origins, one thing is for sure that the Dalmatian is an ancient breed which has come through the years virtually unchanged. Dalmatians were also used as a dog of war, a hunter, a retriever, a bird dog, and a carriage dog. They were also used as a watch dogs and firehouse mascot.

Appearance
Adult Dalmatians are muscular and agile. They are fit for all kinds of lifestyle. They are of about 19 to 24 in height and 45 to 70 lbs. in weight, when they are fully grown. They have short fine furry coat which they shed all the year around. It is not woolly or silky rather sleek, glossy and healthy in appearance. They have a well proportionate body and arched neck line. Their chest is deep, voluminous and of moderate width, having good coil of rib without being tub shaped. They have strong and sturdy bone structure. However, the most distinct feature in their appearance is their black and white spot which make them most popular.

Personality
Dalmatians are well behaved and polite. But are very protective and can be great watch dogs. They love to jog for miles. Loving, devoted and sociable, a Dalmatian is full of stamina, friendly and affectionate. Dalmatian dogs become good playmates for children and get along well with other dogs or household pets. They need consistent training and respond well to positive reinforcement. They love to be praised when they have proved themselves worthy of it. 

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Dalmatian orign and complete review

Dalmatians have plenty of stamina and are extremely energetic. They are very playful and active, and are well known for their hyper nature. They do not like to be left alone with nothing to do all day.
The Dalmatian is a lovable and devoted dog. He is happiest when with his owner, and will become depressed if left alone for too long.

The Dalmatian is intelligent but he is also stubborn. He requires proper and consistent training and should be well socialized. However, when trained well, Dalmatians are incredibly obedient and make ideal watchdogs.

Dalmatians are not a good choice for first time dog owners, or for those who have young children. However, for those who are compatible with this breed, the Dalmatian makes a fantastic companion that is a devoted and affectionate pal.

The History of Dalmatians:

Although Dalmatians are commonly believed to be British because of their popularity among English aristocrats particularly during the 1800’s, the actual origin of the Dalmatian is still debated by historians.

Some historians believe that Dalmatians were established in northern India and were eventually brought to Europe by gypsy caravans in the Middle ages to Dalmatia, Yugoslavia. Others think that the Dalmatian breed developed in Greece or Egypt before coming to Europe.

Despite their origin, one thing remains certain; Dalmatians were given their official breed name in England. Other names that the Dalmatian was given include:

• The English Coach Dog
• The Carriage Dog
• The Plum Pudding Dog
• The Fire House Dog
• The Spotted Dick

The Dalmatian was used as a shepherd, draft dog, ratting dog, and a guard dog for coaches and carriages. However, their main purpose was to run alongside or under horse drawn carriages. In order to live up to their job, Dalmatians had to have a huge amount of energy and stamina.

Today the primary job of Dalmatians is to be wonderful family companions; a job they do very well.

Dalmatians – Ever Busy And Ever On the Move

Dalmatians are part of the Gun Dog or Non-Sporting Dog group. They are a tall dog and stand 22-24 inches at the shoulders, and weigh between 45-70 pounds. They are extremely active and are high energy dogs. Therefore, these dogs require plenty of exercise and are not ideal apartment dogs. Their daily exercise should include at least 2 long walks (20 minutes or more), plus the ability to run around free in the yard and playtime.

Because they can be quite hyper, Dalmatians are not good to have in homes with really small children as they can be easily, accidentally knocked down by the dog. However, aside from that, the Dalmatian gets along well with children and loves to play with them. They even tolerate other family pets well. The only time other pets may present a problem is if you have a male dog and a male Dalmatian. They may show aggression towards each other.

Dalmatians require proper obedience training. Consistent and persistent training is the only way to ensure the dog listens to your commands and doesn’t become stubborn and ignore you. Although the Dalmatian requires plenty of training and socialization, they generally like people, and are not aggressive towards strangers.

The coat of a Dalmatian is extremely easy to care for because the Dalmatian does a good job keeping himself clean. He doesn’t have the characteristic doggy odor and avoids getting dirty. That being said, Dalmatians do shed their sleek, short haired coat twice a year. During these shedding seasons be prepared for plenty of dog fur around the home.

The life expectancy of a Dalmatian is 11-13 years. This breed is prone to a few hereditary problems such as skin allergies and hip dyspepsia. However, their biggest hereditary health issue is deafness. Approximately 10-12 percent of all Dalmatians are deaf. Therefore, all puppies should be tested at birth, and your dog should be monitored for this condition throughout his life.

Dalmatians are wonderful and devoted companions and are the perfect pal for the active individual or family.

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