Frequently Asked Questions

Are Dalmatians hyper?
No, a well bred Dalmatian is not hyper!  But, Dalmatians are a very active breed.  They were originally bred to run 20-25 miles a day with a horse and carriage.  This trait has stayed with them over the years.  Because of this, Dalmatians do require a great deal of exercise especially younger Dals.  A fenced-in yard is a necessity for every Dal.  If you don't have a fenced-in yard, plan on walking/running/biking your Dal a couple of miles each day!  A Dalmatian that does not get enough exercise will get bored and may become destructive. 

Do Dalmatians require obedience training?
They sure do!  Dalmatians are very intelligent dogs and are happy to do whatever you ask of them.  They also have a mind of their own and love to try to "out smart" their owner.  Even if you already know how to train a dog, every puppy needs and deserves the socialization of a puppy kindergarten class and a basic obedience class.  Training classes are also a great time to bond with your dog.  We do not require you to enroll in puppy or obedience classes but we highly recommend it for a well socialized dog.

How big do Dalmatians get?
A Dalmatian's height can range from 19" to 24" at the shoulder.  Males are generally taller than females.  Because of the height range, their weight can range from 35 pounds to 65 pounds.  They are a lean, muscular dog.  We have had 20" girls that weigh 35 pounds and a 23 3/4+" boys that weigh 65 pounds.

Do Dalmatians shed?
Yup, they sure do!  You won't see the spring and fall shed outs like in many other breeds.  Instead, Dalmatians shed 24/7/365!  The shedding can be minimized by regular brushing. 

How long do Dalmatians live?
The average life expectancy of a Dalmatian is 11-13 years.  Some have lived as long as 15-16 years.  We have a 15+ year old that rules the roost!

What is deafness in Dalmatians about?
Unfortunately about 8% of Dalmatian pups are born bilaterally deaf (deaf in both ears).  Deaf pups do not normally make good pets.  While some people have owned deaf dogs, the majority of people we have talked with said they would NEVER do it again.  Another 22% of Dalmatian pups are born unilaterally deaf (meaning they hear in only one ear).  Unilaterally hearing pups or unis as we call them, make wonderful pets but we do not believe they should be bred.  Unis can hear but their directional hearing is compromised.  Indoors most unis can compensate for the their lack of directional hearing because sound waves bounce off the walls of your home.  Outdoors, in big open areas, they can hear the sound of your voice calling them, but would not be able to distinguish where the sound is coming from.  By waving your arms when calling a uni outdoors, this problem is solved.  Most people who own unis would not even know their dog had a hearing problem if the breeder had not told them!  This is why hearing testing is so important in Dalmatians.  Sometimes a uni can fool even the most experience breeder. 

What health concerns should I be aware of before adopting a Dalmatian?
To help eliminate deafness, we believe only bilaterally hearing dogs should be bred.  BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) testing should be done on all breeding stock and puppies.  For more information about BAER testing, please click here.  All breeding stock should be OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) clear of hip dysplasia.  It is also a good idea to have breeding stock cleared of any eye problems by CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation).  Any reputable breeder will be happy to provide proof of these tests to you.  Since Dalmatians have a tendency to form urinary stone and crystals, it is wise to ask about the history of the line you are dealing with.  However, just because a dog has formed stones (or crystals) in the past does not necessary throw that dog out of the breeding pool.  For more information about Dalmatians stones please check here.  Talk with your breeder in great lengths about these issues.  

Do Dalmatians make good family dogs?
Yes, they can as long as they are properly trained and socialized.  We are always a little concerned with toddlers and Dalmatians because the Dalmatian's tail never stops waging!  It has been known to clear off a coffee table.  It can also knock over an unsteady child.  As with any dog, children should be taught to respect the dog and not pull on tails and ears!  Never, NEVER leave a child unattended with any dog!

How much does a Dalmatian puppy cost?
You can expect to pay between $1,000 and $1,200 for a well-bred "pet" Dalmatian puppy.  Usually show quality dogs cost more.  Remember the old saying you get what you pay for.  When buying a Dalmatian or any dog for that matter, buy from a reputable breeder.  For more information on reputable breeders click here.

How do I go about adopting a Dalmatian?
If you are interested in one of our litters (or adult dogs), please contact us for a Puppy Questionnaire.  We will email, fax, or mail it to you.  Once you complete and return the questionnaire, we will want to talk with you.  We are very particular about where our puppies go and like to discuss the information provided on your questionnaire.  Our puppies and dogs are not sold on a first come, first serve basis.  We place our puppies and dogs according to who we believe will provide the best home/family.  Once pregnancy is confirmed, we ask for a deposit to make sure you are serious.  Believe it or not, we have had people back out the week before their puppy was ready to go home.  The deposit is usually $250 and applies to the adoption cost.  If you decide not to get a pup, the money is refunded once a new family is found for the puppy you decided not to adopt.

Have another question?  Please feel free to contact us.

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