Different breeds of dogs.

DALMATIAN

 by Dennis Fisher.

This article is one of a great many articles written by Dennis Fisher about a very wide variety of subjects concerning different  dogs, such as obedience training, breeding, showing, health matters, training problems and other subjects.  All these articles appear on Dennis Fisher's websites.   Visit  http://www.allaboutgermanshepherddogs.com the site that has been set up specifically for German Shepherd Dog enthusiasts, or http://www.freedogadvice.com  if you interested in a breed   other than German Shepherd Dogs

The Dalmatian is known as the “coach dog”.  The reason for this is because in the early 1900’s it was considered fashionable and prestigious for gentry to have a Dalmatian or a number of Dalmatians follow behind their carriage.  Because of its agility and strength it was also used as a hunting dog.

It is sturdy, medium-sized breed approximately 24 inches in height.  Good natured, friendly and affectionate it can make an excellent family pet, but it is a breed that does require a great deal of attention.

The Dalmatian is definitely not a breed that be ignored for long periods during the day and left to its own devices.

Because of the popularity of the film “A 101 Dalmatians” there was a tremendous surge of interest in the breed.  A great many people, with little knowledge of the breed, were tempted to buy Dalmatian puppies.

 It is certainly most attractive in appearance and a well-marked Dalmatian puppy can be quite irresistible.  But many people who became  first-time Dalmatian owners did not realize ownership demanded certain responsibilities.

They were unaware  it  would be necessary to spend a great deal  of time with the animal, probably  much more time than with other more sedate and less active breeds.

As a result many were disappointed to find the delightful, lovable puppy they had bought became very destructive adult. A number of people lost interest in the breed and found other homes for their Dalmatian.

The Dalmatian is an intelligent animal.  It certainly does respond to training. But firm handling is necessary.  I can recall, many years ago, having a male Dalmatian, owned by an elderly  lady in one of my training classes.

The dog responded quite well to commands, and was quite obedient but I can recall forming the distinct impression that this dog had a mind of his own.  On occasion he showed no interest in listening to commands.  There was very little his owner could do to ensure her commands were carried out.

The Dalmatian is certainly a handsome animal.  The background is white and there are distinctive black spots distributed all over the body.

 ``````````            The standard requires these back spots should be as round as possible, distributed as evenly as possibly over the entire body and the black should not take the form of large black patches.   There should also be regular black spots on the ears as well.