A Dalmatian
Photo: Dalmatiner24.eu, Public domain · source (opens in a new tab)

Dalmatian

Also called Carriage Dog, Dalmatinac, Firehouse Dog, Plum Pudding Dog and Spotted Coach Dog

  • Great with kids
  • Needs space
  • Needs lots of exercise
  • Sheds a lot

The Dalmatian is a medium-sized breed that originated in Croatia. They have a short, dense coat, and come in a variety of colors. They are an active and energetic breed, and need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They are loyal and devoted to their owners, and make good family companions.

Weight
55–71 lb (25–32 kg)
Height at the shoulder
21–24 in (54–62 cm)
Life span
11–13 years
Exercise
About 90 minutes a day
Coat
Short, Smooth
Origin
Dalmatia, Croatia (16th-18th century)

Traits

Family and friends

  • Children: Good with children
  • Other dogs: Good with other dogs
  • Strangers: Polite with strangers

Home and activity

  • Energy: Very energetic
  • Apartment living: Needs space
  • Barking: Barks a little
  • Training: Fairly easy to train

Care

  • Grooming: Little grooming
  • Shedding: Sheds heavily
  • Drooling: Hardly drools

Temperament

Active Dignified Friendly Intelligent Loyal Outgoing

Coat colours

White with black spots and white with liver spots

Males and females

MeasureMalesFemales
Weight 55–71 lb (25–32 kg) 55–71 lb (25–32 kg)
Height 22–24 in (56–62 cm) 21–24 in (54–60 cm)

Recognized by

American Kennel Club (AKC), Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC), Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), The Kennel Club (UK) (KC), New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC) and United Kennel Club (UKC)


Caring for a Dalmatian

Find pet services near you that suit this breed.

Veterinarians

Check-ups and vaccinations through its 11–13 years.

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Dog walkers

Needs about 90 minutes of exercise a day.

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Dog trainers

Can be stubborn: a trainer helps from the start.

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Dog daycares

Sociable and lively: daycare keeps it busy while you work.

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Breeds of a similar size

All large breeds
A Chow Chow
Large

Chow Chow

Non-Sporting Group

  • Weight:44–71 lb (20–32 kg)
  • Life span:12–15 years
An Akita
Large

Akita

Working Group

  • Weight:77–132 lb (35–60 kg)
  • Life span:10–14 years
An Alaskan Malamute
Large

Alaskan Malamute

Working Group

  • Weight:71–86 lb (32–39 kg)
  • Life span:10–14 years
An American Bulldog
Large

American Bulldog

Foundation Stock Service

  • Weight:55–110 lb (25–50 kg)
  • Life span:10–12 years

Sources

Breed details from The Dog API (opens in a new tab).