Dalmatian Puppies: Pictures, Adoption Tips, and More!

This intelligent, dignified, and cant-miss breed makes a wonderful pet. But before you commit, check out these Dalmatian adoption tips, including what to consider before bringing one of these sweet pups home.

Dalmatian Adoption Tips

Male or Female?

Both female and male Dalmatian puppies are adorable, capturing your heart with their charm right away. However, you have to consider what they’re going to grow into. Male dogs are going to be larger, stronger, and weigh more than their female counterparts. They may also demonstrate a more willful personality whereas females are a bit smaller and lighter. Though they don’t match the strength of a male dog, they can be quite powerful. On average, you’re looking at a Dalmatian that reaches a height between 19 and 24 inches and weighs between 45 and 70 pounds when full-grown. According to the American Kennel Club, these dogs have a life expectancy of 11 to 13 years.

Personality

Both male and female Dalmatians are known for being extremely affectionate with their families. They might be good with other dogs but not always (the same thing goes with small children). You can count on your Dalmatian to be a good watchdog. They’re not particularly fond of strangers and prefer to direct their affection toward the human family they know and love. They’re athletic and don’t just lounge around lazily all day, though they do prefer to be accompanied indoors.

Rescues vs. Breeders

You have two options when it comes to bringing a Dalmatian home. You can either adopt or you can buy a Dalmatian. Unfortunately, not everyone researches thoroughly before bringing a Dalmatian home and ends up surrendering these dogs to rescue groups. Often, adopting from a rescue group means that you’re going to have to pick up the slack where the previous owners left off. However, this isn’t always the case. It’s very possible that previous owners simply couldn’t take care of the dog any longer due to their personal circumstances and not the dog’s needs or behavior.

The other option you have is to buy a Dalmatian puppy from a reputable breeder. A reputable breeder is going to show you a certificate from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF), which certifies that your Dalmatian does not have any existing eye diseases. Additionally, you should also receive a certification that confirms your Dalmatian has normal hips. When working with a reputable breeder, they will also ensure that you know your Dalmatian puppy doesn’t have any hearing problems. On average, the cost to purchase a Dalmatian ranges between $500 and $1700.

What to Consider Before Bringing a Dalmatian Puppy Home

Nutrition Needs

Before committing to bringing a Dalmatian puppy home, consider what your pup will need. These dogs require high-quality dog food that’s appropriate for the different stages they’re going to experience through life (ranging from puppyhood up until their senior stage). You’ll have to stay on top of how many calories they consume and ensure that they maintain a healthy weight. Although you can use treats while training your Dalmatian puppy, you have to make sure that you don’t exceed 10% of their daily caloric intake (the same goes for table scraps!).

Social and Exercise Needs

These dogs don’t like being alone. They’re extremely affectionate and you must know that you’re going to get hair all over your clothes, your couches, and your bed (if you allow your Dalmatian puppy into your bedroom). Additionally, Dalmatians need regular exercise. If you have a large backyard, you can play fetch and have them burn off some of that energy but if you like to jog or bike, you can also take your Dalmatian along with you. They’ll enjoy the time spent with you and they’ll be getting the physical activity they need. However, don’t take your Dalmatian puppy on any long bike rides or jogs until after they’ve reached at least two years of age. They need some time to develop first.

Veterinary Care

Like with any dog, you’re going to need to visit the veterinarian periodically to check on the health of your puppy so you can remain proactive as they grow and develop. If you purchase from a reputable breeder, you’re going to have all of the documentation you need to provide your veterinarian with. Nevertheless, accidents happen, and some dogs develop illnesses as they age. Consider purchasing a pet insurance policy so that you never have to hesitate about getting veterinary care for your Dalmatian pup.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/animalinfo