Click to Skip Ahead
One image probably comes to mind when you think about a classic Dalmatian – a white dog with black spots. After all, this is classically how they’re portrayed in movies and likely the most common version you see out and about.
But you might have yet to learn about this spotted dog as they come in six different color varieties per the AKC. Here we’re going to go over the different color variations along with some other pretty nifty facts about the breed itself.
The 6 Dalmatian Colors
1. White & Black
White and black is the most prevalent color a Dalmatian has in their genetics. Classically, they have pure white coats with black spots and dots all around.
2. White & Liver
Due to recessive genes inherited from both parents, your Dalmatian puppy can also have liver spots. This is the second most common color and carries dark brownish-red tones. It is less traditional and sure to turn heads!
3. White & Orange
White and orange is a very rare color combination for Dalmatians. This color combination is very similar to a hound dog, but the pattern variation is much different. The orange tends to be more rusty colored.
4. White & Lemon
A lemon and white Dalmatian might look like they have freckles! Sometimes, it’s hard for the naked eye to distinguish the difference between orange and lemon.
5. White, Black, & Tan
What is very interesting is that Dalmatians can have a tricolor pattern. The first is white, black, and tan. Often, these Dalmatians look as if they’re faded in certain spots, giving the coat a very creative overall look.
6. White, Liver, & Tan
In addition to the above tricolor pattern, they can also be white, liver, and tan. This is an even more diluted color frame, and it looks just as interesting! This is one of the rarest coat colors of all.
Additional Colors
The above colors are the only ones mentioned by the AKC. However, there are other coat colors as well. They include:
- Mosaic
- Brindle
- Trindle
- Two-Tone
Dalmatian Breed Overview
Now that you know more about the coat colors, we can get into the good stuff. If you’re very attracted to the Dalmatian breed, here are some key elements you must know before bringing a puppy home.
Personality
Dalmatians have exquisite personalities! This is an appropriate option if you like an active breed that can keep up with your active lifestyle. These energetic dogs will love visiting new places, visiting dog parks, going outside to run around, and playing interactive games.
Dalmatians can get along with other pets and strangers alike, permitting them to socialize properly. If the Dalmatian hasn’t been properly socialized, it can lead to social anxiety and other behavioral quirks.
Dalmatians are incredibly curious. They love exploring new surroundings and investigating the unknown. You will notice them using all of their senses on daily walks and cheerfully exploring new spaces.
Diet
Dalmatians are very physically fit dogs that require a lot of exercise in a day. Because of their extreme desire for activity, they need nutrient-dense, high-protein dog food that nourishes their muscles, bones, and other vital organs.
They don’t necessarily require a specialized diet, so you can consult your veterinarian for some good diet options. Your main options are dry kibble, wet dog food, and fresh dog food when it comes to commercial brands.
However, many owners are exploring their own kitchen space, especially crafting recipes at home to have more control over their dog’s nutrition. Ultimately, you will choose the most cost-friendly and nutritionally beneficial option for your particular Dalmatian.
If your dog has any allergies or food sensitivities, the diet may have to be tweaked to nourish their system correctly. However, they should only have to be on specialized dog food if directed by your veterinarian.
Exercise
Your Dalmatian is going to love exercise. You won’t have to convince them; they’ll do it on their own. Because of their high activity needs, they work best in homes where they have lots of room to run and play.
Often having another dog or younger child around can motivate them to get out the energy appropriately. Every Dalmatian will be a little different, but a good average is 60 minutes of solid daily exercise. You can break this up into intervals or have an all-out hour of fun.
Your Dalmatian will love many games and activities, such as agility, fetch, jogging, scavenger hunting, and many other interactive activities.
Health
Dalmatians are generally pretty healthy animals. However, one major problem among the breed is inevitable deafness. Incredibly, up to 30% of Dalmatians are either unilaterally or bilaterally deaf. This means they can lose their hearing on one or both sides.
Unlike other genetic health issues that can be weeded out with good breeding, this deafness is not a trait that can be avoided.
They can also have a handful of genetic health issues, but not many. Typically, routine vetting will help your veterinarian monitor your Dalmatian’s growth and overall health. That way, if the health issue crops up in the future, it can be dealt with accordingly.
Common health issues associated with Dalmatians include:
- Bladder stones
- Copper-associated liver disease
- Epilepsy
- Hip dysplasia
Cost
The cost of a Dalmatian puppy can vary quite a lot. Ultimately, it depends on the quality of the puppy, the particular breeder’s rates, and the area you live. The rarity of coat color can also significantly affect how much Dalmatian puppies cost.
Dalmatian puppies generally fall between $450 to $1,200. Most breeders require deposits and could even request a signature on a puppy contract. This is a good measure to ensure the puppy will never end up in a shelter if you cannot take care of them in the future.
You can also rescue a Dalmatian from a shelter. Most of the time, these dogs will be fully grown or advanced into the juvenile stage. You can give a dog a second chance at a better life. If you choose this method, you can expect to pay between $150 to roughly $400.
Another beneficial aspect of adoption versus buying from a breeder is that all of the vetting has been completed before you take your dog home. They also usually require meet and greets as well as certain stipulations to ensure this pet is going to the correct family.
The 5 Dalmatian Fun Facts
1. Dalmatians Have Lots of Nicknames
Dalmatians have a laundry list of nicknames. Some of them include:
- Plum pudding dog
- Spotted coach dog
- English coach dog
- Leopard dog
- Firehouse dog
- Carriage dog
2. Dalmatians Are Famous On-Screen
You might already know this one. Dalmatians are no strangers to the camera. They were used as main antagonists in films like Disney’s 101 Dalmatians. Real Dalmatian puppies were also featured in the live version of this movie.
They are also used as familiar faces in several other on-screen roles, just maybe not the main characters. They are certainly popular in Hollywood.
3. Dalmatian Coats Are One-of-a-Kind
One really incredible thing about the Dalmatian is that their color pattern is not seen in any other breed of dog across the AKC breeds list. What is extra unique about this particular marking style is that deafness is much higher in dogs with extreme white spotting, which is exactly what Dalmatians have.
4. Dalmatian Puppies Are Born White
Even though Dalmatians develop spots that are completely unique and different, they are born completely white. They don’t start developing their spots until roughly 2 weeks of age. So it’s always interesting to see a pure white litter of puppies and watch the little surprises pop up all over their coats!
5. Dalmatians Were Fire Station Dogs
Once upon a time, Dalmatians were used in fire stations to help firefighters with their jobs. They are extremely compatible with horses, so they were trained to run in front of the engines to help clear a path for horses and firefighters.
These courageous spotted dogs had a double positive. Due to their deafness. They also didn’t have to worry about hearing the loud sirens at the station.
In Conclusion
Dalmatians are certainly a unique breed due to their coat patterns and colors alone. They are one of a kind, being completely different from any other canine. Their coat patterns have awed geneticists all over.
Not only are Dalmatians magnificent specimens, but their personalities are also fantastic as well. If you have an active lifestyle and love being on the go, a Dalmatian is certainly a friendly pal to have in your corner.
Featured Image Credit: MabelAmber, Pixabay
