Before you adopt a Dalmatian, ask yourself these questions.

DO YOU HAVE A FENCED YARD?
You'll need one. And not a yard taken up with a swimming pool. Don't plan on leaving him out on a chain. He won't get enough exercise, but chances are he will become aggressive.
HOW OLD ARE YOUR CHILDREN?
If your children are age five and under, you will find that a young Dalmatian will not be a good playmate. A toddler is no match for the boundless energy of a Dal.

HOW PATIENT ARE YOU?
Dalmatians take a long time to mature and are the equivalent of teenagers until they are about 3 years old. Dalmatians need obedience school and a firm but gentle owner. Physical correction doesn't work well with Dals.
HOW ACTIVE ARE YOU?
Dals love to run! If you jog, you've got the right dog. If you're a couch potato, rethink your choice. Dogs bred to run with horses need an active life. Don't expect him to be happy in the back yard alone, either.
DO YOU HAVE ALLERGIES?
Dalmatians shed: usually they shed white hair on dark clothes and vice versa. People with allergies do not do well with Dals. Additionally, the hair they shed has little barbs on the end that make it hard to remove from fabric.

WHERE DO YOU LIVE?
If you rent or live with your parents, make sure your landlord or roommate will approve of you having a large dog. What will you do if you have to move someplace that doesn't permit dogs over 35 lbs.? If you live at home, your parents must approve of your purchase and agree to the decision to own a Dal.
WHY DO WE TELL YOU THIS?
Every year Dalmatian Rescue takes in dozens of dogs from shelters, private homes, boarding kennels, and clinics. However, we only help 1 out of every 20 Dals. As beautiful as these precious puppies are, they often end their lives as unwanted, abused or mistreated animals. It's hard to find homes for adult dogs. We want you to be sure of your choice and make an informed decision.

More facts about the Dalmatian breed.

 

 
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