Eden, Bell Ringer Dalmatians |
101 THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE YOU BUY A DALMATIAN
With the re-release of 101 Dalmatians, a whole new generation will
be charmed
by the antics of Disney's spotted creations. Pongo, Perdita and
family
certainly present an appealing image, but parents beware, you may
leave the
theater with children begging for a spotted puppy of their own.
Dalmatians have experienced a sharp rise in popularity over the
past few
years. Their bold markings and sleek appearance, combined with
the
personalities portrayed by their on-screen counterparts, have put
them in the
public's eye in a big way.
Unfortunately, popularity
often spells disaster for a breed. When a specific
breed of dog becomes fashionable, the number of dogs bred increases
as people
try to capitalize on the new demand. Often commercial breeders -
those who
breed strictly for profit - take advantage of popularity and just
breed for
quantity, not quality. Often, no thought is given to the
bloodlines, health
or temperament of the animals.
Another problem with the rise in popularity of the breed is the
growing
number of uneducated owners. As with any breed, Dalmatians have
specific
personality traits and care requirements. Not the right type of
dog for
everyone, following are a few facts you should consider before
bringing a
Dalmatian into your home:
- Dals are very active dogs that require a great deal of
attention,
companionship and room to run in a safely fenced area. Because of
their
energy level they are often not recommended for apartment dwellers
or
families with very young children.
- Originally bred as a guard dog, Dalmatians tend to be
strong-willed. If
they are not raised with a gentle, but firm hand they will run the
household.
- Dalmatians are clowns and can be exasperating - especially in
puppyhood.
If you are looking for a quiet, always-obedient canine, you may
not enjoy a
Dalmatian.
- Dals are "people dogs" and do not enjoy spending long periods of
time
alone in the yard - especially if they know there are people
inside. Too
much time alone often results in a high-strung, destructive dog.
A bored
Dalmatian is an inventive Dalmatian!
- Dalmatians are not outdoor dogs. Their short coats are not
adequate
protection in the winter, even in a well-built dog house.
In the right environment Dals are wonderful, intelligent, loyal
companions
that make great family dogs. As with any dog, however, Dals don't
just turn
into great companions on their own. It takes time, commitment and
patience
on the part of the owner to raise a dog of any breed properly.
If you are considering purchasing a Dalmatian there are several
steps you can
take to be sure you're getting the right dog from the best possible
source.
Don't make a snap decision and buy the first puppy you see - do
your
homework!
- Go to the library and read as much as you can about the breed.
- Contact your local kennel club or breed club for firsthand
information.
These clubs are also often great sources for names and numbers of
responsible breeders in your area.
- Shop carefully! Talk to several breeders. A truly responsible
breeder
will be very knowledgeable about the breed, the pedigrees of
his/her dogs and
the proper care of a litter of puppies.
- Make sure the puppies have had proper care such as shots and
worm
medication if needed. They should also be hearing tested (BAER) as
there is a high
incidence of deafness in the breed.
- Realize that a responsible breeder is concerned about the
quality of
prospective homes and will have just as many questions for you as
you have
for him/her. Answer all questions honestly and accurately. If a
breeder
tells you a Dalmatian may not be the best breed for your family
listen to the
reasons and consider any and all advice carefully.
- If, after you have done your homework, you have any doubts at
all about
how a Dalmatian might fit your lifestyle, then it is likely not the
dog for
you. Appease the kids with a stuffed Pongo or Perdita and
investigate other
breeds.
- If you decide a Dalmatian is right for your family, consider
adopting a
rescued dog. If you purchase a puppy, talk with your veterinarian
about the
benefits of neutering your new pet at an early age. Not only can
you help
control the over-population problem, but you are helping ensure a
longer,
healthier life for your dog.
Dalmatian breed rescue groups constantly see the results of
uninformed owners and irresponsible breeders. They have
seen everything from abandoned and abused adult Dals, to unruly six
to 18
month old puppies. They've had call after call from owners who
ended up with
more dog than they were ready to handle. So before you buy a Dal, consider if your lifestyle and preferences can provide a compatible home for one.
Created 10/12/95, Updated 1/14/97
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