Dalmatians 101

Non-Sporting

The lean, athletic build and graceful gait of the Dalmatian are lovely to see in action, which is the way the Dal prefers to be. A Dalmatian will never be a couch potato, although they won't mind sharing a rest with their people after a nice long run. A good fit for active families.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about Dalmatians

Always ready for action

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
19 to 24 inches tall
Group Size Large
Lifespan
11 to 13 years
020
Weight
45 to 70 lbs
0150

We want to see pictures of your Dalmatian!

Tag @NationwidePet on social media!

My pet’s health plannerSM

Mature adult Dalmatian

6 years to 9 years

Risk level for common Dalmatian conditions

risk-level-bar

Kidney failure

risk-level-bar

Urinary tract infection

risk-level-bar

Valvular heart disease

Senior Dalmatian

10+ years

Risk level for common Dalmatian conditions

risk-level-bar

Kidney failure

risk-level-bar

Valvular heart disease

risk-level-bar

Intervertebral disc disease

Dalmatian puppy

0 to 9 months

Risk level for common Dalmatian conditions

risk-level-bar

Urinary tract infection

risk-level-bar

Gastroenteritis

risk-level-bar

Ear infection

Young adult Dalmatian

10 months to 5 years

Risk level for common Dalmatian conditions

risk-level-bar

Urinary bladder stones

risk-level-bar

Foreign body ingestion

risk-level-bar

Ear infection

Mature adult Dalmatian

6 years to 9 years

Risk level for common Dalmatian conditions

risk-level-bar

Kidney failure

risk-level-bar

Urinary tract infection

risk-level-bar

Valvular heart disease

Senior Dalmatian

10+ years

Risk level for common Dalmatian conditions

risk-level-bar

Kidney failure

risk-level-bar

Valvular heart disease

risk-level-bar

Intervertebral disc disease

Dalmatian puppy

0 to 9 months

Risk level for common Dalmatian conditions

risk-level-bar

Urinary tract infection

risk-level-bar

Gastroenteritis

risk-level-bar

Ear infection

Young adult Dalmatian

10 months to 5 years

Risk level for common Dalmatian conditions

risk-level-bar

Urinary bladder stones

risk-level-bar

Foreign body ingestion

risk-level-bar

Ear infection

Dalmation image

Nationwide can help you save on your Dalmatian's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.

Get your Dalmatian’s health information in a free report

Dalmation image

Dodie Smith's 1956 children's novel, "101 Dalmatians," which inspired several movies and TV series, was originally a series in Woman's Day magazine titled, "The Great Dog Robbery."

Dalmatian coat care and colors

Couldn't be easier: Regular brushing to remove loose fur and nail trims and baths as needed.

How often should I bathe my Dalmatian?

Dalmatians can be bathed monthly, weekly or as needed (if they roll in mud, for example!). Use a pet-specific shampoo and conditioner or an all-in-one product. If your dog’s coat or skin isn’t looking healthy, check with your veterinary healthcare team to see what might be causing the problem.

Should I use a special shampoo on my Dalmatian?

It's not necessary to use a special shampoo on your Dalmatian unless prescribed by your veterinarian. Any pet-safe shampoo, conditioner, or all-in-one should do just fine.

How do I keep my Dalmatian’s coat white?

Regular bathing and brushing should keep your Dalmatian's base coat a bright white. Some shampoos enhance natural color, brightening the white part safely. You should be able to find these at dog shows or at retailers that provide shampoos for show dogs.

Dalmatian exercise & training

Full speed ahead

Exercise level

Not surprising for a breed developed to travel alongside a carriage, the Dalmatian needs a great deal of exercise.

Class star

Trainability

The Dalmatian is bright and eager to please. Exercise (and lots of it!) is key to their being able to focus on the task at hand.

Dalmatian fun facts

Top girl names for Dalmatians

100%

of Dalmatians are female

0%

of Dalmatians are male

Top boy names for Dalmatians

Nationwide loves Dalmatians of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Dalmatians

Best. Dalmatian insurance. Ever.SM

  • Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
  • Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
  • Cancel at any time, risk-free