Overview
The Dalmatian was bred to run alongside horse-drawn carriages for hours, guarding the horses and the coach. That gives you the whole dog: a lean, muscular trotter with staggering endurance, a strong bond with its people and a need for a great deal more exercise than its sleek looks suggest.
They are affectionate, playful and sometimes silly, with a stubborn streak. Two health points matter for a walker: a significant share of the breed is deaf in one or both ears, and many are on special diets to prevent urinary stones. Both affect how you handle the dog outdoors.
Exercise and walking needs
Two hours a day is a fair figure for a fit adult, ideally with some running. Dalmatians are ideal canicross and running partners and will match a bike or a jogger for miles.
Keep a young Dalmatian on gentler, shorter outings until the owner confirms the growth plates have closed. The adult appetite for distance arrives with time.
On the walk
- Hearing: A deaf or partly deaf Dalmatian will not come when called and may startle when touched. Confirm the dog's hearing and use hand signals and a vibrating collar if the owner does.
- Recall: Good in hearing dogs with training, but they will range far. Keep it in view and use a long line while you build the relationship.
- Other dogs: Usually sociable and playful, with a bouncy style. Suits a group walk with dogs that enjoy a run.
- Pulling: Strong forward pull from a dog that wants to trot. A harness and a steady pace help.
Tips for professional walkers
- Carry water and encourage drinking; good hydration matters for the urinary issues the breed is prone to.
- Do not give treats without checking: many Dalmatians are on low-purine diets and ordinary snacks are off the list.
- Plan for hair on everything. The short white coat sheds all year.
- Keep a coat handy in winter; the thin coat offers little protection standing about.
What to ask the owner
- Can the dog hear, fully or partially, and what signals does it know?
- Is it on a special diet, and which treats are allowed?
- How far is it currently walking or running, so you can match the distance rather than jump it?