Physical Traits Of A Standard Dalmatian
The information provided in this article is not intended for show dogs and does not deal with the conformation of champions and how to select one. The description given here provides basic information about the stature of a Dalmatian and qualities of a physical nature. Since standards come and standards go, measuring your Dalmatian against some imaginary yardstick does little for you or your dog. Just because your dog is not a show champion, it does not mean that he is any less of a family member. And just because a dog is a champion does not mean that he is not a genetic time bomb waiting to go off. When breeders and those interested in showing Dalmatians are selecting dogs, they are looking for those qualities that match the breed "standard." This standard changes from time to time and from country to country. Thus, the conformation and physical characteristics that pet owners should concentrate on are somewhat different and much more practical. Dalmatians were originally bred to be medium-sized dogs. However, as they were used for more and more guard work, they were bred to become much larger. Most adult males are between 22 and 24 inches at the withers and female Dalmatians are about 1-2 inches smaller. The normal weight range for the breed is between 40 and 70 pounds. It is not unusual to see dogs considerably larger than the breed standard allows and some males may be 27 inches at the withers and 90 pounds. Dalmatians in Britain tend to be larger than American varieties. Larger dogs are not necessarily better dogs. Dalmatians were never intended to be considered "giants" and the increased size might promote some medical problems which tend to be more common in larger dogs. Evidence shows that the larger members of the breed might be more susceptible to orthopedic disorders such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. There are two "approved" colors for Dalmatian: white with black spots and white with liver/brown spots. The "spots" tend to be focal and less than 5 cm (2 inches). Larger areas of color are referred to as patches and will disqualify a Dalmatian from the conformation show ring, though these patches have no health impact. |
Sponsored Ads:Related Articles:
Dogs / Dog Training / Dog Training Basics - Training The New Puppy Golden Retriever / Feeding Your Golden Retriever Articles / The Collie Dog. Dogs / Dog Behaviour / The Danger Of A Jealous Dog Dogs / Dog Training / Dog Training For Desired Behaviors Cat Training / Cat Training With A Clicker Dogs / Small Dog Breeds / Brussels Griffon Dog Breed Dogs / Small Dog Breeds / Dandie Dinmont Terrier Dog Breed Cat Training / Litter Training A Cat Dogs / Dog Nutrition / Nutritional Needs For Different Dog-Types Dogs / Small Dog Breeds / Yorkshire Terrier Dog Breed Dogs / Dog Training / How To Teach Your Puppy To "Sit-Stay" Pet Food / List Of Recalled Pet Food Keeps Pets Safe And Pet Owners Happy Beekeeping / Beekeeping And The Apple Orchards Dogs / Hound Dogs Also In This Category:
Dogs / Dalmatian Dogs - Picking A Suitable Stud Dog - The History Of The Dalmatia Breed Of Dalmatian - House Training Your Dalmatian - Dalmatians & Demodicosis - Requirements Before Breeding - Medical Conditions And Diet For Your Dalmatian - Getting To Know Your Dalmatian - What Does A Dalmatian Look Like? - Chew Toys For Your Dalmatian Puppy - Spaying & Neutering Your Dalmatian - A Brief History Of The Dalmatian - Dalmatian History - The Right Crate For Your Dalmatian Puppy - Personality And Behavior Of An Active Dalmatian - The Melody Breed Of The Dalmatian Currently Online :7 member(s), 6 guest(s): CaliforniaDream, Cashsplash, ChocolateDrop, FlowerPower, MorningAfter, OpenRoad, Zoe, Google, MSN.com, Cobion.com, Slurp, Yandex Search : |
No comments yet
teacher hard protein clippers canin pasteurized designed poodle loud champion chemicals place tract papillon first drive afraid cru charging pet running great male front germany me conditions developed exercise hyperkinesis bred source spray po rest powder solving ears method collie minerals hybrid exercising goods tidbits oils handler plan chinese thunder clean
Categories: Healthy Dog Dog Diets Obedience Training Boxer Holistic Veterinary Responsible Dog Ownership New Dog Owners Top 5 Deadly Canine Diseases Cats Pet Food Hypoallergenic Dogs Pets Dog Breeds Iguanas Golden Retriever Dog Care Reptiles Beekeeping Cat Training Small Dog Breeds Puppy Training Poodle Dogs Pit Bull Dogs Labrador Retriever Dogs Dog Training Dog Toys Dog Supplies Dog Shows Dog Psychology Dog Parasites Dog Nutrition Dog Grooming Dog Food Dog Diseases Dog Collars Dog Behaviour Dalmatian Dogs Dogs Pet Insurance