Dalmatians are energetic, intelligent, loving dogs who unfortunately have gained a reputation over the years for being unruly or ill-behaved. A properly trained Dalmatian is a loyal, protective animal suitable for the entire family. They adore human companionship and need plenty of it in order to thrive. The Dalmatian has served many purposes throughout the ages, and therefore is a highly adaptable dog that can participate in a wide variety of activities. The adult Dalmatian stands between 19 and 24 inches high (54 to 61 centimeters) and weighs between 45 and 70 pounds (20 to 32 kilograms).

The Dalmatian has a short, fine, dense coat that sheds constantly. The hairs are barbed, which encourages them to stick firmly to furniture, clothing, and anything else they come into contact with. The only accepted colors for showing are either black or liver spots against a white background. Less frequently seen colors include blue (a blue-grey color), orange, lemon, brindle, mosaic, tri-colored, or two-toned.

Generally speaking, the Dalmatian is not a good choice for a first-time dog owner, or those who are unwilling to spend a good deal of time with obedience training. In fact, 50% of Dalmatian owners will not keep the dog beyond the first year.
Dalmatians are extremely intelligent creatures, capable of being trained to a very high level of obedience. The dog cannot be treated harshly, though. They have excellent memories, and can remember abuse or rough treatment for many years.
Dalmatians are very independent and strong-willed, and lack the high desire to please their owners that many other breeds have. For this reason, ongoing, patient, consistent training is necessary. Generous rewards and praise combined with consistent, gentle corrections seem to work best when training this breed. Small children should always be supervised when playing with a Dalmatian. This breed adores people and children, and has a happy-go-lucky attitude about life. Unfortunately, the dog may inadvertently send a young child rolling across the floor by accident.
The Dalmatian was bred to run along with or under horse carriages, and so has a very high level of energy. This dog requires plenty of exercise and loves to run free. Some Dalmatians have been known to embark on journeys of several days. In today’s society, such adventures are unsafe. Therefore, a safe place needs to be provided to ensure the animal gets his much-needed romp in a secure environment.
These dogs love human companionship, and will become very depressed if left alone. If it is necessary to leave the dog at home, he must be trained to accept his owner’s absence. Having a companion animal in the house will help prevent the dog from pining for his owner.

Only liver or black spots on a white background are allowed. Patches of solid color are disqualifying. The eyes should be medium sized and rounded, and can be either black, brown, amber, or blue. Ears are set high and carried close to the head, tapering toward the tip. The body type is lean and muscular, resembling the Pointer.

The Dalmatian is by nature a very clean animal and is said to even avoid puddles. They are profuse shedders, requiring constant brushing to deal with the shedding. Dalmatians also enjoy a vigorous rubdown with a rough cloth.

The life expectancy of the Dalmatian is 10 to 12 years.