Dalmatian health: what owners should know
Conditions the Dalmatian is known to be prone to, breeder screening and everyday habits that help.
Two issues are most closely linked to this breed: deafness and urinary stones. Deafness is connected to the genes behind the white coat, and hearing studies have found some loss in roughly a quarter to a third of the dogs tested. Urate stones relate to the uric acid metabolism described above. Hip dysplasia, skin allergies and a form of copper storage liver disease are also seen. Responsible breeders hearing-test all puppies and parents, screen hips, and some use low uric acid lines.
Keep your dog lean, well watered and given frequent chances to pee, and notice any change in toilet habits. See a vet immediately if your Dalmatian, especially a male, strains to pass urine, produces only drops, or seems in pain while trying. Blood in the urine, licking at the genitals, or repeated trips outside with little result also need a prompt appointment.
Numbers worth knowing
Life expectancy
11 to 13 yrs
Senior care
Individual assessment
age alone does not define care needs
Typical breed weight
20 to 32 kg