 The Short Answer is: |
The Dalmatian breed isn't uncommon. There are fewer authorized breeders as a result of their less popularity than other breeds. Due to their "difficult temperament", some people believe it's the reason they're not popular dog breeds. |
In this article you will know the answer to the query “Why Are Dalmatians So Rare?“.
Dalmatians have been around for over 130 years but they werenot officially introduced to us until the beloved Disney film 101 Dalmatians.
Cruella and her henchmen are cute intelligent funny and they always outsmart them.
Though they’re adorable with their spotty smiles and lovable personalities they’re pretty rare.
What is the reason for that?
Can there be something in their character or genetics that makes them unsuitable for normal family life?
The movies might not quite portray them as they appear in real life.
Find out if a Dalmatian is a right fit for you if you’re seeing spots and wondering whether its time to add one to your family.
How popular are Dalmatians?
In 1888 the first Dalmatian was registered with the AKC.
Based on the number of puppies registered with them in that year the AKC publishes a list of its most popular breeds each year.
AKC published this list for the first time in 2014 and Dalmatians ranked 66 out of 200 listed dog breeds.
In 2018 they climbed steadily to 56 out of 200 reaching their highest point in four years. They were then dropped from the list.
Dalmatians ranked 8 out of 30 utility breeds according to the UK Kennel Club registrations in 2020.
To compare the American Kennel Club reports that the most popular breed for 2020 is the Labrador Retriever while the Shih Tzu will be the most popular utility breed in the UK.
Why might Dalmatians not make great family pets?
To burn off their excess energy Dalmatians need lots of exercises. They become prone to mischief if these needs are not met.
Why would they do that?
On a rainy day its like a toddler who is bouncing off the walls out of boredom.
Being brilliant makes them bored quickly.
They often destroy a home or yard in a short period of time because of their smarts size and high energy levels.
Although Dalmatians are intelligent they are not fast learners.
Could it be that they get distracted too easily?
Although these pups need training you’ll need to be patient to get through it and it will probably take longer than with other dog breeds.
Alpha male syndrome is another issue.
Despite the fact that they love being in charge these pups will do anything to get their way.
They will do naughty things and manipulate you intentionally just so they can see how far they can get. You need to let them know that you’re in charge so they’ll respect you otherwise you’re going to have a hard time.
Its going to be hard for you otherwise.
Dogs like these thrive in a social environment and do not do well when left alone.
Either they act out become destructive or they act depressed and mope.
If you are away during the day the breed may not be the best choice.
When you’re having fun with the family they would not do well if they are chained up in the backyard.
These powerful dogs have been reported to be able to break their leash and scale a 6-foot wall just so they can reach the family thats having a good time without them.
The bouncy and busy nature of Dalmatians often makes them unsuitable for small children due to their boundless energy.
Probably not even noticing the kid standing nearby the Spotty knocked him off his feet in all the frolicking.
Dalmatians have a tendency to be either very aggressive or extremely timid when they’re not well socialized. Taking them to the dog park is not a good idea.
They’re also likely to be high-strung just like your paranoid aunt.
All food including fruit and vegetables must be locked away if you get a Dalmatian. The dog can reach pretty high so they will take everything they can get.
These pups will make a kids food without a blink so they can not eat safely around them.
Their way of doing things is just the way they are.
There are also concerns about health.
Deafness is a common problem in Dalmatians as they age.
It can not usually be reversed so thats not good.
Your house is now filled with a high-strung playful fireball that will not hear your calls. This is not pleasant.
Dalmatian pups are sometimes born deaf – this isnot known why.
Its important to buy a pup from a reputable breeder who gets their puppies tested.
You should also ask your breeder to demonstrate that your puppy isnot deaf just to be sure.
Dalmatians are also prone to bladder stones which are incredibly painful and require veterinary intervention.
Additionally your pup could become blind if it does not receive treatment for glaucoma.
Dalmatians often suffer from cataracts as they age which could also lead to blindness.
As well as allergies Dalmatians can suffer from atopy.
The skin of these people itches due to an allergic reaction to pollen dust or mold. Although the pup can be treated he will suffer quite a bit from this.
Their skin is damaged as a result of scratching and biting alleviating the itching. Further infection and pain are likely to result which is terrible for the dog.
If you live in an apartment this probably isn’t the right dog for you unless you have enough time and energy for really long daily walks or runs.
Its best for them to live in areas where they can run and play all day long with tons of human companionship.
What qualities do they have to make them great family pets?
You should not put off these spotty pups because of what we said in the previous section.
The Dalmatian is an incredibly loyal sensitive dog who will lay down his life for his owner.
Older kids love them – you know since they do not knock them over as easily when they’re bigger than the dog. Besides being excellent watchdogs Dalmatians are also very alert and protective.
Smiles are a sign of submissiveness among Dalmatians.
Even though it seems strange they do this by lifting their upper lips in a way that looks like they are snarling.
You can not help but love them once you know them. It may seem startling or even alarming for new people since a big dog showing its teeth is typically a bad sign.
Can I adopt a Dalmatian?
Dalmatians are found in rescue centers in large numbers.
Watching the movies people are captivated by the cute little Dalmatians.
“Hey that sounds cool!” they think.
Despite their brilliance these puppies do not behave like their movie counterparts.
People do not realize how much love exercise companionship and training these enormous dogs need.
These dogs make them feel overwhelmed so they transport them away to rescue shelters.
The high needs of Dalmatians make them one of the 10 most abandoned dog breeds.
It is possible to adopt a Dalmatian. You need to adopt one.
Conclusion
Despite being intelligent and loyal Dalmatians are extremely rambunctious.
Even though these adorable puppies are amazing dogs they are not everyones cup of tea.
The reason you have to be spending so much time with them is that they’re needy and attention-seeking.
In addition they possess an unlimited amount of energy that must be used every day.
They would otherwise get bored and misbehave.
In addition they are more prone to deafness eye diseases and allergies because of their genetic makeup.
Even though they require a lot of time and energy to keep them happy and occupied these pups make excellent guard dogs and loyal family pets.
You should think carefully before you add a spot to your family.
There are quite a few of them but they’re totally worth it.
Amanda (Author)
With over a decade of experience, Amanda is a distinguished dog trainer. Her expertise in canine behavior has transformed countless lives, fostering harmonious human-canine connections. Through compassionate and personalized approaches, she empowers owners to understand and connect with their furry companions, creating a legacy of joyful tails and transformed lives.
Osvaldo Maciel (Content Reviewer)
Osvaldo Maciel, a stalwart in the field with 14 years of experience, is a revered dog trainer. His journey is defined by a profound understanding of canine behavior, shaping unbreakable human-canine bonds. Osvaldo guides owners to connect with their beloved pets, leaving an indelible mark of happiness and transformation. His legacy shines through the countless lives he has touched.
