Most people wonder what a patch is until they have seen one. If you have ever seen a pointer with a black patch over an eye or covering an ear and a portion of his skull, that kind of marking is similar to a Dalmatian patch. A patch is larger than a normal Dalmatian spot, and is present at birth. When they occur, they are usually found on the head, but they can occasionally be located elsewhere on the body or tail. The breeds’ markings may be understood a bit better if you realize that genetically the dog is a solid black or liver-colored animal that also carries a gene for covering over the black or liver color.

Genetically speaking, for any breed of dog that carries variations of this “white masking of the black or liver base color,” the pattern of dark markings can show up in looks ranging…

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For purebred dogs, the standard of the breed refers to what is considered to be the ideal specimen of that particular breed. It outlines in specific detail each and every feature of that breed, both in physical characteristics and in temperament. It accurately describes the dog from head to tail, creating a clear impression of what is to be considered correct or incorrect, the features comprising the type of breed and the probable temperament and behavior patterns of typical members of that breed.

The standard is the guide for breeders who wants to produce a quality show dog. It is also used as a tool that judges use to evaluate and make their decisions in the show ring. It is the result of countless hours spent in hard work by experienced and knowledgeable members of each breed’s parent Specialty Club, resulting from the combined efforts of the club itself, its…

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Socialization and training your Dalmatian puppy need to start the very day of his arrival in your home. You should not address him without calling him by his name. A short, simple name is the easiest to teach because it catches the puppy’s attention quickly, so avoid giving him elaborate names. Always address the pup by the same name, not a whole series of pet names because the latter will only confuse your puppy. Say his name clearly, and call him over to you when you see him awake and wandering about. When he comes, make a big fuss over him for being such a good dog. He will then quickly associate the sound of his name with coming to you and a pleasant experience.

It is not too soon to start familiarizing him to the feel of a light collar, which can start as early as several hours after his…

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Dalmatians make wonderful family companions. This is a type of dog that will fit nicely to whatever your way of life. His medium size is suitable for apartment living, while at the same time a true sporting dog at heart, therefore a great addition to your country or suburban home. In addition, the Dalmatian is an excellent guarddog who is very sensible and alert but not a hysterical barker. He is therefore a dog whose bark is to be respected and investigated! If your Dalmatian sounds a “danger alarm,” you can be sure that there is a good reason for it, such as the approach of a stranger. He is initially cautious of strangers and not automatically everyone’s friend. Often referred to as courteous dogs, he greets visitors to your home with quiet dignity but at the same time with reserve.

Classifying Dalmatians as Non-Sporting Dogs is inaccurate. He is…

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The Dalmatian is a breed of balance and moderation. You do not want a big head on a little dog or a small head on a big dog. Similarly, you do not want an extremely elegant head on a male dog or a very “doggy” head on a female dog. The females are generally more feminine versions of the males and this male/female difference should be quite apparent. The head should have clean lines and the Dalmatian should have a clean mouth, not drooling or loose-lipped. The standard does a good job of describing eyes, ears, stop, muzzle, nose, lips and scissors bite; and it also notes appropriate size and angle relationships.

With regard to eyes, the major faults of ectropion and entropion eyelids refer to lids that turn into (entropion) or out/row, (ectropion) the eye. Trichiasis is a condition of one or more misdirected eyelashes, causing corneal or conjunctival…

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You should not allow your stud dog to be used for breeding until he is about a year old, and even then he should be bred to a mature, proven matron who is already accustomed to breeding. Doing this will make his first experience pleasant and easy. Keep in mind that a young dog can be put off permanently by a female dog who fights and resists his advances. Never let this happen. Always start a stud dog out with a female dog who is mature, has been bred previously, and is of even temperament.

The first breeding should be performed in a quiet surrounding with only you and one other person to hold the female dog. Do not make it a show, as the experience will determine the dog’s outlook about future stud work. If your stud does not enjoy the first experience or associates it with something that…

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