Between 25 and 30 per cent of all Dalmatians have a hearing impairment ranging from slight deafness in a single ear to complete deafness. Having a deaf dog requires an even greater commitment but it can be very rewarding. Breeders routinely euthanize completely deaf dogs, but hearing-impaired dogs are still sold. Special Food Dalmatians are the only dog breed that process protein in a special way. Healthy Dalmatians tend to live a good life span of about 14 years.
Dalmatians have smooth coat requiring little grooming.
However, they do shed constantly. They tend to have little or no odour. Dalmatians cannot be kept outdoors. Before you get a Dalmatian read as much as possible and talk to other Dalmatian owners, SPCA representatives, and Dalmatian Rescue groups before you adopt. Ask specifically about the negative qualities as well as the positive.