At times, these dolphins follow the Gulf Stream up to Norwegian waters. In addition, scattered populations have been found in the Indian Ocean and waters near Japan. They seldom venture into the Arctic. The common dolphin is one of the smallest dolphins. Overall length can vary from 5 feet to a maximum of 8 feet.
Females are slightly smaller than males.
The common dolphin has a dorsal fin that is almost triangular, in addition to small flippers and flukes. The beak is sharply divided from the lower forehead by a deep groove. The beak is elongated and pointed more than any other species of the same genus. The jaws on each side of the beak are lined with 20 or more small, sharp, recurved teeth, perfect for catching slippery fish. Common dolphins are a colorful dolphin species.