But, before you buy that lovely spotted puppy you've seen on television and in magazines, stop and ask yourself if the Dalmatian is right for you and your family. The Dalmatian is an athletic, active, and highly intelligent breed that has many positive qualities but a few negative ones, too. As with any breed, research is required before bringing this dog into your home. The Dal has short hair, but does shed year round. This shedding is a consideration if a family member has allergies.
Grooming is an easy task because of the short hair.
Short hair length also means these dogs suffer from the cold. They should be maintained in a warm atmosphere, meaning housed inside, during the winter. Patches are a throwback to a cross with the English Pointer in England, early in the breed's history. Other Dalmatians are tricolored, with black and liver spots on the same dog. Tricolored Dals and dogs with patches cannot compete in conformation classes at dog shows.