Puppies can be tested as early as 5 weeks of age. The BAER test method provides a permanent record of a dog's hearing status. If a Dal hears as a pup it will hear as an adult, barring injury, infection or old age. Dalmatian Club of America members provide only hearing dogs for sale or placement. Where BAER testing is not available, breeders rely on home testing methods.
Responsible breeders provide sales agreements guaranteeing that a puppy can hear.
The DCA provides breeder referral information to help you find healthy, well-bred puppies. The DCA has long been committed to improving the overall hearing rate in the Dalmatian. DCA sponsored research continues to lead to a better understanding of deafness. An open Hearing Registry has been established to maintain a database of BAER test results. The purpose of DCA policies regarding deafness are to advance the quality of the breed.