Ears are preferably spotted. It consists of tan markings found on the head, neck, chest, leg or tail of a black or liver-spotted dog. Patches are a disqualification. A patch is a solid mass of black or liver hair containing no white hair. It is appreciably larger than a normal sized spot.
Patches are a dense, brilliant color with sharply defined, smooth edges.
Patches are present at birth. Large color masses formed by intermingled or over-lapping spots are not patches. In keeping with the Dalmatian's historical use as a coach dog, gait and endurance are of great importance. Movement is steady and effortless. Balanced angulation fore and aft combined with powerful muscles and good condition produce smooth, efficient action.