Earset should be judged when the dog is alerted. Ears should reach to, or very slightly below, the jawline. Ears which are too short tend to fly away from the head. Ears are rarely too long, but may be large and set on lower, giving the impression of more length. The ears should frame the face nicely when alerted, giving neither a terrier type of effect nor a hound-ish look.
Perfection is a balanced combination of substance and elegance.
Overall musculature in the Dalmatian should be firm, flat, long and smooth. Bulging muscles are inappropriate for this breed since their weight, mass and lack of flex would slow the dog down on the road. One should be able to see the muscles work over the shoulder blades and thighs as the dog moves. The body should feel sturdy and substantial to the hand and yet retain the flexibility necessary to absorb shock and move efficiently over long distance. Viewed from behind, the tail swings slightly from side to side, following the motion of the back as the rear legs alternately reach forward under the dog, and swing back behind the dog.