Dalmatians are wonderful dogs. They are very loyal to their owners, friendly and inclined to be clowns much of the time. They are also very energetic, very playful and very intelligent. For the truly dedicated and well-prepared dog owner, the Dal can be a gift straight from heaven. To the novice or first-time dog owner, who does not have a clear understanding of the breed, the Dalmatian can be the worst kind of nightmare. In earlier times, Dalmatians were used to guard stables and fire houses. They were also bred to run with coaches and horses all day. This required an extremely high energy level, which, to this day, makes the Dal an exuberant, vibrant and energetic animal that requires lots of exercise. Without this very necessary exercise, they can become bored and destructive. They are also extremely intelligent dogs and need continuous stimulation and challenge. Otherwise, they will invent their own entertainment and this may not be what you would have chosen.
I personally have owned dalmatians which have twice a day for years run a FIFTY MILE circuit...just for fun. We were living on my family's ranch
where they had the room.
If you know of a dalmatian which is being abused, please contact a person who has saved countless dalmatians.
Through efforts like hers we can place these dogs into proper homes.