Dalmatian Temperament Traits and Breed Personality

Dalmatian temperament makes them energetic, alert, playful, affectionate and loyal. They are great running companions, watchdogs and good family pets too. But going to a reputable puppy breeder is vital, as the average Dalmatian temperament has changed a lot. Bred as energetic, protective carriage dogs, a huge rise in popularity after the successful 101 Dalmatians film had a bad impact on some Dalmatian temperament traits. Today we’ll look at how the sensitive, loving Dalmatian temperament has progressed from their past as watchdogs and long distance runners, to companion dogs. And how they’ve recently got a mostly unfair reputation for being a mean or aggression breed.

Contents

• Working Dalmatian temperament
• The Disney effect
• Are Dalmatians mean or friendly?
• Aggression in the Dalmatian temperament

Dalmatian temperament is as striking as their appearance. The Dalmatian, with his iconic, eye-catching spots, has one of the most unique coats in the canine world. Not only are they the only spotted breed, but no two Dalmatians have the same pattern. Every coat is one-of-a-kind. Graceful and powerful, they move with an effortless gait. There is much to recommend this striking breed. But are there behavior issues that might not make this the ideal pet for everyone?

Although it’s not uncommon for a dog’s origins to be vague and disputed, the Dalmatian’s are particularly murky. Historians have used paintings and writings to support placing their roots in Europe, North Africa, and Asia. Their association with nomadic bands of Romani or gypsy people may explain the mystery of their origins. We do know that their name comes from a region previously called Dalmatia, now known as Croatia. You could even use that to inspire your puppy name choices!

Working Temperament Traits

The Dalmatian’s working background is as varied as his reputed ancestry. Shepherd, ratter, trail hound, guard dog, boar and stag hunter, circus dog: the Dal did it all. But perhaps his most unique job was as a coach dog.

This handsome breed made attractive attendants as they ran alongside carriages and riders to protect them from highwaymen and other predators.

The Dalmatian’s affinity for horses and natural coaching instincts also made them an excellent fit to work with fire departments. It was their job to run ahead of the horse-drawn fire engine to clear the crowded city streets. Today, many firehouses still keep Dalmatians as mascots in honor of their heroic past.

The Typical Dalmatian Temperament

Dalmatian temperament can differ greatly throughout the breed. Behavior is due to a combination of genetic background and the environment and handling the individual dog receives. That’s why sometimes you’ll hear them described as being dignified, dependable, and affectionate. Other times they’re high-strung, stubborn, and aggressive.

Some people say they’re wonderful with children, and others that they don’t seem to like kids much at all. To his credit, the Dalmatian is a smart and adaptable dog. In most cases, they love people and want to be involved in all family activities.

They generally get along well with other animals, and of course, are particularly fond of horses.

However, their history may make them prone to guarding tendencies and protective instincts. Providing them with early socialization, training, and plenty of exercise and companionship are the best ways to ensure your dog is well-adjusted.

The Disney Dalmatian Dilemma

Fads and fashions come and go and impact every aspect of society.

fad is defined as “an intense and widely shared enthusiasm for something, especially one that is short-lived and without basis in the object’s qualities.”

Movies featuring dogs often had a huge impact on the popularity of the breed for up to 10 years after the film’s release. There is possibly no better example of this phenomenon than the Disney film 101 Dalmatians.

This animated feature was re-released in 1985 and for eight years afterward, the annual number of new Dalmatian registrations with the American Kennel Club (AKC) increased, from 8,170 puppies to 42,816 puppies.

The breed’s status, which peaked in 1993, was followed by the sharpest decline of any breed in AKC history—a decrease of 97% within a decade. Unfortunately, this meteoric rise and eventual steep decline in popularity had some serious negative impacts for the Dalmatian.

How Breeding Impacts Personality

Needless to say, real live dogs are not cartoon characters. Many of the people who bought a Dalmatian puppy for their child weren’t prepared for the amount of time and energy these dogs require in terms of exercise and companionship.

Dals who are left alone too much or not properly socialized can display destructive behavior, like digging and chewing. Some may snap at and bite strangers.

Are Dalmatians Easy To Train?

Although highly intelligent, an innate tendency towards stubbornness and willfulness can make the Dalmatian a handful when it comes to training. This is an independent breed who can be manipulative and will try to do things their own way. Owners need consistency and patience.

They can also be quite sensitive, so positive, rewards-based training will work best. If your Dalmatian is obstinate, you may also want to consider puppy obedience classes.

As with any breed, early socialization is important. Introduce him to different people, situations, and other dogs. This is the best way to ensure you’ll raise a well-adjusted adult Dalmatian.

Dalmatian Temperament is Improved by Exercise

The Dalmatian is an active, athletic dog that requires a significant amount of physical exercise and mental stimulation. With his strong working background, a Dal who’s left on his own with nothing to do can easily become bored. This leads to anxiety, rowdiness, and destructive behavior.

Remember, these dogs were able to run for miles alongside carriages. They have plenty of stamina and love chasing balls, long hikes, running, and jogging beside bikes.

A Dalmatian who isn’t able to exercise his body and mind will find other ways to burn off their excess energy. Digging, chewing, and further destructive behaviors are often the reason why these dogs end up in shelters.

Are They Mean Dogs?

The surge in demand for Dalmatians allowed puppy mills and unscrupulous breeders, out to make a fast buck, to flood the market with poorly bred dogs. This compounded the problem because indiscriminate breeding can increase behavior and health issues.

Many of these poorly bred dogs displayed stubborn and aggressive behavior.

Are Dalmatians Friendly?

In many circumstances the Dalmatian is friendly, outgoing, and affectionate. They love their families and even have a reputation for being good with children. However, a full grown Dal can weigh up to 70 pounds and could easily knock down unsuspecting toddlers.

Sometimes their affability does not extend to strangers. They may be snappish. But when this adaptable breed receives the love and attention he so greatly requires, he can be quite a friendly companion.

   

Puppy Temperament Traits

When searching for a puppy, it’s best if you can observe the entire litter together as a group. This will allow their different personalities to be more apparent. When choosing a puppy, look for the one who’s neither shy, nor aggressive. Instead, select one who appears outgoing and shows curiosity without being dominant or too passive.

Are Dalmatians Aggressive?

While most Dalmatians are friendly, there are some who can be aggressive. A Canadian study on dog attacks found the Dalmatian to be involved in bite incidents. This study determined that aggression, anxiety, and unruly behavior were present in the breed.

As mentioned, carriage dog is among the many occupations the Dalmatian has excelled in over the years. In England in the 17th century, British nobles wouldn’t travel anywhere without them. If trouble arose, the dedicated Dal would be quick to alert their human to the problem.

Sometimes the dog’s size and ability to protect would be enough to prevent any wrongdoing. However, this natural instinct to guard and protect can cause them to be aggressive with strangers. If the Dalmatian detects any signs of threatening behavior from someone they don’t know, they will quite likely bark or growl.

Do They Like Other Dogs?

For the most part Dalmatians will get along fine with other dogs, and even cats. If you happen to own horses, they will get on famously. However, there are some Dalmatians who may not take kindly to other dogs.

This is a not uncommon problem for many breeds. The best way to overcome this issue is early socialization. To start, go slowly with short sessions that are fun experiences for them. Puppy classes are an option. They’re a good place to meet other dogs.