We are thinking of getting a Dalmatian as a companion for our 4 year old Airedale dog (he has been neutered and is very friendly and non-aggressive). We need advice - should we get a dog or a bitch? If we get a dog, should we neuter him too, to keep them on en even footing? If we get a bitch will he still get "excited" by her even though he is neutered? We have also heard that Dalmatian bitchescan be a bit snappy and that males are a bit more laid back. True? Hope you can help. Susan

Hi Susan,
We may have to have a long question-and-answer session, so it might be easier if you registered with the site!

I have both male and female dalmatians (glad to see you can spell it properly - lots can't!) and have known many others of both sexes, and honestly, each is an individual. A neutered male can still get excited, mate and tie with a bitch, so don't let anyone tell you otherwise! Most of the bitches I've met have been as soft as butter, especially with people, equally, so have most of the males. The dogs tend to have a more independent streak when they're out, but in the house seem to be more "childish" than the bitches, who seem to be more sensible (a bit like humans really!)

Hope this helps :)

I'm walking a neutered Dallie dog at the moment - and he's still 'excitable' ;-) Please don't think it's a good thing for two dogs in a household to be 'equal' - it's not how dogs minds work, and infact it's often easier to have one netuered and one entire, as this accentuates the differences in the subtle ways that dogs can understand, and actually makes for fewer disputes.

Hi

In my opinion I would suggest you go for a bitch. Male Dallies can be harder to handle and I would suggest they only really go to experienced owners - they are definitely high maintenance!! :)

Have you thought about trying the rescue service?

Chloe :)

I don't know if you're aware Susan, but dalmations hair gets everywhere. I grew up with dalmations, and my school uniform was always covered, i couldn't go anywhere without having white hairs attached.
You really need to look into this breed, before deciding on getting one, they are a handful. They need a lot of exercise. They're certainly not a breed for the novice, and i would say on a par with border collies.
Our old boy, who died when he was 13, was still boisterous up until that last day.

I agree. And it cannot be hoovered up either like longer fur, it sticks into everything like little needles and COVERS everything. Its gets everywhere... you open a ready meal from Tescos and there's already one in it!! Have never figured that one out - they are definitely airbourne!!
Male Dalmatians - I have never had such an independent animal.

Oh, these hairs...!! You need to learn to love them or go bonkers.

The ideal dalmatian owner has to be very tolerant with a warped sense of humour - you need it! They don't start mentally growing up before they are about 8 years old, and the males can be very big and boisterous (size is starting to get out of control), and when adult require as much exercise as you can give them, and then do it again.

If they get bored (which happens easily as they are intelligent) they will find something to do - which usually involves destroying something.

They are a delightful breed, but they are hard work, and not for the faint-hearted (or houseproud!)

Hi J/Genie

I was suprised to see a 7 year old veteran get BOB at Crufts... was the standard low this year to take an older dog through?? I don't know that much about showing but I was still suprised. I was also pleased to see Jo Roach got a VHC with Holderness High Jinks - she seems to be doing pretty well...

Chloe

I've not been to a show since last Crufts with Harry (expenses, then his accident) so I've not seen what's out and about; but looking through the results there were some very nice ones there - and the BoB moved well....though not as well as Washakie Indian Summer - she was a dream.

Of course this is a late-maturing breed, and the young ones will have their day. :)

I agree with JeanGeanie, the males are very boistrous especially if they are not neutured, mine has become a sweetie since neuturing, meant I couldn't show him anymore, but so much easier to live with. As you have a neutured dog, this might cause a problem with Alpha status and a Dalmatian can be very 'Alpha Male'. How I agree with JeanGeanie on the size of the males at present, they are loosing thier elegance, which is such a shame. If you are set on the Breed and they are wonderful if you have a sense of humour, I would go for a bitch, the strength alone makes a dog hard work.
Good Luck
Sandra