Why Are Dalmatians Not Popular? Do They Not Fit Well With Families?

Dalmatians are among the most intelligent and outgoing dog breeds. Their spotted, short black-and-white coat makes them a distinctive breed, and they grew even more popular after the release of the movie “Dalmatians 101.” 

It is not easy to resist those cute pups, but they turn into an energetic, destructive teenager after 6 months of age. They are lively and demand a lot of attention. But have you ever thought why are dalmatians not popular?  

Dalmatians require a significant amount of mental stimulation and exercise to remain happy and healthy. This is what has given them a bad reputation. 

According to Chris Jackson, an officer of the Dalmatian Club of America, mentioned in an article of SouthCoastToday, “These dogs aren’t for everyone and, in the wrong home, they can be a horrendous mistake.” 

She further added, “especially their high-energy level and their ability to destroy a house and yard if they get bored.” 

Why Are Dalmatians Not Popular?

After the release of the movie, many people wanted to have a Dalmatian puppy in their home. However, after a while, a lot of them surrendered these pups to shelters.  

Additionally, some individuals abandoned them after realizing the amount of work required and understanding they were not a good fit for their household.  

Moreover, some of these dogs were bred by some unknowledgeable breeders, which is why they developed some genetic disorders and temperament issues. 

Common Misconceptions About The Breed

Several misconceptions about the breed have developed over time. Some have developed due to misunderstandings about their temperament and certain health issues.  

One of the most common misconceptions about them is that they are born with the spots. However, they are born pure white and later develop the spots. Here are some common misconceptions that contribute to their unpopularity. 

1. They Are High Strung & Aggressive 

The misunderstanding about the breed has developed over the years. The rate of breeding and abandonment has increased after the release of various title films about them.  

Because those films they wanted to have in the household, without being fully aware of the personality traits. They are an energetic breed and do well when kept active and given a good amount of playtime.  

They become destructive when they do not get to release their high energy. When they are bored, they get aggressive like various other dog breeds. If they are exercised daily and properly socialized, you will be better able to manage them. 

So, if you are getting a dog, ensure that you get one that matches your lifestyle. Do not choose just one based on their appearance. This will help with your and the dogs’ mental and physical well-being.  

2. They Are Not A Family Dog 

Why are dalmatians not popular? There is a misconception that they are not suitable as family dogs and do not get along well with children. However, this can again be traced back to their need for exercise and socialization.  

They can make good family dogs. But you will need to have the upper hand all the time. They are independent thinkers and would find a way to keep themselves entertained if you do not see a way to release their energy. 

You will have to remind them constantly who the boss is. They are a lot similar to Dobermans and Rottweilers in this matter. They would grab any chance of having the upper hand. 

You will have to change their activities, or they will get bored with them. So, if you are thinking of getting a Dalmatian, you have to give them plenty of time and keep them engaged with exciting activities.  

They can be extremely devoted to people and love to spend time with people with whom they have a strong bond. It is incorrect to say that they dislike children, but their energy can be too much for toddlers. 

3. They Cannot Be Trained 

Karen Wissinger from Hoo Doo Dalmatians in Kent has been breeding Dalmatians for many years. She told SouthCoastToday in an article, “It’s common for some puppies to be born deaf and no one knows why.” 

She further added, “They don’t become that way after birth, so you can avoid getting one by buying from a breeder who routinely tests the dogs. Make sure the person demonstrates the puppy isn’t deaf.” 

So, when people say they are difficult to train and have a stubborn nature, it is because of this deafness.  

Well, they are more stubborn than any other breed, but if you are someone who understands their temperament and behavioral issues. They are intelligent, and if you train with an upper hand, they will be easy to deal with.  

Health Issues Of Dalmatians

Like any other senior dog, a Dalmatian is at risk of developing health issues with their back legs. If you have one of these breeds, or are thinking about getting one, you need to know about their mobility conditions before you get them. 

Some of the common mobility conditions include: 

• Osteochondritis Dissecans 
• Degenerative Myelopathy 
• Obesity  

Additionally, many individuals are prone to dental disease, which can be the precursor to various health issues. It is best to consult a vet regularly. It is important to monitor their health regularly. 

How To Get Them Proper Exercise?

As I mentioned, they need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. You have to dedicate at least 90 minutes to regular exercise for adult dogs, but ensure you do not over-exert them.  

Dalmatian puppies can manage 5 minutes of exercise for every month of their age. For example, if your puppy is 3 months of age, they will do well with 15 minutes of exercise. They have high energy and do amazing when put in agility courses.  

You can build your own list of exercises or put them in a local agility course. These exercises will keep them in shape, and they will also keep them mentally stimulated. 

Keep Them Safe 

Why are dalmatians not popular? Well, there are various reasons for that, and I hope this article will change at least a few of those. They got attention quite fast, but that was short-lived as well.  

They are not fit for apartment living if you do not take them out for walks or get them their much-needed exercise. Moreover, you will need a fenced-in yard so that they do not run freely, and always use positive reinforcement to train them. 

If you can understand them, you will often notice them smiling. But they can bite as well when provoked, like any other dog. You will have to love them, give them a lot of attention, to keep them happy and calm.