Dalmatian Dog Registration

General Appearance

The Dalmatian is a well-balanced, medium-sized, muscular dog with a symmetrical and elegant outline. Its most notable feature is its unique spotted coat. The breed should give an impression of power, speed, endurance, and alertness, without any coarseness or excessive refinement.

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Size and Proportion

• Height at the withers:

  • Males: 22–24 inches (56–61 cm)

  • Females: 20–22 inches (51–56 cm)

• Weight:

  • Males: 55–70 pounds (25–32 kg)

  • Females: 45–60 pounds (20–27 kg)

• Proportion: The body is slightly longer than tall, giving a rectangular appearance. The outline should be clean, with a level topline.

Head

• Skull: Flat, fairly broad with a moderate stop

• Muzzle: Long and powerful, with straight nasal bridge

• Nose: Black in black-spotted dogs; brown (liver) in liver-spotted dogs

• Eyes: Medium-sized, round, set moderately apart. Color matches the nose: dark in black-spotted, amber in liver-spotted

• Ears: Moderately large, set high, carried close to the head, with a slight upward curve and rounded tips. Preferably spotted

Neck, Topline, and Body

• Neck: Moderately long, arched, and elegant; free from throatiness

• Topline: Level and firm

• Chest: Deep with well-sprung ribs; brisket reaches the elbows

• Back: Strong and straight

• Loin: Muscular and slightly arched

• Tail: Reaches approximately to the hock, tapering, carried in a slight upward curve; ideally spotted

Forequarters

• Shoulders: Well laid back and muscular

• Forelegs: Straight and strong with round bone

• Pasterns: Slightly sloped

• Feet: Compact, round, with well-arched toes and firm pads (“cat feet”)

Hindquarters

• Muscular and well-defined, in balance with forequarters

• Stifles: Well-angulated

• Hocks: Well let down and parallel when viewed from behind

• Feet: As in forequarters

Coat

• Short, dense, and fine, with a sleek and glossy appearance. Even coverage without bald patches.

Color and Markings

• Base color: Pure white

• Spots: Clearly defined, round, and evenly distributed

  • Black-spotted Dalmatians: Black spots

  • Liver-spotted Dalmatians: Liver (brown) spots

• Size of spots: Preferably between dime- and half-dollar-sized, though smaller on the head, legs, and tail

Gait / Movement

Smooth, effortless, and powerful. The Dalmatian should have a long stride, with strong rear drive and good reach in the front. The topline remains level while in motion, and legs move straight and parallel.

Temperament

Dalmatians are alert, active, intelligent, and outgoing. They should never appear shy or aggressive. Known for their loyalty and playful nature, they are excellent companions and great with children. Early socialization is essential.

Faults

• Poorly defined spots or heavy patches

• Blue eyes (disqualification in AKC standard)

• Over- or undersize

• Weak topline or cow-hocked hindquarters

• Timidity or aggression

Disqualifications

• Tricolor (black and tan) markings

• Lemon, blue, brindle, or other non-standard colors

• Blue eyes (according to AKC standard)

 

Ideal Owner

Dalmatians do best with active individuals or families who can provide regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their endurance and energy levels require a lifestyle that includes walks, runs, or playtime. They are highly trainable but may be stubborn without consistent, positive reinforcement.