The Scary Reality of Dog Genetic Disease

The prevalence of genetic disease in dogs today can only be described as alarmingly common which is bad news for dog owners and dog lovers alike. The following is a list to illustrate the magnitude of the problem:

1. On average all dogs carry at least 4-5 defective genes.

2. Over 500 genetic diseases have been identified in dogs.   

3. Hip Dysplasia (HD) (an inherited orthopedic disease that may result in the dog becoming lame) commonly occurs in 60 dog breeds and occurs less frequently in another 110 breeds; thus this disease is seen in over 170 breeds of dog.

4. 119 dog breeds are commonly afflicted with progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), a disease that quite often leads to blindness in the affected animal.

5. Of all the dog breeds the Poodle suffers from the most number of genetic diseases…145! The reason why the Poodle is predisposed to so many genetic diseases is because not only are there 3 distinct sizes of Poodle in this breed, the large count of disease is a reflection of the popularity of this dog breed. By and large a good rule of thumb is, the more popular a dog breed the greater the number of genetic diseases inherent in that breed.

6. Several popular dog breeds are linked to over 100 genetic diseases.

7. These days dog breeders spend well over $500,000,000 annually in an effort to address this disturbing trend of genetic disease in man’s best friend.

As it is all the various dog breeds that exist today were artificially created; in other words each and every dog breed was selectively bred for a particular trait, be it coat color, coat length, sniffing ability, shortness of stature (miniatures), facial appearance and so forth…the list is virtually endless. The means by which those desired traits were obtained was to selectively breed that population of dogs that most strongly exhibited the desired trait; a breeding strategy that is otherwise known as inbreeding!

Gene Pool And Population Factors

A population may be described as a breeding group that possesses gene continuity from one generation to the next. Currently a growing body of dog experts believe that the dog evolved as a new species from the wolf to occupy a developing niche about 15,000 years ago. That developing niche revolved around human waste dumps; opportunistic wolves began inhabiting those waste dumps for easily available food supplies.

All told, 15,000 years on the evolutionary scale is an extremely brief period for a new species to evolve from another, suggesting that there must have been a considerable amount of inbreeding amongst those opportunistic waste-dump-frequenting wolves to propagate the tameness trait in so short a time span! Compounding this issue of limited genetic pool, a growing number of dog researchers now believe that the original genetic ancestry of the dog evolved from only three female wolves that inhabited China several thousand years ago (the so called eves of dog evolution).

The important point to note here is that even before mankind began his intensive trait-specific breeding program of the dog, and due to its unorthodox super-accelerated evolution, the dog gene pool right from the get go was rather limited!

Development Of A Dog Breed

By its very nature the development of a new dog breed involves a considerable amount of inbreeding to magnify and evolve the desired trait(s) characteristic of that new breed. However this process results in a considerable number of undesired results. If we consider the Dalmatian, a breed of dog characterized by its distinctive pattern of spots, somewhere along the line during that process of selecting for the spotted pattern trait, Dalmatian dog breeders unknowingly and unintentionally also bred this dog for an abnormal uric acid gene!

By the time people realized that there was a very serious problem in the Dalmatian, this dog breed was homozygous for the abnormal uric acid gene! (Homozygous refers to identical pairs of genes that manifest as an observable trait as opposed to non-identical gene pairs known as heterozygous that confer no observable trait; i.e., recessives). This unwanted side effect means that Dalmatians are perhaps the only breed of dog that is predisposed to urine stones (from excessive levels of uric acid), a debilitating urinary tract condition. In an effort to rectify this problem the Dalmatian line was subsequently crossbred with various Pointer breeds to eliminate the inherent homozygotic uric acid gene whilst still maintaining the spotted pattern that defines the Dalmatian dog.

Gene Linkage

The abnormal elevated levels of uric acid in the Dalmatian associated with the spotting-pattern gene, is a classic case of gene linkage. Linkage is said to occur when genes expressing different properties are located on the same chromosome and are inherited as a unit. In fact the occurrence of gene linkage probably explains how the dog morphologically (shape wise) differentiated from the wolf so dramatically and so quickly; the gene that expressed the tameness trait was linked to genes that expressed other properties such as floppy ears, change in coat color, barking or simply put properties characteristic of today’s domesticated dog.

The bottom line here is that selective breeding for a particular trait (as happens whenever a new dog breed is being developed) carries the inherent risk of magnifying the expression of unwanted defective genes that would otherwise rarely occur under natural circumstances.

Genetic Diversity

During the process of natural selection genetic diversity is maintained, but contrastingly in selective breeding the opposite holds true; genetic diversity is reduced! Recent studies have revealed that genetic variation occurs frequently in normal populations of any species and that even those genes that are deleterious and defective are preserved in the gene pool as so-called recessive genes (recessive gene traits are not visibly apparent unlike dominant genes). It is now believed that such genetic variability confers adaptive properties to a population in the event of extreme environmental change.

Thus mutative genes that confer minimal benefit today could play a significant future role in the survival of the species in which it occurs. This could explain why defective or mutative genes are preserved as recessive genes in a population’s gene pool. A good example illustrating the beneficial role recessive genes can confer to a population is the case of the English Peppered moth.

Like a large number of insects the Peppered moth relies on its color to camouflage it from predators. The dominantly prevalent grayish color of the Peppered moth allows it to blend in with its environment which so happen to be tree trunks and lichen of like color. Although lighter and darker shades of the moth exist, few of such individuals survive for the simple reason their camouflaging abilities are less effective.

However with the advent of the industrial revolution in the late 19th century the resultant pollution darkened the tree trunks such that the minority recessive trait which conferred a darker shade of gray to the moths became dominant because such moths were then better able to avoid predation. As pollution levels subsequently decreased the tree trunks gradually reverted to their normal color and so also did the color of the Peppered moth revert back to its pre-industrialization gray. Thus once again the recessive dark-gray color in the moth reverted to its usual minority role!

Combating Dog Genetic Disease

Because almost every single dog possesses at least 4 defective genes (no matter whether it’s a purebred or mixed breed) unless strong active measures are taken the problem of dog genetic disease can only get worse. Such strong effective measures by necessity require the participation of everyday dog owners and not just dog breeders or dog researchers!

Dog Genome Project Wants Your Dog’s Blood!

The Canine Genome Sequencing Project (Dog Genome Project based at the Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT in Boston) has sequenced the dog genome in its entirety. One of their priority goals now is to identify the genes responsible for causing dog genetic diseases, defective genes, carrier states of hereditary disease and much more. Through using the powerful resource of the sequenced dog genome, the good folks at the Dog Genome Project hope to reverse the widespread prevalence of genetic disease in dogs worldwide.

However to achieve that noble goal they need your help! How?

Well the only means by which recessive genes and carrier states can be identified is at the genetic level (genotype) and not by visual observation of recognizable morphological traits (phenotype). To do this the Dog Genome Project staff need a large number of dog samples to analyze and that is where you, as a dog owner, can play a significant role by sending them a blood sample of your dog.

More about the dog

For more information about how to help alleviate dog genetic disease go to:

http://www.broad.mit.edu/mammals/dog

A Short History of the Popular Dog Breed – Dalmatians

First references to Dalmatians as a breed of dogs are found in history since mid 18th century. However, the breed was well known throughout the world long before the 18th century. Spotted dogs of the same size and type have been found in paintings, engravings, models and early writings. These dogs were commonly found in Africa, Asia and Europe. These dogs probably accompanied ancient gypsies, which can explain their vast spread and popularity. The term Dalmatians is derived from the place of origin of the dogs, a region known as Dalmatia. Dalmatia is located in the Adriatic region in Western Yugoslavia.

Although a favorite pet of man since ancient times, Dalmatians became truly famous after the elite class of Great Britain brought them home. The upper class of the British society used to tour Europe in the 18th century. They often brought back these spotted dogs. The breed attracted attention of the masses due to its striking looks. The English aristocracy used the Dalmatians to accompany their horse drawn carriages. They were placed below the rear axle of the coach. They also trotted below the pole separate the two horses. Many a times, they led the procession by trotting ahead the horse up front. Such impressive sights and feats drew the attention of the public and made the breed even more popular.

Another reason why Dalmatians are very popular is that they are firehouse dogs. Dalmatians were used in 18th century England as ratters. They were experts in locating and killing the rats that infested the stables and firehouses of London. The Dalmatians loved horses and fire engines and their role expanded to include racing along with or ahead of the fire engines when the alarm was sounded. The dogs became associated with fire engines and firemen. Even today, you can find many Dalmatians ride on fire trucks. They are still considered as mascots of firemen and are found in the firehouses in Great Britain, United States and other countries as well.

Dalmatians captured the hearts of the public by performing their duties with diligence and dedication during the war times. Dalmatians were preferred for sentinel duty during the wars. They also served as draft dogs and dogs for the shepherds.

Dalmatians are very commonly used in circus shows. Dalmatians are intelligent animals and have the aptitude for learning tricks. Their showy appearance also makes them very popular. They are used as assistants for the clowns. Needless to say, they are a hit with children.

Some tips for feeding your adult Dalmatian dog

Given below are some tips and guidelines related to the diet of adult Dalmatians. These tips and guidelines are the result of various researches conducted over the years.

One should not feed any organ meat such as liver, sweetbreads, brains, kidneys or any such organ in any form to the adult Dalmatian. Organ meat should not be given raw or cooked or as an ingredient in any food or snack.

One should not feed any game meat such as venison or elk meat in any form.

The History of Dalmatians in Britain

The past century has seen growth of a strong bond between British dog lovers and the Dalmatian. Dog lovers have propounded a theory that the Dalmatians descended from the early English hunting hounds. The similarity between Dalmatians and Talbot breed in type, character and hunting ability has led to claims that the Dalmatians actually descended from the Talbot breed. Such is the desire of the British dog lovers to claim the breed as their own.

The theory is not as incredible as it sounds. There always is the possibility that some Talbot dogs may have bred with European dogs a few centuries ago and one resulting breed was the Dalmatian. Dalmatians are very intelligent and are good guard dogs. This may have caught the eye of British tourists and the breed returned back home with them. It is beyond doubt that Dalmatians existed in the ancient period as well as the breed has undergone numerous evolutions.

In 1860, Dalmatians made its official debut in a dog show competition. It was one of the five breeds to participate in the second dog show held in Britain in the year 1860.During the First World War, from the beginning of the was in 1914 to the Armistice in 1918, the Dalmatians were in danger of being wiped out from Britain due to the war. Mr. Fred Kemp, who was the President of the British Dalmatian Club and, more importantly, a third generation owner of Dalmatians kept the dogs alive through the difficult times and ensured that the Dalmatians did not become a casualty of the war.

The dogs saved by Mr. Fred Kemp were used as breeding stock after the war and the population of Dalmatians grew. In 1918, there were just two Dalmatians registered with the Kennel Club. The two Dalmatians participated in the dog show which resumed after World War I. This number grew to 125 by 1925 and further to 889 by 1932. In 1934, there were 199 Dalmatian entries for the dog show. This was proof enough of the consistent rise in the popularity of the breed.

Some More Guidelines on the Diet of Your Adult Dalmatian

Researches over the years have given us the following guidelines about the diet of adult Dalmatians.

One must never feed red meat, either in cooked form or raw form or as an ingredient in any pet snack or pet food. One must avoid those pet snacks and pet food which lists red meat as one of its first three ingredients.
One must never feed poultry meat, either in cooked form or raw form or as an ingredient in any pet snack or pet food. One must avoid those pet snacks and pet food which lists poultry meat as one of its first two ingredients.

Snacks for adult Dalmatians must consist of lots of fruits, vegetables and grains. However, avoid high purine vegetables like mushroom, asparagus, legumes, oatmeal, spinach and cauliflower.

Adult Dalmatians must be fed dog foods like corn, which is most preferred, wheat, second in preference and rice, which should be last preferred of the three. These contain about 22% low purine protein and only 10% fats.

Great Dalmatian care Tips And Information

It is very important that you provide just the right home to your Dalmatian. Dogs have carried over from their ancient ancestors the instinct to use a den for comfort and security. If you can harness this instinct you will not only add a wonderful tool to teach manners in the home, but will also give your dog a place to go when feeling stressed or tired.

The majority of new pet owners misinterpret the purpose of a dog crate. In fact, a crate really is a wonderful tool when used correctly. It is not used to punish a puppy. Crate training can be fun for the puppy if you make it a positive experience. The basic idea behind crate training dogs is that whenever you aren’t able to supervise your dog or aren’t home, the dog goes in the crate.

When you have a new puppy or dog, you will use a crate to limit his admission to the entire house until he learns all the house rules. A crate is also a secure way of transporting your dog in the car, as well as an opportunity to take him places where it may not be appropriate for him to run without restraint. Another surprising advantage: dogs who are afraid of thunderstorms or fireworks, often find refuge in their familiar crate/den.

Also very important, the crate needs to be in a place where your dog will not feel as if he is part of the family and not isolated. You can locate the crate in the kitchen/dining room, usually the most occupied area of the house.

Make sure it doesn’t become the equivalent of a prison for your dog! Giving the pup special “treats” is a perfect way to introduce him to his crate. The only time the puppy receives these special treats is when he is in the crate; so the treats become associated with the crate. Remember though, repetition is essential. Your puppy will not understand what you want unless you repeatedly show him exactly what is required of him.

If a dog is correctly trained to love his den, his instinct will be to keep it clean. This is the foremost reason why a crate works in potty training. An attractive crate makes for a welcoming den – a comfy blanket, tasty treats, and a favorite toy help to make the pup comfortable.

Remember though, crate is not a magical solution. If not used correctly, a dog will feel trapped and frustrated. As an example, if your dog is crated all day while you’re at work and then crated again all night, he’s definitely spending far too much time in much too small a space. Also remember that puppies under six months of age should never stay in a crate for more than three or four hours at a stretch. They can’t control their functions for longer periods.

You need to be certain the crate is the correct size for the pup/dog. If it is too big, the pup may try to use part of it as a bathroom and this is something you definitely need to avoid. The crate needs to be big enough to allow the dog to stand up and lie down comfortably. Crates may be plastic (often referred to as flight kennels) or collapsible, metal pens.

But, the crates that are most preferred are the wooden ones with removable side panels, which are ideal for cold weather where the panels in place to keep out drafts and in hot weather where the panels are removed to allow better air circulation. You can buy flat pads for the bottom of crates to keep your dog comfortable, since lying on uneven plastic is not a feel-good event, particularly for older dogs.

Dalmatian Dog Breed

Of all the dogs, the Dalmatian is easily spotted by its characteristic black spotted features. How these black spots evolved remains a puzzle. The Dalmatian is a European breed, first discovered in Western Yugoslavia. In the USA the Dalmatian was first introduced about 120 years ago and still remains one of the most popular dogs as a pet.

One of the great features of the Dalmatian is its energy level and ability to exercise for long duration. The Dalmatian is not a pet for a small apartment because it needs a lot of room. Training this dog is not difficult but does require a great deal of patience. Training can be difficult at times because the dog often tends to become stubborn. While the Dalmatian does make a great pet dog, it often does get ill tempered with other dogs. Ironically, it is quite friendly with other animals like cats and even horses. For those families with children, the Dalmatian should not be the first pet as it is full of energy and though not intentional, it can be a little rough with small children. However, if the dog is well trained it can make a great loving pet. Despite its size and energy, the dog will rarely harm a child or the owner.

Upkeep and Maintenance

The Dalmatian is one dog that needs regular exercise and thus, it is more suited for people who are active. Simply taking the Dalmatian out to poop will not be adequate as it prefers to go for long outdoor runs. The majority of Dalmatian owners indicate that it makes a great jogging companion. When you first buy the Dalmatian as a puppy it will gladly live in the apartment, but as soon as it grows, it will let you know where it wants to go. Throwing a ball in the park is another way to provide exercise for them as well.

The Dalmatian prefers the cool temperate weather more so than the hot humid climate. When outside, one has to make sure that it is provided with lots of water and a shade to rest under. The dog does tend to become attached to humans and loves people company. Even though the Dalmatian loves the outdoors, it also prefers to be with humans once inside the home.

Health Information

While the Dalmatian generally is disease free, it does suffer from deafness with age. Other common medical ailments that may afflict the dog include an under active thyroid gland, allergies, visual problems and seizures. While CHD has been reported, it is very rare and no where near as common as what occurs in rotteweillers. All Dalmatian owners are recommended that the dog be checked regularly by a veterinarian to screen for the above mentioned health problems

The majority of pet dalmatians live at least 12- 15 years. There are even reports of some Dalmatians living a lot longer. While comparisons are difficult, the dog can be as loving and gentle as a Labrador when it is well trained.

Information And Advice On The Dalmatian Dog Breed

The Dalmatian is an energetic dog that was bred to run. She will not do well in an apartment unless the owner is a jogger or person able to allow her several long, hard walks a day. A properly fenced in backyard with a place to stay warm in winter and access to the house and human companionship is ideal. Or, since she seems to love horses, another ideal environment might be a horse farm.

She may not do well with younger children due to her high activity and she may play too hard and nip. As a reminder, never leave a young child unsupervised with a puppy or dog. She can do well with other pets as long as she is socialized early with them. They may do poorly with other dogs or other dogs of the same sex.

Approximate Adult Size

The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Dalmatian is 22 to 24 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder). The female ranges from 20 to 22 inches to the withers and either sex weighs somewhere from 50 to 55 pounds.

Special Health Considerations

Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Dalmatian is no exception. Be on the look out for inherited deafness (up to 10% or more of Dalmatian puppies are born deaf and this can make a puppy fearful and snappy), skin allergies, cataracts, and urinary stones. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

Grooming

The Dalmatian coat is close fitting, fine short and dense. She is a shedder, especially during spring and fall. She should be brushed regularly to minimize shedding. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

Life Span

The Dalmatian can live between 11 and 13 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

History

The Dalmatian comes from the former Yugoslavia. The actual name Dalmatia is a region on the Adriatic Sea. The Brisish popularized the breed using her as a watchdog, shepherd, draft dog, bird dog, ratter, circus performer etc. The most famous Dalmatians were in the Disney movie, 101 Dalmatians. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1888.

The Dalmatian Dog Breed Profile

A Dalmatian is a breed of dog known for its black spots which cover its white coat. In the United States, Dalmatians are often portrayed as firehouse dogs.

A popular breed, Dalmatians are midsized, muscular and have great endurance. Dalmatians’ coats are dense, short and very fine. The base color of this breed is white, with round spots in black or brown. A Dalmatians feet are small and round and their nails are either the same color of their spots or white. The color of their nose also depends on the color of the spots that they have. The eyes of a Dalmatian share an intelligent expression and are either brown or blue. The ears are high and thin and are close to the dog’s head. Spots on Dalmatians come later, as Dalmatian puppies are born fully white.

The Dalmatian breed was named after Dalmatia, an area in the Venetia Republic, in the 18th century. The breed’s origin is not known for sure, but it is believed to be either Yugoslavia, Egypt, Greece, or Rome.

At 22 to 24 inches tall and about 55 pounds, the dog breed is known for being a working dog. Although not specialized in one area, often Dalmatians herded and hunted. It was also used as a carriage dog – a type of dog who used to run next to a carriage and clear the way, help control horses and to guard the carriage. With training, Dalmatians can gain a high level of obedience.

As past history of being a carriage dog shows, the Dalmatian breed is active and needs exercise. Though they may be too rough and big for younger kids, they are good companions for teens with their playful attitude. They need companionship and affection too, as they can become depressed. Dalmatians are known as having good memories and being loyal and kind.

Unfortunately, some Dalmatians (about 10%) tend to have hereditary deafness, which is somewhat common in all-white breeds. There is a strong relationship between blue eyes and deafness, too. The average lifespan of a Dalmatian is 10 to 12 years. Dalmatians also suffer from a lack of uricase, an enzyme which breaks down uric acid. Without this enzyme, uric acid can cause bladder stones or gout, as it builds up in joints. To reduce the likelihood of stones, owners should not feed Dalmatians organ meats.

The Dalmatian breed got very popular after the 1956 novel “The Hundred and One Dalmatians” and the Disney animated film with the same name. Sadly, some owners bought Dalmatians because of the film but were unaware of the high amount of exercise that Dalmatians need. Dalmatians even like to swim, but owners must be careful as wet ears can cause an ear infection.

Although they are easy to keep breed, Dalmatians need to be frequently brushed to deal with the constant shedding. Their nails also need to be kept trimmed as they tend to grow quickly. However, they only needs baths when necessary as they have no doggy odor and like to stay clean.

The Dalmatian Dog Breed Essential Information

Dalmatians were well known as a carriage dog and so they were also known as Spotted Coach-dogs. Evidence shows that possibly the breed existed centuries before it was named in the 18th century. There is 4000-year-old Greek art showing dogs that look much like modern Dalmatians. The Dalmatian dog breed’s popularity surged with the 1956 novel The Hundred and One Dalmatians by Dodie Smith, and also the Disney film based on the book.

Their size allowed them to fit under the rear axle of the coach, where they often ran. Their stamina allowed them to keep up with the horses and guard dog tendencies allowed the owners to leave the coach without worrying about their possessions. It was often said that a coach was better left in the care of the dogs than the coachman, who could easily be distracted by highway robbers.

The Dalmatian is most famous for being the firehouse dog. This probably started in London where they were first acquired as “ratters”, to kill vermin in London’s stables and firehouses. Soon they were running alongside the fire engine. To this day, many firehouses in Great Britain and the USA have a Dalmatian, although now, they are more likely to been seen riding on the fire truck instead of along side it.

The breed’s first appearance in a dog show was in Great Britain in 1860. The first American shows appearance was in 1926, when the Dalmatian Club of American held its first National Specialty Show.

The exact time and location of the dog’s origin are unknown. However, because Dalmatians appear in an Italian wall painting dated about 1360 A.D. and because these spotted dogs were named after Dalmatia, an Adriatic coastal region, one may

assume that they originated somewhere in this area. But, it wasn’t until 1780 when the name “Dalmatian” was used in the English language.

In the 1700′s, Dalmatians were used to protect horses that pulled English stagecoaches. Typically two Dalmatians would run next to the horses as they pulled the coach. When other dogs tried to run out and scare the horses, the Dalmatian team would chase them away. Over the years, Dalmatians formed a close bond with horses. During this time, horse theft was very common. Because of the potential for theft, stagecoach drivers would typically sleeping a hammock strung between two stalls where they would watch for thieves. However, because of the bond between the Dalmatians and the horses, the driver could sleep in a hotel or house if he owned a Dalmatian.

The Dalmatians would sleep with the horses and guard against horse theft. It is during the era of horse drawn fire apparatus that the Dalmatian becomes forever tied to the Fire Service. These fire house horses were required to spend hours at a time at a fire scene, or hours inside the fire house waiting for a call, and despite many misbelieves, these fire house horses were not broken down old hags, but fine spirited horses.

Chew Toys for Your Dalmatian Puppy

Chewing is normal for all puppies. It is their hereditary way of communicating within the litter. You should have some chew toys for the puppy to use in order to replace undesirable chewing tendencies. If your Dalmatian puppy goes for the TV knobs, give him a 1/4in diameter composite chewing log.

All Dalmatians are incredibly efficient at destroying chew toys. The only one that is apparently indestructible is the beehive-shaped rubber toy, which lasts for years around both pups and adults, and they enjoy chewing them. An inexpensive thing that puppies will play with for days before they start to wear it out is a plastic pop bottle. If you keep the cap on, the container is too large to get a good grip on and the puppies will use it as a giant hockey puck whenever they see it.

Another caution with regard to chewing has to do with house, yard, and garden plants. Identify the vegetation you have and call your vet, a plant expert, or maybe even do your own research and find out whether your plants are toxic to dogs. They will chew on rocks, too, especially ones about as big as your thumb that are fun to toss around in their mouths. If you catch them doing this, take the rock from them and get rid of it, telling them “No!” Some Dalmatians will get carried away with sloshing them around in their mouths and before they know it, they swallow them.

There are also foods that are toxic to dogs. Teaching a Dalmatian what is and is not permissible to chew is generally a process that lasts the lifetime of the dog. They are constantly discovering new things to chew. As a final note on chewing, though it is cute to have the puppy untie your shoelaces or clamp surprisingly sharp puppy teeth on your fingers, it is not cute for a sixty-pound adult to do the same things.

If you want a well-behaved adult Dalmatian, do not allow your puppy to continue his “chewing communication” with you. When he comes up and puts his mouth on anything that you would not allow an adult to bite or chew, catch him in the act of starting to bite the object and snap him on the end of the nose with your index finger, and tell him clearly out yelling “No!”

This kind of correction will startle the puppy more than anything else, and you will find that he will direct his attention somewhere else almost immediately. Be generous with your praise

when he changes his focus of activity. If you are consistent with this form of correction at an early age, you will wind up with a very well-mannered Dalmatian.

Getting To Know Your Dalmatian

The owner of a Dalmatian has to be smart and consistent with regard to rules of behavior. This consistency is also required of everyone else in the household, because if the dog discovers that one person in the household allows him to do a certain thing, such as jump up while the other household members do not, he will generalize this discovery to the entire human population. Therefore, he will try jumping up on visitors and strangers on the street, thinking that at least some people will allow him to jump up.

The Dalmatian’s natural persistence, tenacity and inventiveness could make him a nuisance in the hands of a lazy or unresponsive owner. Just like small children, Dalmatians’ will get your attention, one way or another. But as soon as they get your attention, they do not always know what to do with it.

Sometimes they give the cutest looking apologetic grin imaginable. One of the curious characteristics of the Dalmatian is the ability to “smile.” To some people it appears more like an ear-to-ear silent snarl than a look of glee, and to others it appears to be an embarrassed grin. In any case, when some Dalmatians get flustered, they draw up their lips and pull back the edges of their mouths, exposing almost every tooth in the same movement that people use to smile, but they are not laughing.

Dalmatians’ have a smile that usually appears just after they have been discovered in the kitchen with the contents of an entire garbage can carefully spread all over the floor, or when their owner uses a scolding tone of voice. He will then lower his head and often slink while displaying the look. The reason why it is hard to tell whether they are smiling is that they are bright enough to be suspicious whenever anything goes awry.

One of the things they love to do in an open area is play their form of dodge ball to where they use their bodies as the ball. They will run away to about twenty-five to thirty yards and then come rushing back straight at either another dog or you, running at full tilt for a direct hit, and missing by a fraction of an inch. Their goal is to get as frighteningly close to you as possible without hitting you. Your role is to stand completely still, without flinching while he whizzes by without crashing into you.

Keep in mind that the Dalmatian’s amazing capacity for physical activity and endurance seem to be matched by amazing bursts of genius as well. They will test your patience and keep you on your toes, though they are also as devoted as they are intelligent.

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