| Height | 19-24 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 45-70 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 11–13+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Dignified / Outgoing / Smart [1] |
| AKC group | Non-Sporting Group [1] |
| Origin | Dalmatia (today, Croatia) [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 50 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
All Dalmatians need regular exercise to stay fit and happy. This exercise can consist of chasing a ball tossed across the backyard, running alongside a biking or jogging owner, or taking a nice, long hike through the woods. Since a puppy's bones and joints aren't at their mature strength until two years of age, be wary of strenuously exercising the dog before then. [1]
Grooming
The Dalmatian's coat is a thing of beauty with its colored spots on a sparkling white background, and it doesn't take much work to keep it in good condition. Occasional baths and weekly brushing with a horsehair mitt or rubber curry comb to pull away dead hairs will keep the Dal looking his best. His nails should be trimmed at least monthly. [1]
Health issues to budget for
If your Dalmatian came from a reputable breeder, you will have a record of genetic health testing done on the parents. Deafness is present in the breed, and responsible breeders will have had the parents tested and will have entire litters tested to be certain that all can hear. A unilaterally hearing dog (deaf in one ear) can usually lead a fairly normal life; a bilaterally (both sides) deaf dog often cannot and will require special considerations. Kidney stones are also present in Dals. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, BAER Testing. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Dalmatian in 1888. [1]
- It ranked No. 50 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 62 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Dal, Coach Dog.” [1]
- The AKC lists Dalmatia (today, Croatia) as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 2 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, BAER Testing. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Anyone who hates vacuuming: AKC rates shedding 4/5
Common questions
How long do Dalmatians live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 11-13 years.
How big does a Dalmatian get?
AKC breed information lists height 19-24 inches and weight 45-70 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Dalmatian?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Dalmatian, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.