Pwca
Posted : 9/27/2007 11:36:25 AM
I'd recommend joining the ShowDals list- PM springingpups on here or PM me and remind me and I'll get you the subscription info. I was never a big fan of Dals until I started meeting more well-bred dogs- the ones I have met from shelters varied from 'okay but dumb' to 'psychotically unstable/why on earth did they place this dog?'
Dals *can* be prey driven but well-bred ones typically aren't, and although there are lines known for animal aggressive temperament, many aren't, and it's atypical in well-bred dogs. They *do* typically respond better to their family- everyone else can pretty much f*-off. :P But they are polite about it. :)
One thing to remember about Dals is that they are a guarding breed- despite their pointery appearance, they were bred to guard carriages on the road. Extensive socialization is a must, and most resent heavy-handed training and do very well with clicker or lure/reward training. While they *can* be one family dogs, they're adaptable- Springingpups' Dalmatian service dog Grady didn't come to her until age 3 when he retired from the show ring! They *can* be good with kids, other dogs, and other pets- but it's important to make sure you socialize them well. Dal rescue has, thankfully, come down in numbers considerably from 10 years ago. BYBs are still out there, though. Check out Dashing Dalmatians (Lindsay's adorable Robin is from them), Ravin Dalmatians (who bred Grady and have produced a number of Dals who have gone on to be service dogs), and Paisley Dalmatians (well-known overall) for examples of what health testing and titling reputable Dal breeders are doing. And for folks who don't think dalmatians are trainable or versatile?
Check out Alvin - http://www.lakeshoredals.com/Alvin.html -
UOCh, Can MOTCh, CH, OTCh.
MACH Lakeshore's The Alvinator UDX
21... Dals rule!
:)