k9waggingtails
Posted : 12/11/2007 8:01:46 PM
Dals are generally naturally good watchdogs (keep in mind that they were coach dogs, bred to guard carriages). Give her some time (it may take a month or two) to get comfortable and accustomed to you and your house. In the meantime, build your relationship with her...train her, give her structure, take walks together, and so on.
Dalmatians generally stay active into old age. I would expect that your girl, if you keep her in shape, should be able to keep up with you for a while yet.
Clicker training! Dalmatians respond well to positive training, and they're intelligent dogs. Take her to a class or two. You might also put her into agility classes for fun.
Where is your girl from? You mentioned that she's a retired show dog, so I'm curious. :)
-Lindsay and Grady the Dalmatian