Care guide
Dalmatian care
There's no guide just for Dalmatian yet. Here's caring for non-sporting dogs; ask the seller about anything specific to this breed.
- Group
- Non-sporting
- Size
- Large, 20–32 kg
- Typical lifespan
- 11–13 years
- Exercise needs
- High
- Grooming
- Low
- Shedding
- High
- Ask the breeder about
- hips, hearing, eyes, thyroid
The non-sporting group is a mix of breeds that don't fit the other groups, from bulldogs and poodles to Dalmatians and Shiba Inus. Their needs vary widely, so learn about your breed in particular.
A varied group
Energy, size and coat range from the calm Bulldog to the athletic Dalmatian and Standard Poodle. Read your breed's facts on its page, and ask the breeder what the parents are like day to day.
Flat-faced breeds
Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers have short noses and can struggle to breathe, especially in heat or when excited. Look for breeders who have the parents' breathing graded, keep your dog lean and cool, and use a harness.
Many flat-faced dogs need surgery to give birth and can't tolerate long exercise. Talk to your vet about what's normal for your dog.
Coat care
Poodles, Bichons and similar coats keep growing and don't shed much; they need professional grooming every 4 to 8 weeks and brushing in between. Spitz breeds like the Keeshond and Shiba Inu shed heavily a couple of times a year.
Health to ask about
Ask about the tests the breed club suggests: for example hearing tests in Dalmatians, breathing grading in flat-faced breeds, and hips, eyes and DNA tests in poodles.
Further reading
General information to help you prepare, not veterinary advice. Every animal is different: ask an experienced vet about yours. Reviewed by PerfectPal on October 13, 2026.