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Bringing home a new family member is epic—there’s nothing quite like it. But once you’ve narrowed down the breed you want, it’s time to start planning for the future.
Dalmatians are a unique canine breed. It’s easy to choose them because of their spotty appearance and history. However, because issues like deafness are common in the breed, they might need a few extra accommodations.
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The 15 Essential Dalmatian Supplies
Walking & Travel
Dalmatians are athletic dogs with lean muscle tone and a lust for adventure. They will want to come along on walks, jogs, hikes—and, naturally, trips to the dog park.
So, here are a few supplies you’ll need to take your dog on outings.
1. Leash
Leash training is an essential aspect of overall obedience. A leash is necessary for so many reasons, and it will take your pup a while to learn the ropes.
Some leashes accompany collars or harnesses, while others are sold as a solo item. Choose the style based on your dog and your comfort.
There are several different types of leashes to choose from. They are made from nylon, leather, rope, cotton, and other fabrics.
You can also buy a few different styles like:
2. Harness
Harnesses are ideal items you buy to walk your dog. These harnesses aren’t meant to wear all the time but are useful for a leash attachment.
These items put even pressure on the chest and distribute force to prevent choking or trachea damage. Some of them come with a back handle to provide optimal control, which is vital for young Dalmatians.
3. Collars with ID Tag
Collars are incredibly important for dogs. Microchipping is fantastic, but there’s nothing like having your dog’s information attached to their body. Even though most professionals don’t recommend walking your dog with a collar, they are a prime spot for identification tags.
Mealtime
Mealtime might be one of your Dalmatian’s favorite activities during the day. And when that dog food hits the bowl, your dog is likely to come running. When it comes to diet, and the supplies needed to feed, here are a few items you can guarantee need to be on your shopping list.
4. Bowls
You’re definitely going to need somewhere to put your dog’s kibble and water. You might think that getting food and water bowls will be an easy task until you realize the immense multitude of products out there.
Dog bowls are typically made out of stainless steel, ceramic, plastic, and silicone. They can come in all shapes and sizes, suitable for small and giant breeds.
5. Dog Food
Food is one of the most important aspects of care for your new Dalmatian. They are full of energy and vitality, meaning they will require a high protein, moderate carbohydrate meal designed for their particular life stage: puppy, adult, or senior.
There are tons of recipes and textures to choose from. You can also select a type of food, whether dry kibble, wet, fresh, or raw. Some pups will have allergies or health issues that require a specialized diet.
And of course, no matter what style of bowl you choose, your Dalmatian will need a fresh water source at all times.
6. Trays & Mats
If your dog food bowls didn’t come with a tray or mat, you might want to pick one up. Dalmatians can be fast and messy eaters. You can find mats readily available online and in-store—and they don’t have to be designed for that purpose.
Any rug or mat will do, but some are specifically created to absorb spills and contain messes. There are a few selections on Chewy.
7. Storage
Storage is a pretty easily missed but necessary component for food (and even belongings.) You can buy trays, canisters, containers, totes, and other bins to keep food fresh and store it out of the way.
Comfort
Your Dalmatian will love cozying up in their downtime. Having suitable comfort materials is an essential part of dog-owning. You can find endless options online when it comes to bedding, but you can also create your own if you’re feeling crafty. There are tons of DIY tutorials online.
8. Dog Bed
Your dog will spend a lot of time in their bed. Certain dogs have preferences, while others need materials to help them with their joints and bones.
You can pick from comfy materials like plush, orthopedic foam, memory foam, eggshell foam, and standard polyfill.
9. Couch Cover
If you aren’t a fan of dog hair all over your belongings, you can always purchase couch covers to protect your fabrics. It might be beneficial to prevent messes, accidents, and destruction during the puppy training stage.
10. Blankets
Some dogs love snuggling up in a blanket, and others could do without them. If you find that your Dalmatian loves being cozy, getting their own blanket will make them feel right at home.
Playtime
Mental and physical stimulation is very crucial for Dalmatians. This active breed needs to be challenged so they can feel accomplished. Because of that, you’ll need lots of self-play and interactive games for them to enjoy.
11. Toys & Activities
There are tons of toys and fun activities on the market. Here are just a few.
Grooming
Because Dalmatians have coarse, short coats, brushing is a breeze. But to remove dirt, debris, and dander, you will need to give your Dalmatian a good brushing every few days.
In addition, you’ll need other cleaning and grooming supplies on hand. You should thoroughly bathe your Dalmatian once every 4 to 6 weeks.
12. Shampoo/Conditioner
Shampoo is essential; conditioner is optional but still effective. Your Dalmatian, like other dogs, will need a bathing session once every 4 to 6 weeks.
13. Brush/Comb
Your Dalmatian won’t need a ton of fancy brushing. Just a few quick swipes to remove dead hair as dander will suffice.
14. Toothbrush
Dental health is an important and often overlooked aspect of canine care. Daily brushing is essential to remove plaque and reduce tartar buildup.
15. Nail Clipper
Nail clippers are necessary—and you’ll know it when your bare legs get a good scratch.
Special-Needs Supplies
Some Dalmatians have a congenital defect—deafness. While this may have won many of them positions in the firehouse, it can be challenging to handle from the standpoint of owning a pet.
While Dalmations have genetics to thank for their spotted coats, this also is the reason behind their high incidence of deafness in one or both ears. An estimated 30% of Dalmatians have some level of deafness.
If you find yourself with a deaf Dalmatian, you might find ways to accommodate them. Remember that genetic deafness is entirely normal to the dog, as they know nothing else. It’s never a cause to put an animal down or rehome them.
Many puppies have already been tested by the time they come home. So, if you do have a deaf Dalmatian, you can prep before bringing them home from the breeder.
Conclusion
Don’t stress out too much, future puppy owner. Getting the beginning supplies together is usually the most challenging part. Once your Dalmatian settles in their new home, everything else will come second nature.
If your pup needs a little extra help, prepare for additional expenses along the way.
Featured Image Credit: absolutimages, Shutterstock
