How to Care for a Dalmatian - Exercising Your Dalmatian

1. Schedule daily exercise with your Dalmatian. Dalmatians are athletic and full of energy. Without an outlet for all of that energy, Dalmatians can become bored and destructive.[11] Make time each day to exercise and play with your Dalmatian. Not only will he be able to release all of the pent-up energy, but he will also get some much-needed attention from you.
- Allot at least 30 minutes of daily exercise with your Dalmatian.[12]
- For puppies, break the total exercise time into smaller segments to allow for rest.[13]

2. Engage in high-energy activities with your Dalmatians. Your Dalmatian is no slouch—he would love to go on a long-distance run, hike through the woods, or even take a long swim.[14][15][16] If you enjoy vigorous activity, then a Dalmatian is a great dog for you!
- If you have a puppy, wait until he is about 18 months old before taking him for a run. A puppy’s joints need time to develop, and engaging him in vigorous activity before his body is fully developed can lead to injury and orthopedic problems.[17]
- Dalmatians also do well in dog performance events, such as Agility, Coursing and Tracking.[18] Training for these events would be great exercise for your Dalmatian.
- Your Dalmatian wouldn’t mind some lower-energy activities too, such as a casual stroll.[19]

3. Play with your Dalmatian. There are many playful activities to keep your Dalmatian physically active. Whichever activity you choose, make sure it allows you to have quality one-on-one time with him.[20] For example, play fetch with your Dalmatian.[21]
- Teaching your Dalmatian new tricks is another great way to play with him. Teach him tricks like playing dead, grabbing paw, and rolling over.
- If you have an enclosed backyard, consider creating an obstacle course for him to jump over and run through things.[22]
- Your Dalmatian has a sense of humor, so don’t be surprised if he comes up with things to make you laugh.[23] He may come up with a trick on his own, just to see you laugh!
- Don’t forget to give your Dalmatian plenty of toys to play with.