How to Care for a Dalmatian - Feeding Your Dalmatian

Dalmatians are dogs that originated in Dalmatia (a province of Croatia). They are famous for being associated with firefighters, Dodie Smith novels, and Disney movies. Dalmatians are also athletic, high-energy dogs that love being around people and are well-suited for families.[1][2] If you are thinking about owning a Dalmatian, take some time to learn about how to care for one so you can be the best dog owner you can be for your dog.

1. Feed your Dalmatian a low-protein diet. Among dog breeds, Dalmatians are uniquely susceptible to developing stones in their urinary tracts, a condition called urolithiasis. Protein can contribute to the development of these stones, so it is a good idea to limit the amount of protein and purines in your Dalmatian’s diet.[3]
- Purines are a substance that, when not metabolized properly, contribute to the formation of urate crystals in your Dalmatian’s urinary tract.
- Your veterinarian can assist you in determining which low-protein diet would be best for your Dalmatian. In fact, he or she may recommend that you feed your Dalmatian a low-protein diet only if he starts developing urinary problems.[4]
- Dalmatians are also prone to allergies. Avoid multi-colored foods, since they have additives that could cause or aggravate your Dalmatian’s allergies.[5]

2. Establish a feeding schedule for your Dalmatian. If you have a Dalmatian puppy, feed him 3 times a day. Allow a few hours between his last meal and his bedtime to give him time to digest his food before going to sleep for the night.[6] Remember that he will need to go to the bathroom 45 minutes after he eats.
- When your puppy is 14 to 16 weeks old, start feeding him twice a day—once in the morning and once in the evening.[7]
- Follow the feeding instructions on the food label to determine how much you should feed your puppy per day.
- Your adult Dalmatian should eat 1.5 to 2 cups of high-quality dog food per day, split between two meals.[8]
- Dalmatians tend to eat quickly, and, if given the chance, would eat to their heart’s content. It is better for Dalmatians to have designated feeding times, rather than being allowed to eat free choice.[9]

3. Give your Dalmatian unlimited access to fresh water. Since Dalmatians are prone to developing urinary stones, they need to drink water constantly to flush out their urinary system. Whether your Dalmatian is in a crate or can roam your house freely, make sure he has plenty of water to drink.[10]
- Given how much water your Dalmatian has to drink, he may need to urinate more frequently.