CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The American Kennel Club keeps track of America’s favorite dog breeds, and popular movies can have an affect on that list. The "101 Dalmatians" movie in the late 1990's inspired a love for the breed, and the release of "Cruella" this summer could mean another spike.
Karen Rowan owns Gaelic Dalmatians and has been breeding Dalmatians for more than 20 years. She does extensive interviews before letting someone adopt a puppy. Rowan wants to make sure they get along with the dog and are also aware of the work involved in owning a Dalmatian.
“They are very high energy. Once they hit three though they turn into couch potatoes and they would rather lay with you reading a book or watching TV, but for those first three years, they love to run,” Rowan said.
What You Need To Know
Dalmatians are a very energetic breed and need lots of exercise and play time in their first two years
Dalmatians shed a lot of hair
Dalmatians can have trouble with their hips and can have trouble with deafness in one or both ears
Mary Griffin has adopted two Dalmatians from Gaelic Dalmatians over the past four years. She loves the high energy breed but thinks owners should also know they shed.
“We call it Dalmatian glitter instead of dog hair,” Griffin said. “I have a lot of Dalmatian glitter.”
Dalmatians also have a higher chance of being deaf in one or both ears and need to have their hips checked before adoption.
Rowan recommends looking up their health report with the Canine Health Information Center.