The Dalmatian is a large breed of dog that originates from Croatia. The breed is most noted for its highly unique black, or liver, spotted coat which has earned the breed the nicknames of 'Plum Pudding Dog' and the 'Leopard Carriage Dog.' Despite the breed originating from Croatia, the Dalmatian was mainly developed and cultivated in the United Kingdom. In 1890 the United Kingdom was the first country to actually have an official Dalmatian club and breed standard. The Dalmatian were originally used for a plethora of different tasks: as dogs of war, as guard dogs and as companion dogs. The modern day Dalmatian still has a high instinct to guard its owners and will be friendly and loyal to people it knows but often aloof with strangers and unknown dogs. In the early 1900s, the Dalmatian started to be used in sporting hunts as was used as a bird dog, trail hound, a retriever and in packs to hunt wild boar or stags. It was discovered that Dalmatians and horses are very compatible, and the Dalmatian soon was used to run in front of horse drawn carriages to clear a path for the horses. As the breed's large amount of working roles suggests, the Dalmatian is a highly adaptable and intelligent breed that is capable of being trained to do nearly any job. The Dalmatian is born with a solid white coat and they slowly develop their characteristic spots at around 3 to 4 weeks old - after about a month or two they have developed most of their spots. Most Dalmatian are born with a smooth short coat that sheds continuously throughout the year. However it is not uncommon for a Dalmatian to be born with a long haired coat - interestingly the long haired Dalmatians shed considerably less than their short haired counterparts. As a whole the Dalmatian is a highly intelligent and affectionate breed that thrives both in working environments and household environments. It is important to well socialize your Dalmatian during its puppyhood to make it less suspicious and aloof with strangers and unknown dogs.

Before purchasing any pet it is important to understand that as a pet owner you are responsible for the care and wellbeing of your pet. It is important to try and learn as much as you can about the animal you are considering to keep as a pet to make sure that your lifestyle, household and financial status are suited to provide your pet with the best possible care. This guide has been designed to provide you with both precise and concise information about a Dalmatian's basic needs to help you provide your pet with the best quality care practices. This guide will give an in-depth explanation on training your Dalmatian, raising your Dalmatian from a puppy, grooming, health care and everything in between!

"The Dalmatian: A Complete and Comprehensive Owners Guide to: Buying, Owning, Health, Grooming, Training, Obedience, Understanding and Caring for Your Dalmatian," by Michael Stonewood is the perfect purchase or gift for a first time Dalmatian owner. This guide includes sections on caring for a puppy, breeding, health care, training, the basic cost of owning a Dalmatian and much more.

This book is the second edition - the first edition was published by 'Dog Care Professionals.'