Group 6 · Scent hounds
Dalmatian
The Dalmatian is instantly recognisable by its white coat with black or liver spots. It once ran alongside carriages as an escort and watchdog. Today it is an energetic, friendly family dog.
Health
These examinations come from the official breeding programme for the breed Dalmatiër by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen (Animal Welfare Flanders). They apply to the puppies’ parents.
In short
Both parents must have 6 examinations:
- 3 DNA tests
- 2 X-ray examinations
- 1 hearing test
Of these, 1 examination only becomes mandatory at a later date (see below).
The breeding programme also recommends 1 further examination.
A sample for DNA tests can be taken either with a mouth swab or by a blood sample. To carry out the examinations, the breeder uses a vet or a laboratory. For each examination below, you can see from what age and how often it must be done. Ask the breeder for the results of both parent dogs.
Mandatory examinations (6)
-
Disproportionate dwarfism (DD)
DNA test Once from birth Mandatory from 01/01/2027
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- PRKG2:c.1601T>G
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Degenerative myelopathy (DM)
DNA test Once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- SOD1: c.118G>A
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Deafness (BAER)
Hearing test Once from 6 weeks
Official description
- Method
- BAER test
-
Elbow dysplasia (ED)
X-ray Once at least 1 year
Official description
- Method
- X-ray (CT may be recommended, but is not mandatory)
-
Hip dysplasia (HD)
X-ray Once at least 1 year (laxity views: at least 6 months)
Official description
- Method
- X-ray: VD view and laxity view (Vezzoni or PennHIP)
-
Progressive retinal atrophy – progressive rod-cone degeneration (Prcd-PRA)
DNA test Once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- PRCD: XM_022422503.1:c.5G>A
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
Recommended examinations (1)
-
Eye disorders
Eye examination Valid for 2 years at least 1 year
Official description
- Method
- General eye examination
The breeding programme also contains the breeding advice for each examination and general rules on inbreeding, the number of matings per stud dog and the use of frozen semen. You can find these in the official document.
Source: breeding programme Dalmatiër, Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, last updated on 18/07/2026.
View the official breeding programme (PDF, in Dutch)
A breeding programme reduces the risk of hereditary conditions, but does not offer a 100% health guarantee.
Translation of the Dutch breeding programme by Puppymakelaar. In case of any difference, the official document prevails.
This breed profile is not a breed sheet within the meaning of the Flemish Breeding Decree (Fokkerijbesluit). The legal rules for breeding this breed are set out in the official breeding programme.
Considerations when buying
According to the breeding programme approved by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, these examinations must be carried out on both parent dogs: Degenerative myelopathy (DM), Deafness (BAER), Elbow dysplasia (ED), Hip dysplasia (HD) and Progressive retinal atrophy – progressive rod-cone degeneration (Prcd-PRA). Only mandatory from a later date: Disproportionate dwarfism (DD) (from 01/01/2027). The breeding programme also lists these recommended examinations: Eye disorders. A puppy with a Flemish pedigree comes from parent dogs bred according to this breeding programme. Ask for the results of both parent dogs and compare them with the overview above. A Dalmatian needs plenty of daily exercise, such as long walks or trotting calmly beside a bicycle. Its short coat sheds heavily all year round, and a weekly brush helps.
Questions for the breeder
- Have both parent dogs undergone all the mandatory examinations in the breeding programme, and may I see the results?
- What are the results of both parent dogs for Elbow dysplasia (ED) and Hip dysplasia (HD)?
- Is the general eye examination of both parent dogs still valid? According to the breeding programme: Valid for 2 years.
- Will the puppy receive a Flemish pedigree from a recognised breed registry association?
- How are the puppies socialised before they go to their new home?
Breed-specific challenges
The Dalmatian is playful and energetic, and needs enough challenge to stay calm. Consistent, kind training and early socialisation are important.
More background
General guides that help you understand this breed information and choose well.
