The Dalmatian dog breed is known for its iconic black spotted coat and remains very popular in Australia. But such a sought-after dog comes at a cost. So, how much can you expect to pay for a Dalmatian? And are there any additional costs you should be aware of?
Find out below!
Dalmatian prices in Australia vary, but you can expect to spend between $ 1,000 and $ 3,000 for a purebred puppy. If you’re not looking to spend that much money and want to give an adult Dalmatian a home, you can adopt one for considerably less.
Several factors determine the price of Dalmatians in Australia:
A breeder with more than just normal family records, including the appropriate paperwork for other dogs within the bloodline, can charge more. This is because the temperament of the Dalmatian puppy can be predicted (to an extent) based on the temperament of its parents.
Responsible breeders breed Dalmatian puppies from fit, healthy dogs. Puppies produced from reputable breeding dogs tend to hold pedigree papers and will likely have had vital vaccinations before going to live in their forever home.
For a true Dalmatian enthusiast, the spots are the most important thing. These dogs are born white, but their iconic black spots start to appear after about four weeks.
If you are looking for a show-quality dog, expect to pay extra for a Dalmatian puppy with the ‘perfect’ distribution of spots, as described by the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC). For example, it is ‘preferable’ that each ear is spotted… not one ear black, as is common in the breed.
Speak to a veterinarian about local breeders with Dalmatian breeding rights. Alternatively, contact Dogs QLD or a similar online directory for details on Dalmatian puppy breeders in your area.
Having the parent dogs available to ‘meet’ when you visit.
Providing all the necessary lineage paperwork and Kennel Council certification without your having to ask for it.
A returns policy. A trustworthy breeder will want their puppies to find the right forever home. If that isn’t you, they will want to try again rather than force you to keep the pup.
If the price seems too low, be suspicious.
No other dogs around when you visit? Be suspicious.
No returns policy? Alarm bells…
Now you have your bouncing bundle of polka dot joy; you still have to pay for food, obedience training, vet bills…
Dalmatian puppies can eat much of the same food as most other dogs, but many pet stores sell a special Dalmatian breed dog food. This will support a healthy heart and urinary tract, as well as provide the Omega-3 fatty acid required to maintain that beautiful coat.
A Dalmatian is a big and active pet dog, so new owners need to remember that it will eat a lot.
Dalmatian puppies are purebred, and like many other purebred dogs, they can be prone to a few health problems, including atopy, epilepsy, and hip dysplasia. While none of these things are necessarily fatal, managing them can be expensive.
This breed can also suffer from deafness. You can pay to have BAER testing completed, which will tell you if your dog struggles with their hearing.
You should also expect to pay for non-breed-specific veterinary treatment, such as having your dog regularly wormed.
Most Dalmatians have a very short coat, which requires minimal grooming. With a little practice, it’s easy to brush your dog, clean its teeth and ears, and trim its claws at home.
This ancient breed has been a popular pooch since long before a litter of animated, spotted dogs appeared on the silver screen. And while Dalmatians might not be among the most popular breeds, they are certainly among the most iconic.
Unfortunately, this can lead breeders to overcharge. Normal breeding farms, recognised by the Dogs QLD and similar online directories, should charge an average of around $ 1,000 for a Dalmatian puppy.
Expect to pay more for female puppies or long-coated pups – but don’t be swindled!
Members of this unique breed make great pets and will quickly settle into a loving home. Don’t just buy the first puppy advertised, though. Find a reputable breeder charging a fair price. Dalmatian puppies are popular and cost a lot, but they will bring much love to your family in return.
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