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Working dog
Boxer
A playful, strong dog that matures slowly. Exercise, patient training and room for its energy all need planning.
Endurance and companion dog
Dalmatian
A watchful, athletic companion with a short coat and substantial daily exercise needs.
Size: LargeActivity: Very highGrooming: Low
At a glance
- Size
- Large
- Height at shoulder
- 56–61 cm
- Weight
- 18–27 kg
- Lifespan
- over 12 years
- Activity
- Very high
- Grooming
- Low
- Training
- Patience & clear guidance
- Owner experience
- Experience recommended
Endurance with a high need for activity
Dalmatians became known as carriage companions. Many are energetic and alert, so an active home matters.
Everyday life
Spread plenty of exercise across the day and add training. Provide secure places to run and make a reliable plan for company.
When you need to go out
Being alone needs gradual practice. The RSPCA advises no more than four hours at a time; puppies and some adults need much shorter intervals. Arrange company during longer absences.
Day-to-day care
The short coat is easy to brush but sheds heavily. Check skin and ears regularly.
Size and build
Measurements describe adult dogs and are a guide. Lines and individuals can vary; ask about the parents’ health, temperament and daily life.
Health
Breed-related concerns include skin allergies, urinary stones and congenital hearing loss. Ask a vet about relevant hearing and health checks.
Could this breed fit your life?
Could work well if …
- You enjoy the outdoors and can plan substantial daily activity.
- You have time for company, enrichment and consistent training.
May be more difficult if …
- You need a quiet dog with low exercise needs.
- You want to avoid shedding or long active days.
Breed traits describe tendencies. Breeding line, socialisation, care and experience shape the individual. Children and animals always need responsible supervision.
Similar needs, different dogs.
Selected by shared size, activity, grooming and training characteristics.
Working and guarding dog
Dobermann
Athletic, alert and closely bonded to its family. A Dobermann needs plenty of exercise and regular training, while its short coat requires little grooming.
Working dog
Great Dane
Exceptionally tall and usually short-coated, with substantial space and handling needs. Even a gentle dog can knock people over by accident.
Sources and photograph credit
Portrait · Carlos Estrada · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Image cropped
