To Anyone Considering a Dalmatian

[Iplayfarmer]

Deafness is common along with prostate issues for males

I hadn't heard about the prostate issues, but urinary tract issues are common. It can be managed through diet by ensuring high quality proteins. Byproducts of offal and bone meal, etc. are high in purines. This is what causes stones that give them issues. There are a lot of good dog foods out there that will work, but the cheap IFA Farm and Ranch is not one of them.

 

[TractorGuy]

Someone once told me that the deafness was desirable for fire dogs because they don't get freaked out by the sirens. I'm not sure that's a valid theory, but it sounds nice. If anyone is considering a Dalmatian make sure the puppies are tested for deafness. It IS common among this breed. It doesn't mean you can't raise a deaf puppy... you just have to know what you are getting yourself into.

I had a German Shepherd that went deaf once. The problem it created for us was when you walked up to his side it would startle him. 99% of the time he stopped as soon as he registered who you were but his initial response was to lunge which was eventually his undoing. A visiting friends child walked out to get something out of their vehicle one night and the shepherd chased him. The dog didn't catch the child or hurt him but I didn't feel I could continue to take the chance so I put him down. That dog had been my best friend and companion for years so it weighed heavily on me to make that decision.

 

[Iplayfarmer]

Sounds like the dog was a tool to you. If so, I get it.

I had a dog that got kicked by a horse, shattering his should blade. Had to have the leg amputated. Never considered removing him from the family.

Now have a dog that needed ACL surgery. Got it done. While rehabilitating I still have to help him into the truck cab. Never considered removing him from the family either.

Yeah, my old McNab was mostly invalid for the last couple of years of his life, but he was safe. I don't know if dogs actually get embarrassed, but he used to seem so embarrassed when I had to lift him into the truck. In his prime he'd jump from the ground to the top of a pickup truck loaded with hay to ride home.

 

[tradosaurus]

I had a male great Dane that I put down after he couldn't pee without help and was in pain. Hardest thing to do.

I probably will never own another dog.

 

[Molalla1]

I had a male great Dane that I put down after he couldn't pee without help and was in pain. Hardest thing to do.

I probably will never own another dog.

Losing one is very hard . . .