Male vs Female Dalmatian: Differences Explained (With Pictures)

Dalmatians are large, strong dogs. They make good watchdogs, excellent working dogs, and they can make superb companions. But Dalmatians can be stubborn, and they tend to be quite aloof with strangers. When it comes to the different genders, males are bigger, and they tend to be stronger. But while females are smaller and slighter than males, they are still large, strong dogs.

Males may also be more prone to wanderlust and not respond to their names when called. Owners claim that males are more affectionate but are considered less intelligent than females. Generally, males are better for those looking for a working dog or guard dog because of their size and stamina, but they also make better family companions because they are more affectionate. Females are better suited to families that go to work during the day because they are more independent.

When it comes to characteristics and traits, upbringing and training are more likely to influence the individual dog, but it is still beneficial to understand the likely differences. However, below, we look at some of the likely differences you will see.

Visual Differences

At a Glance

Dalmatian 101

Although the very early history of the breed is somewhat unclear, the Dalmatian is named after the Dalmatia region of Austria. In the 19th Century, the Dalmatian was used to accompany stagecoaches and carriages. It would protect the horses as well as the people and even the cargo of the vehicles. As such, it has plenty of stamina, is used to identifying potential threats, and is wary of strangers. Since then, the Dalmatian went on to become a coach dog accompanying fire station coaches, and the breed is still kept as firehouse mascots in some places.

While the breed is wary of strangers, it forms a close bond with its owners and can suffer separation anxiety if kept apart from its humans for too long. This can manifest itself as destructive behavior and other antisocial habits. The breed is also known for having a very good memory, which means that it learns commands well, but it also means that it will remember mistreatment. Finally, the breed is very energetic and has a lot of stamina so it will need plenty of regular exercise.

Male Dalmatian Overview

Personality / Character

The breed is loving with its owners but tends to be aloof with strangers. Male dogs tend to be the more affectionate of the genders which means they tend to make the best family companions. Males tend to be quite dependent on their humans, which means they need more time and attention from their families.

Training

Males are also said to be less intelligent than females. It can take longer to teach male Dalmatians new commands and tricks than it would a female Dalmatian, although the male is more likely to want to please its owner than the female. Early socialization is important for both genders because this will help smooth off some of the mistrust that Dalmatians feel toward strangers.

Health & Care

Dalmatians are purebred, which means that there are certain hereditary conditions that the breed is prone to. In particular, the Dalmatian has a somewhat unique urinary system, and you should avoid feeding a diet that is too high in protein while ensuring that they always have access to fresh drinking water and the opportunity to urinate. The male is taller and heavier than the female which also means that they are more robust.

Breeding

It is advised that male Dalmatians be neutered as soon as the vet recommends it. This can remove the male dominance that Dalmatians may exhibit. It can leave you with a calmer and better-behaved dog, too, although this isn’t necessarily always the case.

Female Dalmatian Overview

Personality / Character

The female is less trusting of strangers, which is beneficial if you are looking for a watchdog, but less so if you have a lot of visitors to the house. However, the breed was raised to protect horses and other animals, so it will usually get along well with other pets and will accept them as part of the family.

Training

The female is often more intelligent than the male, which means that she is capable of learning new commands more quickly. However, this is tempered by the fact that she is less concerned with pleasing her owners, and she tends to be more independent, so while she might understand what you’re saying, that doesn’t necessarily mean she will respond accordingly.

Health & Care

Another common problem with Dalmatians is that they are prone to putting on weight. This is another reason, along with the unique urinary system, that you should avoid high protein diets for this breed and ensure that you provide adequate daily exercise.

Breeding

Females should be spayed when they reach sexual maturity, usually at around 15 months of age. This will prevent bleeding that accompanies being in heat and can also help improve her attentiveness and make her a more affectionate member of the family.

Which Gender Is Right for You?

Dalmatians are unique and beautiful dogs. They have spent hundreds of years accompanying and protecting our coaches, wagons, and even fire stations. But the breed isn’t ideal for all owners. It is independent, prone to wanderlust, and won’t always do as told.

When it comes to gender, the male is more affectionate but not as intelligent. He is also stronger, but this can make him more difficult to handle. If you’re looking for a doting pet, the male is your best bet, but if you want a dog that is a little more independent, the female is the better option.

Featured Image Credit: (L) Eric Krouse, Shutterstock | (R) Anabell Gsoedl, Shutterstock