Dalmatian

The Dalmatian is an athletic, outgoing and energetic dog, usually 20 to 32 kg, with a spotted coat. It was bred to run alongside carriages, and it still needs a lot of exercise and activity. Dalmatians can be boisterous with small children and tend to be sensitive, so they suit active owners with the time for training.

The short coat sheds a lot all year, and a weekly rubdown with a grooming glove helps. In the UAE the thin coat and pale skin make the midday sun a problem, so walk early or late, offer shade and never leave the dog in a car. Keep it in air conditioning during the day. Some Dalmatians are born deaf in one or both ears, and the breed is prone to urinary stones. Ask for hearing test results, and for diet and sun protection, ask your vet.

See the puppy in person (and its mother, if you buy from a breeder) and check the vaccination card and microchip number. Your dog should be microchipped, have its rabies and core vaccinations and be registered with your municipality or emirate. On AnimalMarket24, prices vary a lot, so compare a few ads before you decide. Adoption is also an option, and adoption fees should be modest.