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Pet Insurance for Dalmatians

Find out all about Dalmatians and their common health conditions, and then compare pet insurance options from some of Australia’s leading insurers.

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, updated on September 15th, 2023       

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Price range

$1,500–$2,500

Height

53cm - 61cm

Weight

20kg - 32kg

Personality

Boisterous, energetic, friendly

Coat length

Short

Exercise needs

High

Kid-friendly?

Yes

Life expectancy

12 -14 years

Dalmation

Overview

The Dalmatian is an instantly recognisable breed thanks to its distinctive black or liver-coloured spots on a crisp white coat. It was made famous by the Disney movie 101 Dalmatians, which saw a huge surge in popularity of this breed. It is a large, playful and active breed originating from Croatia's Dalmatia region, where these dogs were historically used as carriage dogs, hunting dogs and guard dogs. However, their history goes back as far as ancient Greece, with pictures of them pulling chariots in Rome and Egypt as far back as 2000 B.C. They may share DNA history with Pointer dogs and Great Danes. All Dalmatian puppies are born white, and don’t develop their spots until they are older puppies.  

Dalmatians are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are often described as energetic, playful, and affectionate dogs, making them great family pets in the right circumstances. However, their high energy levels require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviour. They have a short, sleek coat that requires minimal grooming. They are intelligent but can be independent, requiring early socialisation and consistent training. Dalmatians thrive in homes with active owners who can provide regular exercise and mental stimulation. 

Common diseases and conditions of Dalmatians

  • Deafness: Dalmatians are predisposed to deafness, with some being born deaf in one or both ears. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs for deafness before deciding to breed them. 
  • Hyperuricemia: Hyperuricemia is a condition characterised by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood, and it's a specific health concern for Dalmatians. This breed has a genetic predisposition to inefficiently process uric acid, resulting in higher concentrations in their bloodstream. This can lead to the formation of urate crystals or stones in the urinary tract, leading to conditions like urinary obstruction, kidney stones, or urinary tract infections.
  • Hip Dysplasia: This is a common orthopaedic condition affecting the joint's development. It can lead to discomfort and mobility issues. 

Breed-specific issues:  

The high energy level of Dalmatians make them great running companions, but they may become destructive if not provided with enough activity. Early testing of puppies is necessary to determine if they can hear properly, and regular vet checks are needed to manage their hyperuricemia. 

How much does pet insurance cost for a Dalmatian?

Most Australians can expect to pay between $20 and $60 a month for pet insurance. There are many factors that can influence the cost of pet insurance for your Dalmatian, including the following:

  • Age: The older your dog is, the more pet insurance is likely to cost. This is because senior dogs tend to have more physical health conditions and illnesses due to age, and so present a higher insurance risk.    
  • Type of insurance you choose:  There are three basic types of dog insurance available in Australia; accident-only, accident and illness, and comprehensive insurance. An accident-only policy is the cheapest type of insurance available, with comprehensive coverage costing the most.  
  • The policy annual limit: Each pet insurance policy has an annual limit, which is the maximum amount that will be paid out on the policy in one financial year. Annual limits range from around $10,000 up to $25,000 or more.   
  • Sub-limits: In addition to an annual limit, there may also be sub-limits that apply to the policy, for example, a $300 sub-limit for consultation fees, or a $5,000 limit for cruciate ligament conditions.   
  • Benefit percentage: Pet insurance does not cover 100% of the cost of your vet bill. Instead, it may pay a percentage of the total bill. This can range from 50% for cheaper policies, up to 90% for the best policies available.   
  • Excess amount: This is the amount you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket each time you make a claim on your policy. Some pet insurance policies do not come with an excess amount, whilst others do.  
  • Any add-ons you choose: It’s possible to add on more cover options to a basic policy, such as emergency boarding fees, routine care and dental care. These add-ons extend the scope of your pet insurance, but do increase the overall cost of the policy.  
  • Discounts: some insurers offer discounts of between 5% and 15% if you have multiple pets insured together, if you pay your premium annually, or if you bundle your pet insurance with other forms of insurance with the same company.

Types of pet insurance you can choose from

Why compare pet insurance with Savvy?

Common questions about Dalmatians

Do Dalmatians shed a lot?

Dalmatians do shed, but their short coat makes grooming relatively easy. Regular brushing can help manage their shedding so it is generally not a problem. 

Are Dalmatians good family pets to have around children?

Yes, Dalmatians can make wonderful family pets. They are known for their playful and outgoing nature, which often makes them great companions for families with older children.

Do Dalmatians get along with cats and other pets?

No. They have a strong prey drive, so they may perceive small animals such as cats, rabbits and guinea pigs as prey. They should not be left alone with smaller animals, but can get on with other large dog breeds.

Are Dalmatians suitable for first-time dog owners?

Dalmatians can be a bit challenging for first-time dog owners due to their high energy levels and need for consistent training. Experienced dog owners or those willing to invest a lot of time in training will find them rewarding pets.

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Compare pet insurance policies with Savvy

Whether you're buying for your dog or cat and whether they're big or small, you can compare pet insurance policies tailored to your furry friend's needs from Savvy's panel of trusted Australian insurers. Grab a free, no-obligation quote today!
Dalmation

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