How do I train my Dalmatian and handle these issues?

Seeking help
1

I’m getting a Dalmatian puppy in January (it’s just a week old right now) from a breeder. I want it to be my jogging partner, which is why I chose this breed. But I have a few concerns I need help with:

  1. How do I train the puppy to jog with me and keep the same pace?
  2. My jogging route has stray dogs roaming around (it’s common here for theft prevention). I’m scared my dog might attack one of them or get attacked. What should I do?
  3. My house is filled with furniture for our family business, and I’m worried the dog might damage it. How can I prevent this?

I’m a first-time dog owner and don’t have much experience. Any advice would be really appreciated.

2

It’s important to remember you’re starting with a tiny puppy, so focus on basic training first. Jogging can wait until the dog’s body is fully developed, around two years old. For now, work on leash training and teaching the puppy to follow your lead.

  1. Start with loose leash walking and build up from there.
  2. Train your dog to focus on you and ignore distractions like other dogs. Positive reinforcement works well here.
  3. Supervise the puppy around your furniture and redirect it to appropriate chew toys. Consistent training is key.

Also, don’t bring the puppy home until it’s at least 8 weeks old.

3

@Lyana
Thanks for the tips. I’ll start with leash training. How do I keep the puppy from getting distracted by other dogs? And about the furniture, any specific chew toys you’d recommend?

4

Aurelia said:
@Lyana
Thanks for the tips. I’ll start with leash training. How do I keep the puppy from getting distracted by other dogs? And about the furniture, any specific chew toys you’d recommend?

Honestly, it sounds like you might be a bit overwhelmed. Dalmatians are a tough breed for first-time owners; they need a lot of training and socialization to prevent issues like aggression or anxiety. Maybe consider a different breed that’s easier to handle?

5

Aurelia said:
@Lyana
Thanks for the tips. I’ll start with leash training. How do I keep the puppy from getting distracted by other dogs? And about the furniture, any specific chew toys you’d recommend?

I agree with DP. Maybe consider getting a Labrador? They’re usually more forgiving for first-time owners.

6

@Asher
Exactly. Labs are much easier to train, and they’re great companions. Also, make sure the breeder you’re buying from is ethical. It’s really important.

7

Aurelia said:
@Lyana
Thanks for the tips. I’ll start with leash training. How do I keep the puppy from getting distracted by other dogs? And about the furniture, any specific chew toys you’d recommend?

Did you research Dalmatians before deciding? They’re known to be stubborn and challenging to train. A lot of experienced dog owners wouldn’t pick one as their first dog. If you’re set on a dog, maybe look into breeds better suited for beginners.

8

@dorrishuggs
You’re right. I think I rushed into this. Maybe I’ll reconsider the breed. Thanks for the advice.

9

Aurelia said:
@dorrishuggs
You’re right. I think I rushed into this. Maybe I’ll reconsider the breed. Thanks for the advice.

No worries. If you’re open to other options, look into retired greyhounds. They’re calm, great runners, and often easy to manage. Whatever you decide, take your time and pick a breed that fits your lifestyle.

10

@dorrishuggs
I’ve heard good things about greyhounds. I’ll research them more. Thanks again.

11

Dalmatians are high-maintenance dogs, so make sure you read up on the breed. There are plenty of guides and books to help you understand their needs.

12

PriyankaJonas said:
Dalmatians are high-maintenance dogs, so make sure you read up on the breed. There are plenty of guides and books to help you understand their needs.

I might still change my mind about getting one. But thanks for the suggestion.

13

@Aurelia
That’s smart. Take your time to learn about dogs in general first, then pick a breed that matches your lifestyle. Good luck.

14

You shouldn’t have a dog run with you until it’s at least a year old. Their bodies aren’t developed enough, and you could hurt them.

15

Drusilla said:
You shouldn’t have a dog run with you until it’s at least a year old. Their bodies aren’t developed enough, and you could hurt them.

Got it. I’ll wait until the dog is old enough. Thanks for the heads-up.

16

@Aurelia
Yeah, it’s like expecting a kid to run a marathon. They need time to grow first.

17

Honestly, I’d be more worried about the stray dogs attacking your puppy.

18

I’m not saying you shouldn’t get a dog, but maybe now isn’t the best time. Puppies chew a lot, especially when teething, and it sounds like your home setup might not be ideal. If your business depends on keeping furniture undamaged, you need to think carefully. It’s a big responsibility, and sometimes the best decision is to wait until the timing is better.

19

Loose dogs are usually the ones starting fights, not the leashed ones. If you’re in an area with roaming dogs, it’s best to avoid those routes. Training takes patience and consistency. Start small and use treats, but don’t overdo it, or the dog might only work for food. Find what motivates them; pets and praise can work as well as treats.

20

@Giovanni
I’ve had lots of dogs, and every one of them was different. Some needed lots of energy burned off before training, while others were calmer and learned quickly. If you go with a Dalmatian, make sure you’re ready to dedicate time every day to their training and exercise needs.