At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Dalmatian | Pointer |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Companion Dogs | Sporting Dogs |
| Size | Large | Large |
| Height | 19 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder | 23 inches to 28 inches tall at the shoulder |
| Weight | 48 to 55 pounds | 45 to 75 pounds |
| Life span | 13 to 16 years | 12 to 15 years |
| Energy | ||
| Exercise needs | ||
| Easy to train | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with other dogs | ||
| Friendly with strangers | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Easy to groom | ||
| Barking | ||
| Apartment living | ||
| First-time owners | ||
| Copes alone | ||
| Drooling | ||
| General health |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Friendly with strangers
The Pointer is friendlier with strangers than the Dalmatian.
Shedding
The Dalmatian sheds more than the Pointer.
First-time owners
The Dalmatian suits first-time owners better than the Pointer.
Copes alone
The Dalmatian copes better when left alone than the Pointer.
Easy to train
The Pointer is easier to train than the Dalmatian.
Intelligence
The Pointer is quicker to learn than the Dalmatian.
Which to choose
Dalmatian or Pointer?
Choose the Dalmatian if…
- You want a more watchful dog (it is more reserved with strangers)
- You want a dog that suits first-time owners better
- You want a dog that copes better when left alone
- You want a dog that barks less
Choose the Pointer if…
- You have lots of visitors (it is friendlier with strangers)
- You want a dog that sheds less
- You want a dog that is easier to train
- You want a dog that is quicker to learn
Questions.
Is the Dalmatian or the Pointer bigger, and which lives longer?
The Pointer is the bigger breed, about 4 kg heavier on average. The Dalmatian tends to live about 1 year longer. Individual pets vary, so meet the parents or the pet where you can.
Which is easier to train, the Dalmatian or the Pointer?
The Pointer is generally easier to train than the Dalmatian. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Dalmatian or the Pointer?
The Pointer is usually the better fit for families with children, though a well-socialised Dalmatian can be great too. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
The Pointer sheds less than the Dalmatian. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
