Congenital Deafness
        Congenital deafness is currently a major problem in Dalmatians, as it is in a number of other dog breeds. Responsible breeders are, however, screening (BAER test) their breeding stock and puppies.  The D.C.A. (Dalmatian Club of America) recommends that breeders do not place bilateral deaf puppies into homes.  Dealing with a totally deaf dog requires the owner having prior experience in training, and special accommodations for the dog.
For further information please see: Medical Index/Congenital Deafness.

Urate Urinary Stones
        Dalmatians do not fully convert uric acid during digestion. They are therefore, susceptible to urate stones.
For further information please see : Medical Index/Urate Stones.

Thyroid Deficiency
       Thyroid deficiency, or hypothyroidism, is the condition resulting from a low production of usable hormones by the thyroid gland.
For further information please see : (Medical Index/Hypothyroidism).

Hip Dysplasia
        The hip joint is a ball and socket connection.  If the joint is malformed the head of the femur will not properly align with the cup of the hip socket.  This misalignment can range from mild to severe. In mild cases, with proper diet and exercise the animal can lead a full and active life. In more severe cases surgical correction or euthanasia are the only alternatives.  The most common indications of hip dysplasia, in small dogs, is when the dog older.  Generally with this late-life onset surgical correction is never required. Your veterinarian can X-ray your dog's hips for evaluation.
For further information please see : (Medical Index/Hip Dysplasia).

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