Dalmatian Heeler vs. Italian-Bichon: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Dalmatian Heelers or Italian-Bichons hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the Dalmatian Heeler is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Italian-Bichons are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon dogs?

Active
Playful
Energetic
Protective
Alert
Sensitive
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Responsive
Loyal
Aggressive

Playful
Agile
Sensitive
Intelligent
Affectionate
Gentle
Companionable
Cheerful
Athletic
Mischievous

Shedding Level

Do Dalmatian Heelers shed more than Italian-Bichons, or which breed sheds more, Dalmatian Heelers or Italian-Bichons?

4 / 5

Dalmatian Heelers are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

2 / 5

Italian-Bichons are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon breeds?

Dalmatian and Australian Cattle Dog

Bichon Frise and Italian Greyhound

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon?

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DBR = Designer Breed Registry
DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon breeds first developed?

Unknown

2000's

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon breeds?

Red
Blue
White
Black
Brindle

Cream
Fawn
Sable
White

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon breeds?

2 / 5

Dalmatian Heelers have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

1 / 5

Italian-Bichons have short coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon?

5 / 5

1 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon?

A Dalmatian Heeler can have a litter of 6-9 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

An Italian-Bichon can have a litter of 2-5 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

4 / 5

Dalmatian Heelers are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

5 / 5

Italian-Bichons are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon, which breed is more prone to health problems?

4 / 5

Dalmatian Heelers typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

3 / 5

While the Italian-Bichon breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon breeds?

Hip Dysplasia
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Urolithiasis
Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon?

Skin Allergies
Urinary Stones

Cataracts
Shaker Dog Syndrome

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon breeds?

X-Rays
Physical Examination
Ultrasound
Blood Tests
Eye Tests
Hearing Tests
Urinalysis and Urine Culture
Ultrasound to detect urinary stone location
Skin Scraping Test for Allergies

Urinalysis
Blood Count
Ophthalmologic Examination
Blood Chemistry

Social Needs

Dalmatian Heeler vs Italian-Bichon social needs comparison

4 / 5

Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon have above average social needs compared to other breeds. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Dalmatian Heeler or Italian-Bichon?

1 / 5

Dalmatian Heelers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

3 / 5

Italian-Bichons have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Dalmatian Heeler vs Italian-Bichon?

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Dalmatian Heeler vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Dalmatian Heeler or Italian-Bichon - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

3 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Dalmatian Heelers or Italian-Bichons?

Dalmatian Heelers are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Italian-Bichons are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Dalmatian Heeler or Italian-Bichon walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Dalmatian Heeler, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Italian-Bichon, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Dalmatian Heelers or Italian-Bichons require more exercise?

In general most Dalmatian Heelers usually need at least 120 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Italian-Bichons usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Dalmatian Heelers or Italian-Bichons?

1 / 5

The Dalmatian Heeler is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

3 / 5

The Italian-Bichon requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon dogs?

Ideally, Dalmatian Heeler should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Italian-Bichon should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Dalmatian Heelers and Italian-Bichons?

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Deshedder

Slicker Brush
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Dalmatian Heeler or Italian-Bichon in cups?

For an average 38-60 pound (17 - 27 kg) Dalmatian Heeler feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 12-18 pound (5 - 8 kg) Italian-Bichon feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Dalmatian Heeler or Italian-Bichon?

The average cost of a Dalmatian Heeler is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

The average cost of an Italian-Bichon is somewhere $1.30 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Dalmatian Heeler or Italian-Bichon?

The average per month expenses of a Dalmatian Heeler is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of an Italian-Bichon is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Sensitivity Level

How do Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Dalmatian Heeler or Italian-Bichon?

1 / 5

The Dalmatian Heeler is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

4 / 5

The Italian-Bichon is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

Do Dalmatian Heelers or Italian-Bichons have a friendlier temperament towards children?

5 / 5

Dalmatian Heelers make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

3 / 5

Italian-Bichons have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Dalmatian Heeler or Italian-Bichon?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Dalmatian Heeler or Italian-Bichon breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

3 / 5

Dalmatian Heelers are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

4 / 5

Italian-Bichons are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Dalmatian Heeler or Italian-Bichon?

4 / 5

Dalmatian Heelers and Italian-Bichons are friendly, active and loyal companions. They generally love to be around other dogs, making them a good family pet for some.

Pet friendly

How do Dalmatian Heeler or Italian-Bichon dogs interact with other pets?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Dalmatian Heeler or Italian-Bichon?

3 / 5

Dalmatian Heelers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

4 / 5

Italian-Bichons are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Dalmatian Heeler and Italian-Bichon?

5 / 5

Dalmatian Heelers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

4 / 5

Italian-Bichons are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Dalmatian Heelers and Italian-Bichons compare?

4 / 5

Dalmatian Heelers are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

3 / 5

Italian-Bichons are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.