If you’ve picked up a copy of our latest Dorwest 2026 Spring / Summer catalogue, you may have already spotted the beautiful Dalmatian on the cover!
Meet Priya, a striking young Dalmatian with a playful personality, a blossoming show career and a proud owner, Steph. Priya recently took to the famous green carpet at Crufts and has quickly become a star both at home and in the show ring.
We caught up with Steph to learn more about Priya, her love for the Dalmatian breed and how Dorwest supplements have become part of the daily routine for her dogs.
Can you tell us a little about Priya – her age, personality, and what she’s like at home?
"Priya is my 21-month-old Dalmatian and the third generation from my breeding. She is the most wonderful dog.
She has the funniest, sweetest character and acts like a real clown with her Dalmatian smile. She absolutely loves to please us and has already been a successful show girl in her first year of showing, gaining her stud book number early in her show career.
At home, Priya is a delight. She loves being in our company, enjoys cuddles on the sofa and has zoomies every morning. She is also a real foodie and can be quite bossy when it comes to letting us know when it’s tea time."
What made you fall in love with Dalmatians as a breed?
"Honestly, 101 Dalmatians! I would watch it over and over again as a child and always knew that one day I would have my own. Now here I am with four beautiful Dalmatians.
I love the distinctive coat of the Dalmatian – it’s so eye-catching. They are also a very loyal breed. They want to work and please their owners, but they do need consistent training. Originally, Dalmatians were bred to run alongside carriages, so they really enjoy having a job to do."
How did Priya get into showing, and what was it like taking her to Crufts this year?
"Priya became a show girl after being picked from our litter. We started training her from a young age and she quickly showed us that she had the right attitude for the ring.
She is a real flashy show girl and has a glowing attitude when she’s in the show ring.
Taking Priya to Crufts was a real honour. She had a great time on the big green carpet and placed a very respectable fourth in her class."
What would you say to someone thinking about getting their first Dalmatian?
"Dalmatians are an active breed and they love daily exercise, socialisation and being part of family life. They are very social, cuddly dogs. We actually nickname them 'velcro dogs' because they follow you everywhere.
They do need training from a young age as they are very intelligent – they can even learn to open doors! After their morning exercise they are more than happy to relax on the sofa and fit into your routine. It really depends on what you make of them.
Early socialisation and clear boundaries will set you up with a fabulous companion.
For anyone considering a Dalmatian, it’s important to look for a reputable breeder. Health testing puppies is very important as some can be born deaf. A BAER hearing test should be performed by a professional at around six weeks old.
Fun fact – Dalmatians moult 365 days a year. You’ll never wear black clothing the same again… 'Dally glitter' is everywhere!"
With many Dalmatians at home, do they have any specific care needs owners should be aware of?
"A low-purine diet needs to be considered, as Dalmatians can produce urinary stones.
Being such a happy breed, split tails can also sometimes become a problem as they wag their tails so enthusiastically and can bang them on things."
How did you first discover Dorwest Herbs?
"We discovered Dorwest Herbs many years ago and have used a variety of different products over the years. The dogs have really flourished with supplements included in their daily diets."
Do you have any favourite Dorwest products you like to use with Priya or your other dogs?
"A real favourite of ours is Keeper’s Mix®, which provides nutritional support. Priya has a beautiful coat and it helps support her overall health.
We also use Omega Star®, Garlic & Fenugreek and Green Releaf® Tablets.
Our other Dalmatians use these supplements too, along with MoveWellia® for joint support, which has really helped the suppleness in their movement.
Milk Thistle has helped support my older girl’s liver, and they all use the Roast Dinner Toothpaste – which has proven to be a tasty winner in our house!
With so many dog products on the market, we were really pleased to discover Dorwest Herbs and we have genuinely seen the results for ourselves. We are proud to be supported by Dorwest supplements."
Supporting dogs naturally with Dorwest
At Dorwest, we’ve spent over 75 years developing herbal supplements for dogs and cats, working alongside vets, breeders and owners who want the very best for their animals.
If you'd like to learn more or receive personalised advice and recommendations for your dog or cat, please contact our team on 01308 897272 or drop us an email at advice@dorwest.com.
