Flat feet are a major fault in a Dalmatian, and this stands to reason since this is a breed expected to run with horses, and as such, depends on his “running gear.” A flat food in this breed is inefficient because it doesn’t support the dog’s weight well.

Conversely, the breed standard of the Tibetan Terrier expressly calls for feet that are “large, flat, and round in shape.” This is not only unique among breeds, but to our knowledge, its unique among breed standards since the TT has the only breed standard that calls for flat feet. In fact, the TT’s feet with no evident arch are considered one of the identifying characteristics of the breed, and there’s a reason for that. A broad, extremely flexible flat foot produces a snowshoe effect that provides traction for the dog as s/he they climbs mountains. The paw also features hair between the toes which further enhances the foot to act like natural snow shoes.