The Dalmatian has an intelligent and alert expression with a short and shiny coat. Its distinctive spots are a well-regarded feature; however, solid patches are not encouraged in the breed standard -- an abstract aesthetic ideal for the animal type. The Dalmatian also has an athletic build with strong bones and a square-proportioned body which gives it endurance, and an effortless and steady trot. The ground color of a Dalmatian is pure white with dense, black spots, while liver-spotted Dalmatians have liver brown spots.