This is not to say a Dalmatian cannot be left alone during the day while the owners are at work. It is just that when the rest of the family is spending time together at home, the Dalmatian wants to be apart of it. The short coat renders them unsuitable to live outdoors in cold climates. If you work during the day you will have to have some arrangement such as a doggy door to let the Dalmatian in and out. Most Dal owners provide their dogs with a sweater or coat if they will be outside for more than 10 or 15 minutes in colder climates.
Dalmatians are fairly large dogs.
A female will be slightly smaller. When you combine the size with the activity level you have some interesting possibilities. Imagine a 60 lb. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that you are going to be hit with a noticeable force. Dalmatians make good pets for older, well-behaved children.