Dawn Lowery 
Great Dane
Great Dane: The Apollo of Dogs
Majestic, Gentle, and Regal
The Great Dane is a giant breed known for its impressive size, elegant appearance, and gentle temperament. Often referred to as the "Apollo of Dogs" for their majestic beauty, these gentle giants combine immense stature with a surprisingly sweet and affectionate nature that belies their formidable appearance.
Originally developed in Germany as boar-hunting dogs, Great Danes have evolved into beloved family companions known for their loyalty, patience, and gentle disposition. Despite their hunting heritage, modern Great Danes are typically calm, friendly dogs who thrive on human companionship.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about the Great Dane—from their fascinating history to their specific care requirements and whether this regal giant might be the right companion for your lifestyle and experience level.
Basic Information
The Great Dane is a giant breed known for its elegant appearance, gentle nature, and impressive stature. Despite their formidable size, these dogs are typically friendly, patient, and affectionate companions.
| Other Names | German Mastiff, Deutsche Dogge |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Working (AKC) |
| Origin | Germany |
| Height | 28-32+ inches (males 30-32+", females 28-30") |
| Weight | 110-175+ pounds (males 140-175+, females 110-140) |
| Lifespan | 7-10 years |
| Coat | Short, smooth, glossy; various colors and patterns |
| Colors | Fawn, brindle, blue, black, harlequin, mantle |
| Temperament | Friendly, patient, dependable, gentle, confident |
| Energy Level | Moderate - requires regular but not strenuous exercise |
| Good With | Families, children, other pets when properly socialized |
Did You Know?
The Great Dane holds the Guinness World Record for the tallest dog ever recorded. Zeus, a Great Dane from Michigan, measured an astonishing 44 inches at the shoulder! Despite their massive size, Great Danes are known for their gentle nature and are often called "gentle giants." The breed's name is somewhat misleading, as they originated in Germany, not Denmark. The name "Great Dane" likely came from a French naturalist who saw the breed in Denmark and referred to it as "Grand Danois" (Great Danish).
History and Origin
The Great Dane has a rich history dating back centuries, with ancestors that include ancient mastiff-type dogs and Irish Wolfhounds.
German Origins
The Great Dane as we know it today was developed in Germany during the 19th century, though its ancestors date back much further. These dogs were originally bred from English Mastiffs and Irish Wolfhounds to create a powerful yet agile hunting dog capable of bringing down wild boar, which were dangerous and formidable prey.
German nobility prized these impressive dogs for their hunting prowess and regal appearance. They were known as "Kammerhunde" (Chamber Dogs) and were often kept in noble households as status symbols and protectors. The breed was officially recognized in Germany in 1878, and a standard was established in Berlin in 1880.
From Hunter to Companion
As hunting large game became less common, the Great Dane's role evolved from hunter to companion and estate guardian. Their gentle nature and impressive appearance made them popular among European nobility. The breed was introduced to America in the late 19th century and quickly gained popularity. The Great Dane Club of America was founded in 1889, making it one of the oldest breed clubs in the United States. Today, while no longer used for hunting wild boar, Great Danes retain their noble bearing and have become beloved family companions worldwide.
Breed Development Timeline
- Ancient Times: Mastiff and Wolfhound ancestors used for hunting
- Middle Ages: Developed in Germany as boar-hunting dogs
- 16th Century: Known as "English Dogges" in Germany
- 19th Century: Standardized as a breed in Germany
- 1880: First breed standard established in Berlin
- 1889: Great Dane Club of America founded
- Present Day: Popular family companion and show dog
Appearance & Physical Traits
The Great Dane is an impressively tall, well-proportioned dog with a noble expression and elegant, powerful build.
Physical Characteristics
- Body: Square proportions, muscular and elegant with strong bone structure
- Head: Rectangular, long and noble with a pronounced stop
- Eyes: Medium size, dark, almond-shaped with intelligent expression
- Ears: Medium size, high set, naturally fold forward; often cropped in some regions
- Tail: High set, medium length, tapering to point
- Gait: Long, easy strides with powerful reach and drive
Coat and Colors
The Great Dane's coat is short, thick, and glossy, coming in several recognized color varieties:
- Coat Type: Short, thick, close-lying, and glossy
- Color Patterns: Six recognized varieties with specific standards
- Accepted Colors: Fawn, brindle, blue, black, harlequin, mantle
- Markings: Specific to each color variety; black mask in fawn and brindle
- Disqualifications: Merle pattern in non-harlequin varieties, white Danes
Size and Proportion
Great Danes are among the tallest dog breeds with balanced proportions:
- Height: Males 30-32+ inches; females 28-30 inches at shoulder
- Weight: Males 140-175+ pounds; females 110-140 pounds
- Build: Square proportions (height at shoulder equals body length)
- Substance: Substantial bone and well-developed muscle
Temperament & Personality
The Great Dane's temperament combines gentle affection with confident dignity, creating a regal yet friendly companion.
Gentle & Affectionate
Great Danes are famously gentle and affectionate with their families. They form strong bonds and are known for their sweet, patient nature, especially with children.
Friendly & Social
These dogs are typically friendly and social when properly socialized. They usually enjoy meeting new people and get along well with other animals.
Calm & Dignified
Despite their size, Great Danes are generally calm indoors and have a dignified presence. They're often described as "couch potatoes" who enjoy lounging with their families.
Confident & Watchful
Great Danes are confident dogs with natural protective instincts. They make excellent watchdogs who will alert to anything unusual but are rarely aggressive without cause.
Important Temperament Considerations
Great Danes are generally friendly and gentle but require proper socialization from an early age due to their size and protective instincts. Their massive stature means that even accidental bumps or leaning can be problematic, so they need to be taught appropriate behavior around people, especially children. They mature slowly, both physically and mentally, and may not reach full maturity until 2-3 years of age. Great Danes can be reserved with strangers but should never be shy or aggressive without cause. Early positive experiences with various people, places, and situations are crucial for developing a well-adjusted adult. Their gentle nature means they thrive on positive reinforcement training methods and do not respond well to harsh correction.
Temperament Traits
Exercise & Activity Needs
Despite their large size, Great Danes have moderate exercise requirements and are generally calm indoors.
Daily Exercise
30-60 Minutes
Regular walks, gentle play sessions, or supervised activities. Great Danes benefit from consistent, moderate exercise rather than strenuous activity.
Avoid over-exercising puppies to protect developing joints.
Mental Stimulation
Daily
Training sessions, puzzle toys, and scent work provide necessary mental challenges. Their intelligent nature needs regular engagement.
Prevents boredom while accommodating their calm nature.
Indoor Activity
As Desired
Great Danes are generally calm indoors and content with moderate activity. They appreciate comfortable resting areas and family companionship.
Known as excellent "couch potatoes" when properly exercised.
Weekly Exercise Schedule
- Daily: 30-60 minutes of walking divided into multiple shorter sessions
- 4-5 times per week: Short training sessions or interactive games
- Weekly: Opportunities for gentle exploration in secure areas
- Ongoing: Access to appropriate chew toys and mental stimulation
Exercise Considerations
Great Dane puppies should not be over-exercised during their growth period to protect developing joints. Avoid strenuous exercise like long runs or jumping until they reach physical maturity around 18-24 months. These giant breeds are prone to joint issues, so maintaining a healthy weight is crucial. Great Danes are sensitive to heat due to their short coats and large size, so exercise during cooler parts of the day in warm weather and provide plenty of fresh water. They're not built for endurance activities but enjoy gentle walks and moderate play. Always use a sturdy leash and properly fitted harness for walks, as their strength can be difficult to manage if they pull. Be mindful of their height when choosing walking routes to avoid low-hanging obstacles.
Diet & Nutrition
Proper nutrition is essential for Great Danes, who require a carefully balanced diet to support their giant size and prevent rapid growth.
Puppy Diet
0-18 Months
Large breed puppy food formulated for controlled growth, fed 3-4 times daily. Proper calcium-phosphorus balance is crucial for bone development.
Puppies need frequent, measured meals for proper skeletal growth.
Adult Diet
1.5-6 Years
High-quality adult giant breed dog food with balanced protein and controlled calories. Adults typically need 6-10 cups daily, divided into two meals.
Adjust portions based on activity level and metabolism.
Senior Diet
6+ Years
Senior formula with joint support, controlled calories, and adjusted nutrient levels. Monitor weight as metabolism slows and adjust portions accordingly.
Seniors may need smaller, more frequent meals.
Nutritional Requirements
- Protein: Moderate levels from high-quality sources (22-26%)
- Fat: Controlled levels to prevent excessive weight gain
- Joint Support: Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health
- Calcium-Phosphorus Balance: Crucial for proper bone development
- Portion Control: Critical to prevent obesity and related health issues
Feeding Considerations
Great Danes are deep-chested dogs prone to bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), a life-threatening condition. Feed multiple small meals rather than one large meal, and avoid vigorous exercise before and after eating. Elevated feeding stations may actually increase bloat risk. Monitor for food allergies, which can manifest as skin issues. Always provide fresh water and avoid rapid eating by using slow feeder bowls if necessary. Great Danes are prone to obesity, which can exacerbate joint problems, so careful portion control is essential. Consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations based on your Great Dane's age, activity level, and health status. The cost of feeding a Great Dane can be substantial due to their size.
Health & Care
Great Danes are generally healthy but like many giant breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions and have a shorter lifespan than smaller dogs.
Common Health Concerns
| Health Condition | Description | Prevention/Management |
|---|---|---|
| Hip & Elbow Dysplasia | Developmental abnormalities of joints | Weight management, proper nutrition, screening breeding dogs |
| Bloat (GDV) | Life-threatening stomach torsion | Multiple small meals, no exercise around mealtimes, preventive surgery |
| Heart Conditions | Dilated cardiomyopathy, other cardiac issues | Regular cardiac screening, medication management |
| Osteosarcoma | Aggressive bone cancer | Early detection, veterinary monitoring, prompt treatment |
| Hypothyroidism | Underactive thyroid affecting metabolism | Medication, regular blood tests, weight management |
| Wobbler Syndrome | Neurological condition affecting neck vertebrae | Medical management, surgery in severe cases |
Grooming Requirements
The Great Dane's short coat is relatively low-maintenance but requires regular attention.
Regular Brushing
Weekly
Weekly brushing with rubber curry brush or grooming mitt. Regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care. Bathing as needed.
Minimal shedding that increases seasonally.
Nail & Dental Care
Weekly
Regular nail trimming to prevent joint stress. Daily dental care to prevent periodontal disease. Professional grooming optional.
Essential for overall health and comfort.
Preventive Care
- Regular Veterinary Visits: Semi-annual check-ups recommended for giants
- Dental Care: Daily brushing and professional cleanings as needed
- Weight Management: Critical to prevent joint stress and other issues
- Joint Health: Appropriate exercise and supplements as recommended
- Parasite Prevention: Regular flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
Training & Behavior
Training a Great Dane requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of their gentle but sometimes stubborn nature.
Training Approach
- Positive Reinforcement: Use reward-based training with high-value treats, praise, and affection
- Early Start: Begin training and socialization from 8-10 weeks old
- Consistency: Establish clear rules and expectations from the beginning
- Gentle Methods: Great Danes are sensitive and do not respond well to harsh correction
- Short Sessions: Keep training brief and engaging to maintain focus
Socialization Needs
Early and extensive socialization is crucial for Great Danes:
- Puppy Classes: Enroll in puppy kindergarten for early socialization
- Various Environments: Expose to different people, places, and situations
- Controlled Introductions: Supervised meetings with various people and animals
- Positive Experiences: Ensure new experiences are positive and not overwhelming
Training Tips
Great Danes respond best to positive reinforcement methods and patient, consistent training. Their intelligence means they learn quickly but may challenge commands that seem arbitrary. Socialization is particularly important to ensure they develop into well-adjusted adults comfortable with their size. Training should focus on establishing reliable obedience and solid manners, with special emphasis on not jumping up or leaning on people due to their massive size. Remember that Great Danes mature slowly and may not reach full mental maturity until 2-3 years of age. Be patient and consistent, and celebrate small victories. These gentle giants excel when training is built on mutual trust and respect. Early leash training is essential for managing their size and strength.
Common Behavioral Issues
- Leaning: May lean against people, which can be problematic due to size
- Counter Surfing: Can easily reach countertops due to height
- Jumping Up: Excitable greeting behavior that needs management
- Separation Anxiety: Can develop when left alone for long periods
- Stubbornness: May ignore commands if not properly motivated
Living Environment
Great Danes can adapt to various living situations when their needs for space, comfort, and companionship are met.
Ideal Home Setup
- Space: Best suited for homes with ample indoor space and access to a yard
- Secure Fencing: Important for safety and peace of mind
- Indoor Access: Should live indoors as part of the family
- Comfortable Resting: Orthopedic beds to support joints, multiple resting areas
Family Compatibility
- Children: Generally excellent with children; supervision with young children due to size
- Other Pets: Usually good with other pets when properly introduced
- Seniors: May be suitable for less active households due to calm nature
- First-time Owners: Possible with proper research and commitment to training
Important Considerations
Great Danes are massive dogs that require proper space and accommodations. Their size means they can accidentally knock over furniture, people, or children. They need sturdy, appropriately sized equipment including beds, bowls, and crates. Their height allows them to easily reach countertops, so food security is important. Potential owners should be prepared for substantial food and veterinary costs. Great Danes are best suited for households where someone is home regularly, as they thrive on companionship. They're sensitive to extreme temperatures and need climate-controlled environments. Their shorter lifespan means owners must be prepared for the heartbreak of losing their companion sooner than with smaller breeds. Always consider the practicalities of transporting a giant breed before acquiring one.
Best Living Situation
The ideal home for a Great Dane is with an individual or family who:
- Has adequate space for a giant breed
- Can provide consistent training and socialization
- Values a gentle, affectionate companion
- Can afford substantial food and veterinary costs
- Is prepared for a shorter lifespan and potential health issues
Cost & Availability
Great Danes are a popular breed with specific considerations regarding cost and availability.
Initial Costs
| Expense | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,500 - $3,000+ | From reputable breeders; show quality at higher end |
| Adoption Fee | $300 - $600 | From shelters or breed-specific rescues |
| Initial Supplies | $500 - $1,000+ | Extra-large crate, bed, bowls, collar, leash, grooming tools |
| Initial Vet Care | $500 - $1,000 | Exams, vaccinations, spay/neuter, microchip |
| Training Classes | $200 - $500 | Puppy kindergarten and basic obedience |
Annual Costs
- Food: $1,200 - $2,000+ for high-quality giant breed dog food
- Veterinary Care: $800 - $2,000+ for routine care and potential health issues
- Grooming: $200 - $500 for supplies or professional grooming
- Preventive Medications: $400 - $800 for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
- Training/Activities: $200 - $500 for ongoing classes or activities
- Miscellaneous: $400 - $800 for toys, treats, replacements
- Insurance: $800 - $1,500+ for giant breed insurance
Availability
- Breeders: Reputable breeders available; research essential
- Rescues: Available through shelters and breed-specific rescues
- Popularity: Consistently among top 20 most popular breeds in U.S.
- Geographic Variation: Available throughout the country
- Waiting Period: May be wait for puppies from reputable breeders
Similar Breeds
If you're interested in the Great Dane but want to explore similar breeds, consider these alternatives:
Irish Wolfhound
Similar giant size and gentle temperament but with different coat and heritage. Generally similar exercise needs with different grooming requirements.
Mastiff
Similar giant size but heavier build and different temperament. Generally more protective with different exercise needs and appearance.
Doberman Pinscher
Similar elegance and intelligence but smaller size and different temperament. Generally more energetic with different exercise needs.
Weimaraner
Similar elegance and hunting heritage but smaller size and different temperament. Generally higher energy with different exercise needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Great Danes can be excellent family pets for the right families. They're typically gentle, patient, and affectionate with children they're raised with. However, their massive size means supervision is essential, especially with young children who could be accidentally knocked over. They form strong bonds with their families and are generally calm and affectionate indoors. Great Danes are known for their friendly nature and protective instincts, which can make them excellent family companions. They're best suited for families with adequate space and who can manage their substantial size, exercise needs, and potential health issues. With proper training, socialization, and care, Great Danes can be wonderful family companions.
Despite their giant size, Great Danes have relatively moderate exercise needs. They typically require 30-60 minutes of daily activity, preferably divided into multiple shorter sessions. This should include gentle walks and moderate play. Great Danes are not endurance athletes and can overheat easily due to their size. Puppies should not be over-exercised to protect developing joints. Mental stimulation is also important for this intelligent breed. While they enjoy outdoor time, Great Danes are generally calm indoors and are often described as "couch potatoes" who are content to lounge with their families. Their exercise requirements make them suitable for less active households, though they still need regular activity to maintain health.
Great Danes are not typically aggressive, but they are protective guardians with instincts to defend their family and territory. With proper socialization and training, they learn to distinguish between normal situations and genuine threats. They're generally friendly and social rather than overtly aggressive. However, their protective nature means they may be wary of strangers and react defensively if they perceive a threat. This is why early and ongoing socialization is crucial. In the hands of inexperienced owners or without proper training, their protective instincts can become problematic. Well-bred Great Danes should have stable temperaments and be neither shy nor aggressive without cause. Responsible ownership and proper training are essential for well-adjusted behavior.
Great Danes can adapt to apartment living if their exercise needs are properly met, but they're generally better suited to homes with more space. Their giant size means they need adequate room to move comfortably indoors, and they can accidentally damage furniture or belongings in tight spaces. Additionally, their substantial size can make navigating stairs difficult, especially as they age. While exceptionally well-trained Great Danes might adapt to apartment life with dedicated owners who provide sufficient exercise and access to outdoor areas, this breed is generally better suited for homes with more space. Apartment dwellers must be committed to providing daily walks and regular trips to parks or other areas where the dog can exercise properly.
Great Danes typically get along well with other pets, especially when raised with them from puppyhood. Their generally gentle and friendly nature makes them good companions for other animals. However, their massive size means interactions should always be supervised, especially with smaller pets who could be accidentally injured. Proper introduction and supervision are essential when adding new pets to the household. Early socialization helps them learn to interact appropriately with other animals. Some Great Danes may have a higher prey drive due to their hunting heritage, so careful management is necessary, particularly with cats or other small pets. With proper training and socialization, most Great Danes live happily with other animals, but their interactions should always be monitored.
The average lifespan of a Great Dane is 7-10 years, which is typical for giant breeds but shorter than smaller dogs. With excellent care, some individuals may live slightly longer, but it's uncommon for Great Danes to reach 10 years. Factors that influence lifespan include genetics, diet, exercise, preventive veterinary care, and management of breed-specific health issues. Providing a healthy lifestyle with proper weight management, regular veterinary check-ups, attention to joint health, and prompt treatment of any health concerns can help ensure your Great Dane lives a long, healthy life. Be aware that like all giant breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions like joint dysplasia, cardiac issues, and bloat that can affect quality of life and longevity.
Great Danes are intelligent and generally eager to please, but they can be stubborn and independent thinkers. They respond best to positive reinforcement training, patience, and consistency. Their intelligence means they learn quickly but may challenge commands that don't seem purposeful to them. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial. Their independent thinking means they may not always obey immediately, especially if they perceive a more pressing guardian duty. Training requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of the breed's characteristics. They're best suited for owners who can provide confident, gentle leadership. While not the easiest breed to train, they're certainly trainable with the right approach and dedication.
Great Danes can be challenging for first-time dog owners due to their massive size, strength, potential health issues, and substantial costs. Their size alone makes them difficult to manage for inexperienced owners. However, their generally gentle temperament and lower exercise needs can make them more manageable than some other large breeds. A dedicated first-time owner who does thorough research, works with experienced trainers, commits to proper socialization, and is prepared for the financial responsibility could potentially succeed with a Great Dane. That said, most experts recommend starting with a less challenging breed. If a first-time owner chooses a Great Dane, professional training classes, mentorship from experienced owners, and careful selection from a reputable breeder are highly recommended.
Bottom Line: Is a Great Dane Right for You?
The Great Dane is a magnificent giant breed with regal bearing and a surprisingly gentle, affectionate nature. These "Apollo of Dogs" combine immense stature with a sweet disposition that belies their formidable appearance. However, they're not the right choice for everyone. Their massive size, substantial costs, potential health issues, and shorter lifespan require committed, prepared owners. They thrive in homes with adequate space and families who understand and respect their giant breed needs. If you're prepared for the challenges of owning a gentle giant and can provide the necessary training, proper healthcare, and loving environment, a Great Dane might be your perfect companion. This noble breed rewards dedicated owners with unwavering loyalty, gentle affection, and a majestic presence that has made them beloved companions for centuries.
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