Top Ten Dog Breeds

Great Dane close up Great Dane Great Dane in snow

Great Dane - Overview and History

The Great Dane, also known as the Dane and the Gentle Giant, is a breed of dog in the Working Group. This dog breed is famous not only for its gargantuan size but also for its patient and gentle personality. The Great Dane was recognized by the AKC in 1887 and AKC approved in 1999.

Great Dane - Physical Characteristics

Height and weight requirements for show Great Danes vary, but generally the minimum weight falls between 100 and 120 pounds and the minimum height must be between 28 and 32 inches at the withers. Most Great Dane breed standards do not specify a maximum height or weight. A male Great Dane may weigh up to 200 pounds. In August 2004, a Great Dane named "Gibson" from Grass Valley, California was recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the world's tallest dog, measuring 42.2 inches at the withers.

Great Dane - Health Characteristics

Great Danes typically live 8-16 years, with average being around 10 years. Like most giant dogs, they have a fairly slow metabolism. This results in less energy and less food consumption per pound of dog than in smaller dog breeds. Great Danes have some health problems that are common to large breeds. These include: bloat, hip dysplasia, and dilated cardiomyopathy.

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