Standing tall as the Apollo of dogs, the Great Dane commands attention wherever they go.
These magnificent gentle giants combine imposing size with remarkable grace.
Originally bred for boar hunting in Germany (where they’re called Deutsche Dogge), these massive dog breeds have evolved from fierce hunters to beloved family pets.
My journey with Great Danes began when a blue Great Dane puppy stumbled into my life, forever changing my understanding of what large dog care truly means.
Despite their intimidating stature (with record-holder Zeus reaching 44 inches tall), these dogs possess perhaps the gentlest canine temperament among giant breed options.
This guide explores everything prospective and current owners need to know:
- Essential home setup requirements
- Critical giant dog health issues to monitor
- Practical grooming tips for these short coat companions
- Effective Great Dane training methods
Whether you’re considering adoption through Dane rescue organizations or researching reputable breeders, understand what makes these companion animals uniquely challenging yet incomparably rewarding.
Great Dane Breed Statistics
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany (originally called Deutsche Dogge) |
| Height | Males: 30-34 inches, Females: 28-32 inches |
| Weight | Males: 140-175 lbs, Females: 110-140 lbs |
| Lifespan | 7-10 years (short lifespan typical of giant breed) |
| Colors | Fawn, Blue, Black, Brindle, Harlequin pattern, Merle, Mantle |
| Coat Type | Short coat, smooth, dense |
| Shedding Level | Moderate |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate (30-60 minutes daily) |
| Temperament | Gentle temperament, friendly, patient, dependable |
| Good with Children | Excellent (with supervision due to size) |
| Good with Other Pets | Generally good (early socialization recommended) |
| Trainability | High (responds well to positive methods) |
| Apartment Suitable | Yes, with adequate exercise (apartment living large dogs) |
| Protective Nature | Moderate (good watchdog, not aggressive) |
| Drooling Tendency | High (needs drooling management) |
| Common Health Issues | Bloat in dogs (GDV), hip dysplasia, dilated cardiomyopathy, bone cancer |
| Food Consumption | 6-10 cups daily (high-quality large breed nutrition) |
| Monthly Food Cost | $80-150 |
| Grooming Needs | Low (weekly brushing) |
| Recognition | American Kennel Club (Working Group) |
| Popularity Rank | 24th (AKC 2023) |
| Notable Examples | Scooby-Doo, Marmaduke, Zeus (tallest dog record) |
Bringing a Great Dane Home
Preparing Your Space
Living with a gentle giant requires thoughtful preparation. Great Danes might be family friendly giants, but their size demands special considerations.
My apartment quickly transformed into a giant dog paradise. These massive dog breeds need room to stretch – a minimum of 500-600 square feet of navigable space.
Counter heights matter. Apollo of dogs can easily reach kitchen counters. I learned this when my Blue Great Dane snatched an entire roast chicken.
Safety-proofing for a giant breed includes:
- Securing trash cans with locking lids
- Elevating houseplants (toxic ones completely removed)
- Installing baby gates at restricted areas
- Using cord protectors for electrical wires
The German Mastiff breed needs clear pathways. Remove fragile items from tail-wagging zones and coffee tables. Your tall canine will thank you by breaking fewer things!
Initial Costs and Supplies
Bringing home a Great Dane puppy involves significant investment. From American Kennel Club registered breeders, expect $1,500-$3,000. Dane rescue organizations offer adults for $300-$600.
Essential supplies sized for XXL dog beds territory:
- Extra-large crate (48″ minimum)
- Elevated food bowls to prevent bloat
- Heavy-duty toys resistant to powerful jaws
- Walking equipment designed for large breed strength
- Orthopedic dog beds to support joints
Budget planning must include pet insurance for large breeds. My monthly costs for Thor run about $200-$350, covering premium food, preventative care, and saving for emergencies.
Remember: Giant breed health issues can be expensive. The PetMD website recommends setting aside emergency funds specifically for unexpected dog cardiac issues.
Finding a Healthy Puppy
When searching for my Harlequin pattern puppy, I visited both reputable breeders and Great Dane Club of America events. The difference in quality was striking.
Responsible breeders screen for hip dysplasia and dilated cardiomyopathy. They’ll provide documentation from University of Tennessee Veterinary Medical Center or similar facilities.
Questions I asked:
- What health tests do your breeding dogs undergo?
- How do you socialize puppies?
- Can I meet both parents?
- What giant dog health issues appear in your lines?
- Will you take the dog back if I can’t keep it?
Avoid breeders who dismiss concerns about dog heart problems or gastric dilatation volvulus. Trust your gut. My breeder’s transparent health policies saved me heartache.
Daily Care and Management
Feeding Your Giant
Proper large dog care starts with nutrition. These dogs have specific dietary needs that change dramatically through growth stages.
For puppies:
- Feed puppy development stages-appropriate food
- Avoid excessive protein that speeds growth
- Follow dog food brands designed for large breed puppies
- Consider Royal Canin or Purina Pro Plan formulas specifically for giant breeds
- Monitor calcium levels to protect growing bones
Adult Great Danes require 6-10 cups of food daily, divided into 2-3 meals. Never feed immediately before or after exercise to prevent bloat in dogs – a deadly condition.
Elevated bowls remain controversial. Some veterinary associations recommend them, while others cite studies showing increased bloat risk. I compromise with slightly raised dishes.
Exercise Needs
Despite their size, Great Danes aren’t high-energy dogs. They’re surprisingly comfortable as apartment dogs with proper exercise.
My daily routine includes:
- 30-minute morning walk
- Mid-day bathroom break
- Evening 30-minute stroll
- Weekends: longer park visits
Puppy exercise differs dramatically. Limit structured walks until 18 months when canine growth plates close. Focus on free play and puppy socialization instead.
Avoid jumping until maturity. Dog skeletal issues can develop from too much impact. Mental stimulation through training satisfies their intelligent working dog history traits without physical strain.
Grooming Basics
The short coat care needs of Great Danes make grooming manageable despite their size. They’re moderate shedders – not excessive like some German dog breeds.
Weekly care includes:
- Brushing with rubber curry brush
- Nail, ear, and dental maintenance
- Checking for skin issues
- Wiping body with damp cloth to control drooling management
Bathing this massive dog breed becomes an event. I use the bathtub with a handheld sprayer, though some prefer self-service pet washes. Dry thoroughly to prevent skin issues common in short coat breeds.
Drooling management becomes part of life. Keep washcloths handy throughout your home. After meals, wipe mouth folds to prevent irritation.
Their short coat doesn’t eliminate grooming tips needs. Regular brushing distributes oils and removes dead hair before it coats your furniture.
Training Your Great Dane
Starting Early
Puppy socialization begins immediately. These giant dog breeds need positive exposure to various people, environments, and situations before 16 weeks.
My Fawn Great Dane attended puppy classes at 10 weeks. The American Kennel Club recommends early training for breeds with protective breeds tendencies.
Foundation commands for your German Mastiff:
- Sit-stay (crucial for gentle temperament development)
- Down (helps manage counter surfing prevention)
- Leave it (vital for a breed with dog dietary needs)
- Heel (essential for leash training a powerful dog)
Managing jumping and leaning habits requires consistency. When my Blue Great Dane jumped, I turned away immediately. For leaning, I stepped aside. Both behaviors diminished within weeks.
Handling Special Challenges
Leash training a powerful dog begins with proper equipment. A front-clip harness gives control without harm. I switched from choke chains after discovering their risks through the Canine Good Citizen program.
Counter surfing prevention strategies that worked for my gentle giant:
- Teaching solid “off” command
- Using baby gates when cooking
- Providing appropriate chews as alternatives
- Keeping counters clear of temptations
Managing furniture privileges requires clear rules. My approach allows couch time by invitation only. A designated blanket signals permission. This clarity prevents confusion for a dog with companion animals instincts.
Advanced Training
Beyond basics, Great Danes excel with specialized training methods that work well for their intelligence. Clicker training leverages their eager-to-please nature without challenging their working dog history.
Commands beneficial for large dog training:
- Place (go to bed/mat)
- Wait at doors
- Loose leash walking
- Greeting visitors calmly
Professional help signals wisdom, not failure. I consulted a trainer when my Merle Great Dane developed fear of strangers. The dog training methods they used transformed his confidence within weeks.
Health and Wellness
Common Health Issues
Great Danes face specific health challenges that careful owners monitor. Bloat/gastric torsion risks (or gastric dilatation volvulus) tops the list – this emergency requires immediate veterinary care.
Bloat prevention strategies:
- Feed multiple small meals
- Avoid exercise around mealtimes
- Consider prophylactic gastropexy surgery
- Recognize symptoms: restlessness, failed vomiting attempts
Hip and joint problems affect many massive dog breeds. I give canine joint supplements recommended by the Tufts Veterinary School research.
My vet suggested glucosamine and chondroitin when my dog turned two.
Dog cardiac issues, especially dilated cardiomyopathy, require regular monitoring. Heart conditions symptoms include:
- Decreased exercise tolerance
- Coughing
- Rapid breathing
- Weight loss despite normal appetite
Preventive Care
Vaccination schedule adherence remains crucial. My Deutsche Dogge sees the vet quarterly during the first year, then biannually.
Regular check-ups and screening caught my dog’s heart murmur early.
Annual testing recommended for giant dog health:
- Complete blood count
- Heartworm test
- Thyroid panel
- Cardiac evaluation
Weight management importance cannot be overstated. Each extra pound stresses already taxed joints. My vet considers my Harlequin pattern boy at ideal weight when ribs are easily felt but not seen.
Lifespan and Aging
The heartbreaking reality: Great Danes have a short lifespan of 7-10 years. Their giant breed lifespan feels unfairly brief. Making those years quality-filled becomes the mission.
Senior dog care adjustments begin around age 5-6:
- Lower impact exercise
- More frequent vet visits
- Joint support supplements
- Possible diet changes
Watch for signs of aging like:
- Gray muzzle (often begins by age 4)
- Reduced activity level
- Stiffness after resting
- Increased sleep needs
My Great Dane entered his golden years with dignity and comfort because we adjusted his care gradually. Proper vet partnership made these transitions smoother.
Living With Your Great Dane
Family Integration
Great Danes and children create wonderful bonds when properly supervised. My gentle giant became my daughter’s guardian, though I never leave them unsupervised despite his gentle temperament.
Rules for children and Great Danes:
- No riding the dog (despite Marmaduke portrayal)
- Respect sleeping space
- Teach proper petting techniques
- Create dog-free zones
Multi-pet households require thoughtful introductions. My Great Dane lives harmoniously with two cats through gradual exposure and supervised interactions.
Their size difference makes Scooby-Doo breed intimidating initially, but proper introductions help.
Establish clear setting boundaries and rules for everyone. Consistency matters more than specific rules you choose.
My large dog care approach includes designated eating areas and clear furniture guidelines for all companion animals.
Public Outings
Managing reactions to your dog becomes routine. I prepare scripted responses to common questions about my German Mastiff:
- “No, he doesn’t have a saddle”
- “He eats less than you’d think”
- “Yes, that’s really a puppy”
Travel considerations require planning. Westminster Dog Show competitors know special requirements for large breed transport.
I researched dog-friendly activities and spaces before trips, calling hotels to confirm weight limits don’t apply.
Successful public outings involve preparation:
- Practice Canine Good Citizen program skills beforehand
- Bring water and portable bowl
- Know your dog’s stress signals
- Research pet policies in advance
- Consider using “In Training” vest for space
Everyday Challenges
Solutions for common household issues develop naturally. My tall canine reaches counters easily, so I installed child locks on lower cabinets and keeps food pushed back from edges.
Managing drool and shedding becomes automatic with:
- Strategic drool towels throughout home
- Washable slipcovers on furniture
- Regular grooming tips implementation
- Quick-grab cleaning supplies
Furniture, beds, and space sharing requires creativity. My king bed accommodates my Harlequin pattern dog when invited.
Giant dog furniture investments saved money long-term versus replacing chewed cushions.
The rewards outweigh challenges. Despite drooling management and occasional giant dog health issues, their loyalty makes them incredible companions.
As Count Otto von Bismarck reportedly said about the breed originally bred for boar hunting, they possess the soul of a gentleman.
FAQ on Great Dane
How big do Great Danes get?
Great Danes rank among the tallest canine breeds. Males typically stand 30-34 inches at the shoulder and weigh 140-175 pounds.
Females reach 28-32 inches and 110-140 pounds. The Guinness World Record holder Zeus measured 44 inches tall!
Their massive dog breed status requires specialized XXL dog beds and consideration for apartment living large dogs.
What is the lifespan of a Great Dane?
The giant breed lifespan of a Great Dane averages 7-10 years, significantly shorter than smaller breeds.
This short lifespan results from their rapid growth and size-related dog heart problems. With excellent care, some reach 12 years.
Quality veterinary partnerships with PetMD-recommended screenings can maximize their years.
Are Great Danes good family dogs?
Great Danes make excellent family pets despite their imposing size. Originally developed for boar hunting, modern Great Danes possess a gentle temperament that earned them the nickname “gentle giants.”
They typically love children but need supervision due to their size. Their protective breeds background makes them naturally watchful without aggression.
How much do Great Danes eat?
Adult Great Danes typically consume 6-10 cups of high-quality food daily, costing $80-150 monthly.
Puppy nutrition differs dramatically, requiring special large breed puppies formulas to prevent too-rapid growth.
Dog food brands like Royal Canin and Eukanuba offer specific giant breed formulations addressing their unique canine dietary needs.
Do Great Danes have health problems?
Great Danes face several serious health challenges. Bloat in dogs (gastric dilatation-volvulus) represents the greatest threat, requiring emergency surgery.
Other concerns include dilated cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia, and bone cancer.
Working with breeders screening through the University of Tennessee Veterinary Medical Center helps reduce risks.
How much exercise do Great Danes need?
Despite their size, Great Danes have moderate exercise needs. Adults benefit from two 30-minute walks daily plus playtime.
Puppies require less structured exercise while their canine growth plates develop.
Mental stimulation through dog training methods helps satisfy their intelligence without stressing growing joints.
Are Great Danes easy to train?
Great Danes possess high trainability with proper methods. Early puppy socialization through programs like the Canine Good Citizen certification establishes foundations.
Their working dog history gives them intelligence, while their desire to please facilitates learning. Consistency matters most, especially for counter surfing prevention and leash training a powerful dog.
How much do Great Dane puppies cost?
Great Dane puppies from reputable breeders with American Kennel Club registration typically cost $1,500-3,000.
Dane rescue organizations offer adults for $300-600. Initial setup requires another $500-1,000 for properly sized equipment.
Pet insurance for large breeds averages $50-100 monthly, highly recommended given their health concerns.
What colors do Great Danes come in?
The American Kennel Club recognizes several color variations: fawn, brindle, blue, black, mantle, harlequin pattern (white with black patches), and merle Great Dane (marbled pattern).
The fawn Great Dane has a golden coat with a black mask, while the striking blue Great Dane displays a steel-blue coloration. Canine color genetics create these distinctive patterns.
Do Great Danes drool a lot?
Yes, drooling management becomes part of life with a German Mastiff. The loose jowls of this mastiff variety produce significant drool, especially after drinking, eating, or during excitement.
Strategic placement of towels throughout your home helps manage this natural characteristic. Various grooming tips can minimize, but never eliminate, this trait.
Conclusion
Welcoming a Great Dane into your life transforms your world in ways both challenging and beautiful.
These gentle giants with their short coat and enormous hearts demand commitment but reward it thousandfold.
My journey with this German dog breed taught me patience, consistency, and unconditional love.
The Apollo of dogs brings unique considerations:
- Financial planning for large breed nutrition needs
- Home modifications suited for a tall canine
- Regular partnership with veterinarians knowledgeable about giant dog health issues
- Understanding their place in dog breed history from Count Otto von Bismarck’s era
Though their giant breed lifespan feels unfairly short, the quality of that time matters most.
With proper care addressing common concerns like hip dysplasia and bloat in dogs, your loyal companion will thrive.
The Westminster Dog Show may celebrate their elegance, but daily life reveals their true magic—an extraordinary blend of dignity, goofiness, and devotion that makes every challenge worthwhile.
