Great Dane
Pros
Cons
Introduction of the Great Dane
The Great Dane is a truly majestic giant breed, known for its noble stature paired with a strikingly gentle temperament, often affectionately called the “gentle giant”. This breed stands out in the dog world for marrying an imposing size with an affectionate nature, making it a beloved family pet and companion that impresses as much with personality as with presence.
Originally developed for hunting large game and serving as guard dogs, Great Danes have seamlessly adapted their purpose over centuries into devoted family companions and elegant house pets. Despite being one of the largest breeds worldwide, they retain a playful, approachable temperament, demonstrating both strength and sensitivity. These dogs thrive in households that offer ample space and time for exercise, where they can balance periods of calm resting with meaningful interaction and play.
Great Danes suit experienced dog owners who have the capacity to meet their unique demands: a large living environment with secure garden space, and a commitment to consistent training and socialisation. Their exercise needs, while moderate-to-high, must be carefully managed during their puppyhood to protect growing joints, yet sustained into adulthood for muscle maintenance. Their relatively shorter lifespan and predisposition to breed-specific health issues require dedicated health monitoring and care.
Prospective owners must understand this breed’s needs for moderate grooming, early training, and strong social bonds since Great Danes develop separation anxiety if left too long alone. With the right approach, they are loving, intelligent, and playful giants who enrich family life with their affectionate loyalty and gentle manner.
Perfect For
Experienced owners familiar with large breeds seeking a loyal, gentle giant. Homes with spacious, secure gardens to accommodate their size and exercise needs. Families with older children who appreciate safe interaction with large dogs. Owners able to commit time to training, socialisation, and companionship.
Key Considerations
Requires significant space and robust facilities to manage their very large size safely. Needs early, consistent training focusing on socialisation and recall to manage natural prey drive. Prone to serious health concerns including bloat and dilated cardiomyopathy, requiring vigilant care. Not suited to first-time owners or those with limited space.
History of the Great Dane
The Great Dane’s lineage is rich and ancient, with large dog representations dating back to 3000 BC in Egyptian monuments, and similar depictions found in Babylonian and Assyrian art from 2000 BC, hinting at early ancestors of this impressive breed. While theories propose a Tibetan heritage linked to the Tibetan Mastiff, the modern Great Dane developed primarily from European large hunting breeds over centuries.
These dogs evolved through crosses involving large dogs utilized by Assyrian traders, Roman hunting dogs, and native British breeds, including possible Irish Greyhound and Irish Wolfhound influences. In the 18th century, French naturalist Comte de Buffon recognised their close relation to the Irish Wolfhound, noting their role with English and Roman armies. Historically, these dogs were extensively bred for wild boar hunting, earning the name “Boar Hounds” before being known as "English Dogges" by the 16th century.
Early Development
During the 17th and 18th centuries, German nobility developed the breed further, valuing them as "Kammerbunde" or "Chamber Dogs" kept indoors to protect their prized hunting companions. Although Buffon’s term “Great Dane” stuck internationally, Germans called the breed "Deutsche Dogge." Breeding goals focused on a taller, agile hunting dog distinct from heavier mastiff types. Across Europe, this breed is known by various names such as "Alano" in Italy.
Modern Recognition
The Great Dane appeared in the UK around 1877, quickly gaining favour among English landowners for game hunting and as stately family dogs. The first UK breed club was established in 1885, promoting consistent standards and responsible breeding. Today, the Great Dane enjoys wide recognition and enduring popularity, celebrated for loyalty, poise, and friendly demeanour.
- Great Danes are not listed as vulnerable in UK breed population data.
- Historical depictions trace back to ancient Egyptian and Roman eras.
- German aristocracy valued keeping these dogs inside homes, rare for large breeds.
- The tallest recorded Great Dane, Zeus, measured 44 inches at the shoulder, holding a Guinness World Record.
Appearance of the Great Dane
Size and Build
The Great Dane is a giant breed with males standing 76 to 81 cm tall at the shoulder and weighing 54 to 62 kg, while females measure slightly smaller, at 71 to 76 cm and 46 to 54 kg. Their physique combines elegance and power with a well-arched neck, broad chest, and muscular hindquarters providing strength and agility. Their body is well-proportioned, with a depth of chest reaching to the elbows.Coat and Colours
The coat is short, thick, and smooth with a sleek finish, requiring minimal grooming. Recognised colours by the Kennel Club include Black, Blue, Brindle, Fawn, Harlequin, and Mantle. The Brindle variety displays black stripes over a lighter buff to dark orange base, while Fawn ranges from light buff to deep orange. Blue ranges from pale grey to slate, and Harlequin features irregular black patches on white, occasionally accompanied by odd or wall eyes which are permitted by breed standards.Distinctive Features
The Great Dane’s head is large and rectangular with a broad muzzle and wide nasal bridge. They have large nostrils and a blunt nose shape. The lips slightly droop at the front, and they have a scissor bite. Eyes are medium-sized, set deep, typically dark except in harlequins. Ears are triangular, set high, folding forward without excessive pendulousness. The tail is thick at the base, tapering to a point, carried level or slightly curved during movement. Their gait is smooth, springy, and ground-covering, reflecting surprising agility for such a large dog.Gender Differences
Males tend to be larger with a broader head and more muscular frame compared to females, who are generally calmer and more patient, particularly around children. Temperament differences are subtle but consistent. Both require firm and consistent training to manage size and strength effectively.Faults according to the Kennel Club: Any exaggeration in size or proportions that hinders the dog’s health or movement will be penalised. Males must have both testicles descended. Variances in coat, teeth, or gait may affect show candidacy.
Temperament of the Great Dane
Core Personality Traits
Great Danes are renowned for their gentle, friendly, and outgoing manner. Despite their size, they are mild-mannered and deeply affectionate towards their family members. Their playful, sometimes goofy behaviour adds a delightful dimension to their presence. They develop strong bonds and show unwavering loyalty to their humans.Social Behavior
When properly socialised, Great Danes are amicable with strangers and other dogs, and they generally coexist peacefully with other pets including cats, if introductions are well managed. Their size requires careful supervision around toddlers and small children to avoid accidental knocks, but their tolerant nature often shines through.Working Instincts
Though originally bred for hunting and guarding, their guarding instinct is moderate; they tend to alert owners to strangers without undue aggression. They have a notable prey drive, reflecting their hunting heritage, so recall training is essential to prevent chasing smaller animals.Common Behavioral Challenges
Without early training and adequate socialisation, Great Danes can grow stubborn or willful, which is problematic due to their strength. They also risk separation anxiety if left alone too long, potentially leading to destructive behaviours. Consistent attention to their social needs prevents these challenges.Intelligence / Trainability of the Great Dane
Great Danes are intelligent dogs that learn efficiently but benefit greatly from early training started by owners experienced with large breeds. Their sensitive nature means harsh training methods can be counterproductive, so positive reinforcement, patience, and calm consistency work best.
Puppy Training Priorities
Initial socialisation is crucial during the first six months, focusing on exposure to diverse people, animals, places, and sounds to build confidence. Teaching basic commands—come, sit, stay, down, leave it, and quiet—earlier sets strong behavioural foundations.
Training Methods That Work
Positive reinforcement techniques involving treats, praise, and play motivate Great Danes best. Patience and a calm assertive approach are key to establishing respect without fear. Consistency in boundaries and rules ensures effective obedience.
Advanced Training Potential
These dogs excel in obedience competitions, therapy and assistance roles, and canine sports that match their size, including scent work. Their intelligence and eagerness enable them to master complex tasks when engaged mentally and physically.
Common Training Mistakes
Common mistakes include inconsistency, impatience, and harsh corrections, which may lead to resistance or anxiety. Neglecting socialisation or recall training risks behavioural problems and safety concerns given their size and prey instincts.
Children and other
Age-Specific Interactions
Great Danes are naturally patient and gentle with children of all ages, though supervision is essential, especially with toddlers, to prevent accidental injuries due to the dog’s large size. Older children and teenagers often enjoy active and playful interactions with the breed.Teaching Children Proper Interaction
Children should be taught respectful approaches, such as gentle petting and reading dog body language, avoiding loud noises or sudden movements that might startle the dog. Establishing clear rules prevents rough play and ensures the dog has a retreat space.Breed-Specific Considerations
Given their size, playtime is ideally outside to prevent damage indoors. Their considerable prey drive requires careful management with smaller pets and supervised interaction. Early training supports calm, safe behaviour around children.Creating Safe Environments
Homes with children should provide secure, spacious areas for the dog to move freely. Adults must always supervise to maintain respectful interactions, teaching children and dogs boundaries for harmonious coexistence.Health of the Great Dane
Breed-Specific Health Conditions
Great Danes are prone to health challenges typical of giant breeds, notably dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), gastric torsion (bloat), hip dysplasia, wobblers syndrome, Addison’s disease, glaucoma, osteosarcoma, flea allergic dermatitis, and splenic torsion. Prevalence rates vary, but owners and breeders must prioritise vigilance and early detection.Genetic Testing Requirements
Ethical breeders engage in the Breed Club heart testing programme and participate in the BVA/KC Hip Dysplasia Scheme. DNA testing helps prevent hereditary diseases by guiding responsible breeding decisions.Preventive Healthcare Schedule
Puppies receive vaccinations at 10-12 weeks with boosters following. Regular veterinary check-ups include parasite prevention, dental health, and monitoring for breed-specific conditions. Timing of neutering is carefully considered due to osteosarcoma risks.Insurance Considerations
Because of high treatment costs linked to heart disease, joint problems, and emergency surgeries, comprehensive insurance covering hereditary conditions is recommended. Insurance claims frequently involve these concerns reflecting the breed’s health profile.Caring for the Great Dane
Caring for a Great Dane means balancing exercise, nutrition, grooming, and health tailored to their large size and unique lifespan. Their short coat requires regular grooming to prevent skin problems such as flea allergic dermatitis. Adequate living space is crucial to allow them freedom for movement and stretching to maintain muscular and joint health.
Daily Care Routine
A typical day includes two walks for physical activity balanced with rest periods to suit their calm but active character. Ensuring a safe, puppy-proof environment with secure gardens where they can explore is important. Providing mental stimulation through toys and interactive play prevents boredom-led behavioural issues.
Living Environment Needs
Great Danes thrive in homes with large gardens securely fenced to prevent escape and provide safe roaming. Indoors, they benefit from spacious resting places with comfortable bedding, and care providers should regulate internal temperature, protecting them from extremes of heat and cold due to their size and coat type.Seasonal Care Adjustments
During summer, abundant fresh water and shaded outdoor spots prevent overheating. Winter months require warm sleeping arrangements and joint care to limit stiffness. Seasonal coat shedding demands increased grooming frequency primarily in spring and autumn.Senior Care Adaptations
Older dogs benefit from adapted diets lower in calories, gentle and shortened exercise, and orthopedic supports like supportive beds. Ongoing vet visits focus on managing arthritis, sensory decline, and weight control to maintain quality of life in their senior years.Grooming of the Great Dane
Coat Maintenance Schedule
Great Danes possess a short and sleek coat that is relatively low maintenance. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry or soft bristle brush helps control shedding and distribute natural oils, especially during seasonal changes in spring and autumn when shedding increases.Professional Grooming Requirements
Due to the simplicity of their coat, professional grooming is not typically required unless specific skin issues develop. Owners must regularly maintain nail clipping and ear cleaning to prevent infections, tasks usually managed at home.Home Grooming Techniques
Bathing is recommended occasionally using gentle dog shampoos, while nails should be trimmed consistently with quality clippers. Weekly ear inspections help avoid debris build-up and irritation, and tooth brushing with canine toothpaste supports dental hygiene.Common Grooming Challenges
Great Danes are susceptible to flea allergic dermatitis, so routine flea control is critical. Seasonal shedding and dandruff can occur, necessitating prompt skin care to maintain coat comfort and appearance.Exercise of the Great Dane
Daily Exercise Requirements
Great Danes need approximately two hours of daily exercise to support joint health, maintain muscular tone, and fulfil mental stimulation needs. This includes controlled walks, playtime, and chances for off-lead running within secure fenced areas. Puppy exercise must be carefully moderated to prevent joint strain and injury.Suitable Activities
They enjoy long walks, swimming, and interactive games combining physical and mental challenges. Activities such as obedience training and scent work provide excellent engagement for mental enrichment and social interaction.Exercise Restrictions
Puppies require gentle, controlled exercise avoiding excessive running, jumping, or hard surface activity. Extreme weather conditions dictate reductions in outdoor activity to guard against heat stroke or hypothermia due to their size and coat.Mental Stimulation Ideas
Puzzle toys, obedience training games, and socialising with other dogs provide necessary mental challenges that help prevent boredom and alleviate destructive behaviours linked to pent-up energy.Feeding of the Great Dane
Nutritional Requirements
Great Danes require diets formulated specifically for large breeds with balanced protein (14-21%), fat (under 10%), calcium (0.5-0.8%), and phosphorus (0.4-0.7%) levels to support healthy growth and maintain joint function. Careful attention is needed during puppyhood to avoid excessive calcium and calories which could compromise bone development.Feeding Schedule Guidelines
Puppies start with 3-4 meals daily, gradually reducing to two meals by adulthood. Portion sizes initially range from about 309g to 394g at 2 months, increasing to 600-750g near 7-9 months depending on the dog's build. Adults require 634-877g per day adjusted for weight and activity level.Special Dietary Considerations
To mitigate the risk of bloat, feeding should be timed away from exercise periods and food bowls raised to reduce neck strain. Avoid foods with artificial additives or high cereal content that might provoke allergic reactions.Weight Management
Maintaining an ideal body condition score is critical to prevent obesity, which can increase risk for joint and heart issues. Regular weighing and adjusting food and exercise accordingly support longevity and well-being.Great Dane price
Purchasing a well-bred, Kennel Club registered Great Dane puppy on Pets4Homes generally ranges from £800 to £1,500. Prices vary based on breeder reputation, pedigree quality, coat colour, and geographical location throughout the UK. Show-quality puppies command higher fees, with peak pricing seen in late winter and spring when demand surges.
Initial setup costs include essentials such as durable bedding, a large crate, grooming tools, and feeding accessories, estimated at £250 to £400. Monthly expenses average between £120 and £180, covering premium giant breed food (£50-£60), routine grooming, veterinary check-ups, and health care. Insurance premiums range widely, with basic policies costing around £66 per month in some regions, rising to £115 for comprehensive lifetime coverage.
Owners should budget for potential health-related costs due to breed predispositions, particularly emergencies linked to bloat or heart conditions, which can significantly impact veterinary bills. With committed care, this breed rewards owners with affectionate companionship and noble presence.
Buying advice
When looking to acquire a Great Dane, prioritising ethical breeders is essential to ensure the health and welfare of the puppies. Avoid online scams offering unrealistically low prices or puppy sales via deposits without prior visits.
Finding Ethical Breeders
Seek breeders registered with the Kennel Club who adhere to guidelines limiting maternal litters and conducting comprehensive health screenings including DNA profiling. Inquire about compliance with breeding protocols that address coat colour and genetic health risks.
Health Testing Verification
Demand documented proof of hip scores through the BVA/KC Hip Dysplasia Scheme and results from Breed Club heart testing programmes for dilated cardiomyopathy. Genetic testing related to coat colour inheritance is also advisable.
Puppy Selection Process
Assess puppies’ temperament for social, confident, and healthy behaviours. Look for signs of early socialisation by breeders to improve future behaviour and adaptability. Verify hip and heart health certifications and vaccination history.
Contract and Guarantee Review
Carefully scrutinise contracts for health guarantees, return policies, and breeder support commitments. Beware vague agreements or unwillingness to provide full paperwork.
Rescue and Adoption Options
Consider breed-specific rescue groups to adopt adult Great Danes in need of new homes, supporting animal welfare and providing another avenue aside from purchasing puppies.
