Great Dane

Description: The Great Dane is regal in appearance, having dignity, strength and elegance. They are the tallest of dog breeds with their great size and well-formed muscled body. Known as the friendly giant, they should show no unprovoked aggression. There are times they may have a stubborn streak, but early training will help alleviate this problem. The Great Dane makes a great family dog with their gentle, loyal and affectionate nature and patience with children. Great Danes adapt well to urban living if given plenty of space and exercise. Despite their large size, they should not be kenneled, but rather kept indoors as a member of the family. Great Danes truly love the comforts of home and you may find them sleeping in your big easy chair.

Other Names: Deutsche Dogge, German Mastiff

Type: Companion Dog

Height: 30 – 32 inches Weight: 100 – 120 lbs.

Colors: Brindle, fawn, blue, black or harlequin. Coat: Short, dense, sleek.

Temperament: Great Danes are alert, lively With Children: Excellent with children, but should be supervised. With Pets: Supervision is recommended. Special Skills: In the past, a hunting dog. Now a watch dog and family pet.

Watch-dog: Very High Guard-dog: Low

Care and Training: Great Danes require minimal grooming of their shorthaired coat. Comb, brush and dry shampoo when necessary. Keep nails trimmed. Great Danes need plenty of exercise, minimal is a long daily walk. Learning Rate: High intelligence, high trainability as long as with positive emphasis because they are sensitive.

Activity: Moderate Living Environment: Despite their great size they are a house dog, not a kennel dog. Large backyard with at least a six foot fence is needed for Great Danes.

Health Issues: Prone to bloat, hip dysplasia and some genetic heart problems.

Life Span: 7 – 10 years Litter Size: 5 – 12

Country of Origin: Germany History: There is evidence that suggests that there were similar dogs as the Great Dane in ancient Greek and Roman times. Originally developed from the boarhound they were used to hunt boar in the Middle Ages. The Germans are given credit to have developed the breed as it is known today. Some suggest they were crossed with the ancient Mastiff and Irish Wolfhound.

First Registered by the AKC: 1887 AKC Group: Working Class: Working Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 2), KC (GB), UKC