A Complete Guide to Great Danes: History, Characteristics, and Care

Brief Overview of Great Danes

The Great Dane, often referred to as the “Apollo of Dogs,” is a giant breed known for its impressive stature and gentle nature. Originating from Germany, these majestic dogs were initially bred for hunting wild boar but have since evolved into loving and loyal companions. Despite their imposing size, Great Danes are known for their friendly disposition and make excellent family pets.

Why Great Danes Make a Great Pet

Great Danes are renowned for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them wonderful companions. They are known for being great with children, tolerant of other pets, and surprisingly adaptable to different living environments. Their loyalty and protective instincts, combined with a calm demeanor, make them excellent family guardians.

Great Dane Statistics:

Dog breed group: Working Group

Height: 28-34 inches (71-86 cm) at the shoulder

Weight: 100-200 pounds (45-90 kg)

Life Expectancy: 7-10 years

Great Dane Quick Facts:

Coat: Short and smooth

Club Recognition: AKC, UKC, FCI

Ideal Owner: Experienced dog owners, families, individuals with space

Energy Level/Exercise Needs: Moderate; requires regular exercise

Space Requirements: Needs ample space; not ideal for small apartments

Grooming Requirements: Low; regular brushing and occasional baths

Training: Intelligent and trainable but can be stubborn

Are they good family dogs? Yes, very good with children and families

Tendency to bark: Low to moderate

History and Origins

The origins of the Great Dane can be traced back to ancient times, with depictions of similar dogs found in Egyptian and Greek art. However, the breed as we know it today was developed in Germany in the 16th century. Bred to hunt wild boar, these dogs needed both strength and agility. Over time, the breed evolved from a fierce hunter to a noble companion.

Key Milestones in the Breed’s Development

16th Century: Development of the breed in Germany for hunting wild boar.
19th Century: Transition from hunting dog to companion animal.
1887: Recognition by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
20th Century: Continued refinement of breed standards and increased popularity as a family pet.

Physical Characteristics

Size and Weight:

Great Danes are one of the largest dog breeds. Males typically weigh between 140-175 pounds (64-79 kg), while females weigh between 110-140 pounds (50-64 kg).

Coat Type and Colors:

Their coat is short, smooth, and comes in a variety of colors including fawn, brindle, blue, black, harlequin, and mantle.

Facial Features:

Great Danes have a distinctively large head with a long, rectangular muzzle. Their eyes are medium-sized and dark, exuding a friendly and intelligent expression.

Unique Physical Traits:

Height: Their impressive height is their most notable feature.
Ears: Often cropped, although natural ears are becoming more common.
Tail: Long and tapering.

Temperament and Personality

Great Dane’s Temperament:

Great Danes are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They are loyal, patient, and tend to be very good with children.

Behavioral Characteristics:

Barking Tendency: Generally low; they bark to alert but are not overly vocal.
Suitability as a Family Pet: Excellent, very loving and protective.
Compatibility with Other Dogs: Generally good, but socialization is key.
Compatibility with Cats: Can be good if introduced properly.
Tolerance for Solitude: Moderate; they prefer company but can be left alone for reasonable periods.
Adaptability to Hot/Cold Weather: Moderate; they need protection from extreme temperatures.

Trainability

Ease of Training:

Great Danes are intelligent and eager to please but can be stubborn. Consistent, positive reinforcement training works best.

Intelligence:

Highly intelligent and quick learners.

Potential for Mouthiness:

Moderate; like most dogs, they explore with their mouths but are not excessively mouthy.

Prey Drive:

Moderate; initially bred to hunt but generally not aggressive.

Tendency to Bark or Howl:

Low to moderate; primarily bark to alert.

Wanderlust Potential:

Low to moderate; they are more likely to stay close to their family.

Health and Care

Common Health Issues

Hip Dysplasia: A common issue in large breeds, causing discomfort and mobility issues.
Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists, requiring immediate veterinary attention.
Heart Disease: Dilated cardiomyopathy is a common heart condition in Great Danes.
Bone and Joint Problems: Due to their size, they are prone to arthritis and other joint issues.

Grooming Requirements

Amount of Shedding: Moderate; regular brushing helps control shedding.
Drooling Potential: High; due to their large jowls, they can be quite drooly.
Ease of Grooming: Easy; their short coat requires minimal maintenance.

Exercise and Activity Needs

Energy Level: Moderate.
Intensity: Needs regular, moderate exercise.
Exercise Needs: Daily walks and playtime are essential.
Potential for Playfulness: High; they enjoy playtime but also appreciate lounging.

Nutrition and Diet Tips

Best Feeding Schedule: 2-3 meals per day to avoid bloat.
Potential for Weight Gain: High; monitor diet and exercise to prevent obesity.

Lifespan

Great Danes have a relatively short lifespan of 7-10 years, typical for large breeds.

Living with Great Danes

Finding a Great Dane Puppy:

Seek reputable breeders who prioritize health and temperament. Rescue organizations are also an option.

Preparing Your Home:

Ensure you have ample space, a comfortable sleeping area, and secure fencing.

Great Dane Behavior in the Home:

Generally calm and well-behaved indoors; they appreciate a cozy spot to relax.

Exercise and Playtime:

Daily exercise is important to maintain health and happiness. They enjoy walks, playtime, and even some structured activities like agility.

Training and Obedience:

Start training early with positive reinforcement techniques. Consistency is key.

Socialization:

Expose them to various people, environments, and other animals from a young age to ensure they are well-rounded adults.

Famous Great Dane Owners

Scooby-Doo: The most famous fictional Great Dane, beloved by many.
Jim Carrey: The actor owns a Great Dane named George.
Miley Cyrus: The singer has a Great Dane named Ziggy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do Great Danes need a lot of space?

Yes, due to their size, they require ample space to move around comfortably.

Are Great Danes good with children?

Absolutely, they are known for their gentle and patient nature with kids.

How much exercise does a Great Dane need?

They need regular, moderate exercise. Daily walks and playtime are sufficient.

Are Great Danes prone to any health issues?

Yes, they are prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, and heart disease among other conditions.

Additional Resources

Links to breed-specific clubs, organizations, and websites

Great Dane Club of America: www.gdca.org
American Kennel Club (AKC): www.akc.org
Great Dane Rescue, Inc.: www.greatdanerescueinc.com