All About The Great Dane

The Great Dane is a fantastic breed that is incredibly popular. They are gigantic dogs that are full of spirit and courage. They are extremely affectionate and loyal. Their greatest joy is to be around people.

Great Danes make excellent guard dogs, and are happy living in a house, as they are relatively inactive indoors. That being said, they still require plenty of exercise.

The gentle disposition of a Great Dane and its undying devotion, friendliness and love is celebrated among dog owners everywhere.

Historical Facts About The Great Dane

The Great Dane is recognized as one of the most distinguished and elegant of all the giant dog breeds. Historical evidence indicates that the breed originated from Irish Wolfhounds and old English Mastiffs. The Great Dane has existed for more than 400 years, serving as a Board Hound in Germany.

Great Danes were celebrated as super hunting dogs in the great houses of Germany and in the German Royal Courts. The popularity of the Dane soared, and during the 17th and 18th centuries, serious breeding plans for the dog went underway.

The Great Dane has had many different names, but it was finally given their official name “Great Dane” in Germany. In fact, in 1891 the Great Dane Club of Germany was established. The club adopted the official description of the breed (breed standard).

The Great Dane came to America shortly after, and has been loved ever since.

Great Dane Basics

The Great Dane is a giant among dogs. He grows an average of 30 – 34 inches, and can weigh anywhere from 120 – 200 pounds. Despite his size he is very gentle, devoted and loveable. He makes an excellent companion for both families and an individual.

Great Danes enjoy playing with children and are very patient with them. They are also friendly with other animals, but should be socialized with them as pups.
Moreover, keep in mind that male Great Danes can act aggressively towards other male dogs.

Danes are easy to groom and are moderate shedders. Comb or brush them every week to keep their coat shiny.

The Great Dane is part of the “Working” dog group, and it is in their nature to be watchdogs, and will protect and alert their owners when need be. Danes are courageous and brave, which is why throughout history they have made ideal guard dogs, hunting dogs and carting dogs.

Great Danes rarely bark, love to work, and are happiest when with their owners. This breed does not like to be left alone. Furthermore, while they need plenty of exercise (at least two 20 – 30 minute walks a day), they are surprisingly inactive indoors. Thus, a Dane will be content inside watching TV or outside on a long walk as long as they are with their owner.

Due to the fact that the Great Dane is an intelligent breed that loves to work, they are relatively easy to train, and are devoted to their master. However, to make the most of their training they should be enrolled in a proper obedience class at a young age.

One of the biggest concerns about owning a Great Dane is their size. Although they are relatively inactive indoors, they do not make good apartment dogs. What’s more is the Great Dane isn’t conscious of his size, and may attempt to sit in your lap. This can make them dangerous around small children, and is why the breed isn’t recommended for children under 8 or first time dog owners.

Finally, Great Danes do not have long lives, and live an average of seven years. This is because of the many health defects that are present in the breed, and because of its enormous size.

All in all, the Great Dane is a beautiful dog that makes an affectionate and devoted companion.