Great Dane
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- Dog Breed Group
- Working Dogs
- Origin of Breed
- Germany to hunt wild boar.
- Life Expectancy
- 7 to 10 years
- Color
- Fawn, black, blue, brindle, harlequin
- Coat
- Short dense coat.
- Exercise Needs
- Moderate energy level. Needs plenty of exercise, at the very least a long daily walk or run. Puppies should never be given stren
- Temperament
- The Dane likes being with people and, if left alone for any length of time, in its solitude may rearrange the house somewhat. Ge
- Good with Children
- Excellent with other pets and children. Supervision is required around small children as it may inadvertently step on them or kn
- Grooming Needs
- Moderate shedder. Requires weekly brushing.
- Average Size - Male (in)
- > 30
- Average Size - Female (in)
- > 28
- Average Weight - Male (lbs)
- > 100
- Average Weight - Female (lbs)
- > 100
- Health Issues
- Has a tendency to bloat. It is particularly susceptible to hip dysplasia, some genetic heart ailments, and cancer.v
- Living Conditions
- Can adjust well to both city and country living. Needs a lot of space.
Breed Description
The Great Dane is a breed of working dog developed at least 400 years ago in Germany, where it was used for boar hunting. The Great Dane is typically a swift, alert dog noted for courage, friendliness, and dependability. It has a massive, square-jawed head, and body lines that give it an elegant appearance. Its short coat is black, golden brown, brindle, blue-gray, or white with black patches. It is the tallest of the working breeds, standing 28 to 32 inches tall. Its name was derived from one of its French names, Grand Danois (Big Danish), although there is no known reason to associate Denmark with the history or origin of the breed. In its native Germany it is known as the Deutsche Dogge (German Mastiff). This breed has existed in Britain for many centuries and is said to be descended from the Molosus hounds of ancient Rome. It was used as a wild boar hunter, companion and bodyguard in the Middle Ages and has also played a part in bull-baiting.
Breed Infobits
The cartoon character Scooby Doo portrays the Great Dane as a large lovable dog that is not always as smart as it should be.
Great Danes make very effective watch-dogs, but their usually friendly nature towards people undermines their use as guard dogs.
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