Great Dane
The Good
- Excellent guard dog instincts
- Love children
- Get along well with other pets
- Strong and resilient
The Real
- Very large size
- Cannot live in outdoor kennels
- Require active walks and physical exercise
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Great Dane truly lives up to its nickname as the "Apollo of Dogs" - a magnificent giant that combines impressive stature with surprising gentleness. Standing as tall as 90 cm at the shoulder and weighing up to 90 kg, these dogs tower over most other breeds, yet they're known for their calm, friendly nature that makes them wonderful family companions.
Originally bred in Germany (not Denmark, despite the name!) for hunting wild boar and guarding estates, today's Great Danes have evolved into gentle giants who'd rather be your shadow than your protector - though their imposing size alone is usually enough to deter any unwanted visitors. Their short, sleek coat comes in several striking colours, with the distinctive black-and-white harlequin pattern being particularly eye-catching.
What makes Great Danes special is their unique combination of size and temperament. Despite their massive frame, they're known for being patient with children, adaptable to family life, and surprisingly sensitive to their owner's moods. They're intelligent dogs who learn quickly and respond well to positive training methods.
However, owning a Great Dane isn't a decision to take lightly. Their size means everything costs more - from food to medication to vet bills. They need space to stretch out comfortably, and their shorter lifespan of 7-10 years means you'll have less time with your gentle giant than you might with smaller breeds. But for families who can accommodate their needs, Great Danes offer unmatched loyalty and an incredibly rewarding companionship.
History
History
The Great Dane's history stretches back thousands of years, with dog-like ancestors appearing in ancient civilisations across Asia and the Middle East. These powerful molossoid dogs were prized by ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians, with some cultures valuing them so highly that the penalty for killing one exceeded that for harming a human.
The breed's development truly took off in Germany during the 1800s, where nobles used these powerful dogs for hunting dangerous wild boar and protecting their estates. German breeders refined the breed by combining various dog types - including the Tibetan Mastiff bloodlines that had travelled through Persia and India - to create the impressive, athletic dogs we know today.
Interestingly, the mystery of how a German breed came to be called "Great Dane" remains unsolved. In Germany, they're known as "Deutsche Dogge" (German Dog), and there's no historical connection to Denmark. The name likely comes from French naturalists who called them "Grand Danois" (Big Danish), possibly to distinguish them from smaller mastiff types.
By the late 1800s, German breeders had established the breed standard that largely remains today. The breed gained international recognition as German nobility showcased these magnificent dogs, and they eventually became symbols of strength and elegance. Famous historical figures like Bismarck championed the breed, helping establish Great Danes as Germany's national dog.
The breed's evolution from fierce boar hunter to gentle family companion reflects centuries of careful breeding that maintained their impressive stature while developing their famously calm temperament. Today's Great Danes retain their noble bearing and protective instincts but are far more suited to family life than their warrior ancestors.
Traits & Characteristics
Great Dane characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Great Danes face several health challenges that potential owners need to understand, particularly given their giant size and shorter lifespan. The most serious concern is gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), commonly called bloat, which is the leading cause of death in the breed. This life-threatening condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood supply and potentially causing death within hours.
Signs of bloat include unsuccessful attempts to vomit, a distended abdomen, restlessness, pacing, and excessive panting. If you notice these symptoms, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Many owners opt for preventive gastropexy surgery, often performed during spaying or neutering, which tacks the stomach to prevent twisting.
Like many giant breeds, Great Danes are prone to hip dysplasia, a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis. Reputable breeders screen their dogs for this condition. The breed is also susceptible to Wobbler syndrome, a neurological condition affecting the neck vertebrae that causes an unsteady gait and neck pain.
Heart problems, particularly dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), are common in Great Danes. This progressive disease weakens the heart muscle over time. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, blue gums, coughing, fatigue, and decreased appetite.
Australian owners should be particularly mindful of the breed's exercise needs versus joint health. Avoid strenuous exercise in puppies under 18 months, as their bones are still developing. The breed's large size also makes them prone to "happy tail syndrome" - injuries from enthusiastic tail wagging in confined spaces.
Regular veterinary check-ups, maintaining a healthy weight, and feeding appropriate nutrition are crucial for managing these health risks and maximising your Great Dane's quality of life.
Feeding a Great Dane properly is crucial for their health and development, and it's quite different from feeding smaller breeds. These giants need high-quality, large-breed specific dog food that's formulated to support their unique growth patterns and nutritional requirements.
Great Dane puppies should eat large-breed puppy food until they're 18 months old - never "all life stages" formulas, as these don't account for the specific calcium and phosphorus ratios needed for proper bone development in giant breeds. Overfeeding or encouraging rapid growth can lead to serious developmental problems like hip dysplasia and other orthopedic issues.
Adult Great Danes should be fed two or more smaller meals daily rather than one large meal, as this significantly reduces the risk of bloat. Use slow-feeder bowls to prevent gulping, and avoid elevated feeding bowls, which can actually increase bloat risk. Never exercise your Great Dane for 1-2 hours after meals.
The amount you'll feed depends on your dog's age, size, and activity level, but expect to go through significant amounts of food - and budget accordingly. Australian owners should factor in the higher costs of quality large-breed formulas when considering this breed.
Many Great Danes benefit from joint supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin, given their predisposition to joint issues. Always consult your vet before adding supplements.
Treats should never exceed 10% of daily calories, and be especially mindful of this with such a large dog. Avoid cooked bones, onions, garlic, grapes, chocolate, and other toxic foods. Fresh water should always be available, but monitor drinking around meal times to reduce bloat risk.
Great Dane grooming is surprisingly manageable given their size, though the sheer scale means even simple tasks take a bit longer. Their short, smooth coat doesn't require extensive maintenance, but regular care keeps them looking their best and helps you monitor their health.
Weekly brushing with a rubber grooming mitt or medium-bristle brush helps control shedding and distributes natural oils. While Great Danes don't shed excessively, their size means even moderate shedding can result in noticeable hair around your home - Australian owners will appreciate having a good vacuum cleaner ready!
Bathing is only needed occasionally unless your Great Dane gets particularly messy - which can happen during muddy Melbourne winters or dusty Perth summers. Use dog-specific shampoos and ensure the water temperature is comfortable (37-39°C). Given their size, many Australian owners find it easier to use professional grooming services or set up an outdoor washing station.
Nail trimming is essential and should be done regularly, as overgrown nails can cause discomfort and affect their gait. Their large nails require sturdy clippers, and many owners find professional grooming helpful for this task.
Clean their ears weekly with a veterinary-approved cleaner to prevent infections. Great Danes naturally have floppy ears, though some have cropped ears (a controversial practice opposed by many veterinary associations).
Eye care involves wiping away any discharge with damp cotton pads as needed. Check regularly for redness, cloudiness, or other changes.
Don't forget dental care - brush their teeth regularly with dog toothpaste to prevent dental disease. Given their size, dental issues can become expensive to treat, making prevention particularly important for Australian owners.
Great Danes are intelligent, eager-to-please dogs that respond beautifully to positive training methods, but their size makes early training absolutely essential. A poorly trained 90kg dog isn't just inconvenient - it's potentially dangerous. Start training and socialisation from puppyhood to ensure your gentle giant grows into a well-mannered family member.
These dogs are surprisingly sensitive and don't respond well to harsh corrections. Use positive reinforcement, treats, and praise to teach basic commands like sit, stay, come, and heel. Given their strength, loose-leash walking is particularly important - you don't want to be dragged down the street by an enthusiastic Great Dane!
Socialisation is crucial for preventing anxiety and fearfulness. Expose your puppy to various people, animals, sounds, and environments during their first four months. Puppy classes are excellent for this, and many Australian dog training schools offer large-breed specific classes that understand the unique needs of giant dogs.
Exercise needs are moderate but important. Adult Great Danes need two or three brisk walks daily, but avoid strenuous exercise until they're at least two years old to protect developing joints. They can make excellent hiking companions for adventures in places like the Blue Mountains or Grampians, but wait until they're fully mature.
In Australia's warmer climates, exercise during cooler parts of the day to prevent overheating. Many Great Danes enjoy dog sports like agility (modified for their size), obedience trials, and tracking events.
Remember that mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. These intelligent dogs need mental challenges to prevent boredom and destructive behaviours.
Who is an ideal owner?
Great Danes suit a specific type of owner who can accommodate their unique needs and appreciate their gentle giant nature. You'll need to be an active person who enjoys regular walks and outdoor activities, as these dogs require daily exercise despite their sometimes lazy appearance around the house.
Space is a major consideration - while Great Danes can adapt to apartment living with dedicated owners, they're much happier in homes with yards where they can stretch out comfortably. Australian suburban homes with secure fencing work well, though remember they can easily look over most standard fences!
Financially, you need to be prepared for significantly higher costs than smaller breeds. Everything from food to medications to vet bills costs more, and pet insurance is worth considering given their health predispositions. Australian owners should budget accordingly, as quality large-breed food and veterinary care for giant breeds can be expensive.
Great Danes are excellent for families with children, as they're naturally patient and gentle. They're also suitable for singles or couples who want a loyal, impressive companion. However, they're not ideal for elderly owners who might struggle with their size and strength, or for people who travel frequently, as these dogs form strong bonds and don't cope well with extended separation.
You'll need to be committed to training and socialisation from an early age - there's no room for a poorly behaved 90kg dog. Patient, consistent training is essential, and many Australian owners benefit from professional training classes.
Most importantly, you need to accept their shorter lifespan and be prepared for the emotional and financial commitment of caring for a giant breed dog.
Interesting facts about the Great Dane
Interesting Fact
The Great Dane holds the world record for tallest dog - Zeus stood 112 cm tall and over 2 metres on his hind legs
Interesting Fact
Despite their name, Great Danes have no connection to Denmark - they're a German breed known as "Deutsche Dogge" in their homeland
Interesting Fact
The cartoon character Scooby-Doo is a Great Dane, helping popularise the breed worldwide
Interesting Fact
Ancient Greeks built the first monument to a dog - a Great Dane - in Corinth to honour dogs who helped them win the Peloponnesian War
FAQ
Great Danes have a shorter lifespan than many breeds, typically living 7-10 years. Their giant size contributes to this shorter life expectancy, which is something potential owners need to consider when choosing this breed.
Great Danes do shed, but not as profusely as many other breeds. However, because of their large size, even moderate shedding can result in noticeable hair around your home. Weekly brushing helps manage this.
Great Danes typically reach 72-90 cm in height, making them one of the tallest dog breeds. Males are generally larger than females, and some exceptional individuals can grow even taller.
While possible with a very dedicated owner, Great Danes are better suited to homes with yards. They need space to stretch out comfortably, and their size can make apartment living challenging. If you're in an apartment, you'll need to commit to multiple daily walks and ensure adequate exercise.
Yes, Great Danes are excellent family dogs and are typically very patient with children when properly socialised. However, supervision is important due to their size - they can accidentally knock over small children during play.
Great Danes need moderate daily exercise - typically two to three walks per day. In Australia's warmer regions, exercise during cooler morning and evening hours to prevent overheating. They're not as high-energy as some breeds but still need regular activity.
Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus) is the number one killer of Great Danes. Australian owners should learn to recognise the signs and know where their nearest emergency vet is located, as this condition requires immediate treatment to save the dog's life.