Great Dane Puppies
Great Dane Breed Information
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Remember, the small puppy you are going to buy will one day grow up into an adult (and very big!) dog. Make sure the breed you want fits in with your lifestyle and household. Read on for more information about Great Danes. If you want to train your Great Dane puppies, read our Puppy Training or Puppy House Training sections. |
Summary
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Breed Group |
Working |
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Height |
28 - 34 in / 71 - 86 cm |
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Weight |
100 - 200 lbs / 45 - 90 kg |
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Life Expectancy |
8 - 10 years |
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Color |
Fawn, black, blue, brindle or harlequin |
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Exercise |
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Space |
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Grooming |
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Training |
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Exercise
Great Danes require a lot of exercise, preferably running of the leash in an open field. At the very least, they require long daily walks.
Space/Living Conditions
Although Great Danes can adapt to apartment life, they really need a large backyard. They are relatively inactive indoors.
Grooming
Due to their smooth short haired coat, Great Danes do not require a lot of grooming. Brush and bathe them only when necessary, but beware, bathing this monster can be difficult!. Take care to keep their nails trimmed. They are average shedders.
Training
Great Danes are highly intelligent and trainable. In fact, training is essential, especially training Great Dane puppies not to pull on their leash. You do not want a fully grown Great Dane pulling you all over the place!
Temperament
Great Danes are the gentle giants of the dog world. Although their massive size can be imposing, they are dignified, affectionate and kind. They love people and need to be around their family.
They are good with children and other pets. They are steady and loyal and are therefore excellent guard dogs, although they only become aggressive when the situation warrants it.
Health Problems
Hip Dysplasia, prone to bloat and heart problems.
Origin
Dogs very similar to Great Danes were thought to have lived in ancient Greece and Rome, with images of this dog found on Greek coins dating back to 36 BC.
In medieval times the Great Danes were admired for their hunting and fighting abilities, bringing down boars and bears. In Germany a process of selective breeding has begun which gave us the Great Dane as we know it today. Not a lot is known about the ancient breeding process, but it is thought that these dogs were crossed with Irish Wolfhounds and ancient Mastiffs.