Disposition
The Great Dane is gentle and docile yet makes a great watchdog because they are so loyal to their family. Although they look imposing, Great Danes are one of the best-natured dogs around, and they do very well with small children and are known for how affectionate they are toward kids. They also do well with other pets. The Great Dane requires consistent and committed leadership because of its size and needs to be taught good manners while still a puppy so he or she learns how to safely interact with people. For example, a Great Dane can easily knock over an unsuspecting person with one mere jump. That said, the Great Dane is actually a sweet, affectionate and truly gentle breed.
Exercise
The Great Dane can do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. It is relatively inactive indoors but does best with at least a large yard and should be exercised and taken on long walks daily.
Grooming
The Great Dane’s coat is smooth, short-haired and easy to groom. It is an average shedder but requires little grooming. Brush the coat weekly with a rubber dog mitt or bristle brush to keep the hair and skin healthy. During the spring and fall, the Great Dane will shed heavier so brush them more frequently to get rid of the extra loose hair.
Origin
The Great Dane, known as the “Apollo of all dogs”, is an ancient breed. Images of breeds resembling the Great Dane have appeared on Greek money dating back to 36 B.C., drawings on Egyptian monuments from around 3000 B.C., and the earliest writings of dogs that sound like Great Danes appear in Chinese literature around 1121 B.C.
No one sure how or why the Great Dane, which is a German breed, became associated with Denmark. German nobles used Danes to hunt wild boar and would later become famous as protectors of their estate and family. Besides being used as a hunter and guard dog, the Great Dane’s talents also include tracking, watchdog, and carting.
Clubs, Registries & Associations
(Based on breed recognition. See store for details on this particular puppy.)
- American Canine Association
- Continental Kennel Club
- Universal Kennel Club International
- American Kennel Club
- United All Breed Registry
- America’s Pet Registry, Inc.
- United Kennel Club
Additional Information
Group: Working Dog
Average Weight: 100-200 lbs.
Personality Traits: Sweet, playful, gentle
Country of Origin: Germany
Coat: Short
Check out the Great Dane puppies for sale we currently have in our stores. If there are none here, please contact us and we’ll be in touch.
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This article has been reviewed by Animal Kingdom’s expert team to ensure accuracy and reliable pet care guidance.
