Dane, Gentle Giant, Deutsche Dogge, German Mastiff
Overview
This regal breed combines great size and power with elegance. It is square-proportioned and well-balanced. Its gait is strong and powerful with long, easy strides. These attributes are necessary in a dog required to overtake and then over-power relatively swift but formidable quarry. Its coat is short, thick and glossy. The Great Dane is most noteworthy for its majestic carriage and appearance — the "Apollo of Dogs."
The Great Dane is gentle, loving, easygoing and sensitive. It is generally good with children (although its friendly overtures may overwhelm a small child) and usually friendly toward other dogs and pets. It is powerful but sensitive and responsive to training. It makes a pleasant, well-mannered family companion.
| Size | Giant |
| Height | Male: 30-34 inches (76-86 cm)Female: 28-32 inches (71-81 cm) |
| Weight | Male: 120-200 pounds (54-90 kg)Female: 100-130 pounds (45-59 kg) |
| Lifespan | 7-10 years |
| Colors | Black Black & White Blue Brindle Fawn Harlequin Mantle Merle White |
| Origin | Germany |
| Classification | Purebred |
| Good Lapcat |
| Good In Apartments |
The Great Dane will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is relatively inactive indoors and does best with at least a large yard. |
| Good With Children |
Good with Kids: This is a suitable dog breed for kids. It is also shy toward other pets and very friendly toward strangers. |
| Good With Dogs |
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| Good With Cats |
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| Exercise Needs |
Like most dogs, Great Danes require daily walks to maintain their health. However, it is important not to over exercise this breed, particularly when young. Great Dane puppies grow very large, very fast, which puts them at risk of joint and bone problems. Because of a puppy's natural energy, Dane owners often take steps to minimize activity while the dog is still growing. |
| Trainability |
Moderately Easy Training: The Great Dane requires a dominant but not overly harsh trainer. It must be trained early not to pull on the leash, because it grows to a very large size. Obedience training when young is highly recommended for the Great Dane. |
| Affectionate |
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| Playfulness |
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| Grooming Requirements |
Low Maintenance: The Great Dane has a short, thick, smooth coat. It sheds moderately -- in other words, more than you might think -- but requires little grooming. |
| Shedding |
Moderate Shedding: In spring and fall, he will have a heavy shed, known as “blowing out” the coat and will need to be brushed more frequently during that time to get rid of all the loose hair. |
| Vocalization/Barking |
Occassional |
Great Dane Pictures
