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Great Dane

Meet Great Dane

The Great Dane is an ancient breed with roots tracing back to Germany, where it was originally bred as a hunting and guardian dog. This breed of domestic dog is popularly known for its giant size. A Great Dane called Zeus is the record holder for the tallest dog ever.

About Great Dane

These massive dogs were used to hunt wild boars and protect estates due to their strength and imposing presence. Over time, the Great Dane became more of a companion breed, known for its gentle and affectionate temperament despite its large size. 

Breed History

Great Dane has its origin from Germany although some are of the belief that this dog breed has ancient origins. It is assumed that this breed came about after crossing the English Mastiff and the Irish Wolfhound which explains its athletic and distinct body.

The Great Dane was originally developed in Germany as a boar hunter; as time went on, it was no longer considered as a hunting dog and became well known as a watchdog and companion. While breeding this dog, the aim was to make it less aggressive hence, its gentle disposition.

Temperament

Great Dane is a loyal and intelligent dog with a warm temperament and is often called a gentle giant; it possesses a joyful spirit and provides loving companionship.

It is one of the most even-tempered dog breeds with a lovable personality; it also has a reputation for being a courageous dog, this can be linked back to its history as a hunter back in Germany and England.

Great Dane also possesses a playful disposition; it is unaware of its size and wouldn’t mind being a lap dog if given the chance.

Environment

This unique breed enjoys having humans in its company and craves attention. It is happiest in an environment where it is surrounded by its human family and if it doesn’t get this often, it might develop some behavioral issues later on.

Because of its playful disposition, it thrives well in a household with children as it bonds very well with the kids as long as the child is big enough to handle it.

This giant dog is best suited for large spaces in order to prevent an accident due to its size; while apartment living is possible for this dog, it is recommended to keep it in a large yard.

Exercise

Great Dane needs a long walk at least once every day; it also helps if it has a large yard to play in. For the adult Great Dane, it requires an average of 30 to 60 minutes of exercise daily depending on its age and level of activity.

At the puppy and adolescent age, it requires about 90 minutes of exercise daily. At every level of the Great Dane’s life, it needs exercise proportional to its age.

Grooming

This dog requires regular bathing and grooming. Depending on its activity level, it can be bathed weekly and up to every six weeks. It has a smooth coat and regular bathing is very necessary in order to maintain its skin and coat and reduce shedding.

Before bathing the dog, it is recommended to remove loose coats and loosen dirt and debris with a high-velocity dryer. After bathing, it is recommended to use a hydrating spray in order to maintain hydration.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Great Dane

Great Danes are one of the largest dog breeds, typically weighing between 110 to 175 pounds and standing 28 to 34 inches tall at the shoulder.

Yes, Great Danes are gentle and affectionate with children. However, due to their size, supervision is recommended to prevent accidental knocking over.

While they need regular exercise, they do not require excessive physical activity. Daily walks and playtime are sufficient to keep them healthy.

Yes. Great Dane is an ideal family pet regardless of its size, it is moderately playful and affectionate which makes it suitable for children.

The Great Dane sheds all year round. However, regular baths and blowouts can help accelerate their shedding process.

No. Dane requires minimal grooming, its smooth and short hair requires routine baths to minimize shedding and maintain its coat.

No. This particular dog breed thrives in an environment where it has company. When left alone for too long and not given attention over a period of time, it might develop some behavioral issues.

On average, the Great Dane grows between 2 feet, 4 inches to 2 feet, 10 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 100 to 200 pounds.

For Great Dane, neutering is not recommended before it attains 12 months as this interferes with the closure of its growth plate.

Although the Great Dane is not the smartest dog breed, it is intelligent enough to learn how to be a responsible family member.

Unlike some other dog breeds that go into heat twice a year, the Great Dane typically goes into heat every 12 to 18 months.

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