Origin and History

The Great Dane, originally known as the "Englische Dogge," is a German breed with a rich history tracing back to the Middle Ages. These dogs descended from hunting dogs used to hunt bears, wild boar, and deer, and they also served as guardian dogs for German nobility. By the 16th century, the German nobility had imported strong, long-legged dogs from England and Ireland, which were bred in their courts. The dogs were highly valued for their role in hunting and as Kammerhunde, or chamber dogs, protecting their lords at night. However, as hunting customs changed and firearms became more prevalent, the use of these dogs diminished, and they became rare, surviving only as pets or luxury items.

In 1878, a committee in Berlin changed the name from "Englische Dogge" to "Deutsche Dogge," which is the German name for the Great Dane. The breed was then known as a "German boarhound" in English-speaking countries. Due to geopolitical tensions, the dog's name was later changed to "Great Dane," a French translation, despite no connection to Denmark. The breed was associated with the Reichskanzler, Otto von Bismarck, and was sometimes referred to as the "Reichshund" or "Empire dog" in the late 19th century. The first Great Dane clubs were established in Germany in the late 19th century, with the first club, the Verein für Deutsch-Danische Doggen, founded in 1876.

Breed Characteristics

The Great Dane is a large mastiff-sighthound breed, known for its impressive size and regal appearance. Often called the "Apollo of dogs," the breed combines strength, elegance, and great size with a powerful, well-formed body. The Great Dane should be square in the ratio between length and height, with males standing at least 76 cm (30 in) at the shoulder and females at least 71 cm (28 in). The tallest living dog on record was a black Great Dane named Zeus, who stood 111.8 cm (44 in) at the shoulder before his death in 2014. The breed's weight can range from 45 to 90 kg (99 to 198 lbs), with males typically weighing more than females.

Great Danes have naturally floppy, triangular ears, which were once cropped to prevent injuries during hunts. Today, cropping is sometimes still done for traditional or cosmetic reasons, but it is banned or controlled in many European countries. The breed's coat is short and comes in a variety of colors, including fawn, brindle, black, harlequin, grey merle, and mantle. The color and pattern of the coat can influence the dog's appearance and the standards set by kennel clubs, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the United Kennel Club (UKC), which have specific breed standards for the Great Dane.

Temperament and Behavior

Great Danes are known for their friendly, gentle, confident, loyal, and affectionate temperament. Despite their imposing size, they are generally not unduly aggressive towards people or other animals. They are excellent with children and make great family pets, although their large size requires careful handling to prevent accidental injury.

These dogs are also intelligent and trainable, although their energy level is medium. They are not particularly active dogs and do not require excessive exercise. Their temperament is often described as "easygoing," making them suitable for a variety of living situations, from urban apartments to rural homes.

Health Considerations

Great Danes have a slow metabolism, resulting in less energy and food consumption per pound than smaller breeds. They are prone to health issues common to large breeds, including bloat (gastric dilatation volvulus), which is the greatest killer of the breed. Bloat occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood supply. Symptoms can include restlessness, pacing, drooling, and vomiting, and it requires immediate veterinary attention.

Other health concerns include dilated cardiomyopathy, many congenital heart diseases, and the potential for carrying the merle gene, which can lead to deafness, blindness, or other ocular issues. Great Danes can also develop wobbler disease, a condition affecting the vertebral column, which can be treated with surgery or may heal over time. Hip dysplasia is also a risk for this breed, and it can lead to lameness or arthritis.

Lifespan and Care

The average lifespan of a Great Dane is 7-10 years, which is shorter than the average for purebred dogs. This breed is susceptible to age-related conditions, such as arthritis and heart disease, which can further reduce their lifespan.

Their short coat requires minimal grooming, but they do shed moderately, so regular brushing can help manage this. Exercise should be moderate, as excessive activity can strain their large muscles and joints. They also require a spacious living environment to accommodate their large size and need for room to move around.

Buying a Great Dane

• Research the breed's history and temperament to ensure it fits your lifestyle.
• Be prepared for the cost of ownership, including food, grooming, and veterinary care. The annual cost of owning a Great Dane can range from $1,500 to $2,500, depending on factors such as location, diet, and healthcare.
• Look for a reputable breeder who can provide health clearances and a good temperament. Reputable breeders will have dogs with good pedigrees and will be able to provide documentation of health screenings and certifications.
• Consider the space and time required to care for a large dog, including exercise and grooming.
• Understand the breed's potential health issues and be prepared for the emotional and financial commitment required to care for a dog with these conditions.

Great Danes can be a wonderful addition to the right home, but they require responsible ownership and a commitment to their well-being.