Explore the Great Dane: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

Discover the Great Dane, a breed celebrated for its friendly, affectionate, and curious nature. Recognized as a large dog, Great Danes have their origins in Germany, where they were initially bred for hunting and guarding starting in the 16th century.

In this post, we share insights from nearly 10,000 Sniffspot users, offering practical advice for new and prospective Great Dane owners. Whether you’re considering adopting or rescuing a Great Dane or already have one, you'll find valuable tips on how to care for and enjoy life with a friendly Great Dane.

As Sniffspot user Stephanie says, "The most vocal dog I've ever had. She will have whole conversations with people!"

Source: Sniffspot Community Breed Survey 2024

Great Dane Quick Characteristics

• Breed Type: Working
• Size: Large
• Life Expectancy: 7 to 10 years
• Healthy Weight Range: 110 to 175 lbs
• Height Range: 28 to 34 inches
• Temperament: Friendly, Affectionate, Curious
• Coat Type: Short
• Color: Fawn, Brindle, Black, Blue, Harlequin, Mantle

About the Great Dane

According to nearly 10,000 Sniffspot community users who shared real-world data about their Great Danes, we learned that these dogs are friendly and social. The Great Dane is also known to be very social with children and other pets.

When living with a Dane, 86% of our owners indicated that a large house with a fenced yard is ideal. Additionally, 38% of owners found that an apartment or condominium with regular walks is also acceptable. This dog is moderately trainable, often benefiting from a professional trainer, and owners say that the Great Dane learns best with positive reinforcement, consistent routines, and training aids.

In terms of exercise, 46% of Sniffspot owners say their Great Dane benefits from moderate exercise every day, including 1-2 hours of activity each day, such as walks and active play sessions. The Sniffspot Dane community does not recommend this breed for first-time owners.

History and Origin of the Great Dane

The Great Dane, known as the "Apollo of dogs," has a majestic presence and a gentle temperament. Originating in the 16th century in Germany, it was developed from Mastiff-type dogs for hunting and guarding. Despite its French name, "Grand Danois," the breed is German and was officially recognized in 1876.

In the 19th century, the breed evolved through crossbreeding with Greyhounds, leading to a more refined appearance. American breeders continued to enhance the breed's structure and temperament, transforming it from a fierce hunter into a gentle giant.

Today, the Great Dane is admired for its strength and elegance, with a smooth, majestic gait and a well-balanced appearance. Although the breed faces health challenges that limit its lifespan, dedicated breeders are working to improve its longevity and address common health issues.

Leonides Ruvalcabar on Unsplash

Great Dane Traits and Characteristics

• Temperament: Friendly, Affectionate, Curious
• Energy Level: Moderate
• Trainability: Moderately trainable - Learns commands with consistent training and practice.
• Grooming Needs: Low maintenance - Requires minimal grooming, such as occasional brushing and baths.
• Good with Kids: Very friendly and social with children
• Good with Other Pets: Very friendly with other pets

What to Expect as a Great Dane Dog Owner

Source: Sniffspot Community Breed Research 2024

Grooming Needs

Great Danes require low-maintenance grooming. This means Great Dane owners should expect minimal grooming, such as occasional brushing and baths. Great Danes have a short coat, which is ideal for protection against the elements and is considered to shed moderately. To keep your Great Dane's coat healthy and up to breed standards, include brushing in their routine and brush weekly to manage shedding and keep the coat shiny. Among common breeds in the working group, the grooming needs for Great Danes are low maintenance.

Exercise Needs

Great Danes require moderate activity each day. Though one of the most popular dog breeds, Danes are considered very athletic and high-energy. They thrive with 1-2 hours of activity each day, including walks and active play sessions. Owners of Danes report that their dogs especially enjoy tug-of-war, playing with squeaky toys, and hiking.

When large breeds like Danes don't get sufficient exercise, they are more likely to exhibit undesirable behaviors such as separation anxiety, overexcitement, and stubbornness. They need consistent training, mental stimulation, and regular moderate exercise to avoid excess energy.

Diet and Nutrition

What should you feed your Great Dane to keep them healthy? As a moderate-energy breed, their diet is important. A reported 65% of our community feeds their Dane commercial dry kibble. With moderate exercise, Danes should eat 6 to 10 cups of vet-recommended food to maintain a healthy weight of around 110 to 175 lbs. However, your Great Dane's ideal weight and food intake will depend on your pet's sex, activity level, and age.

Great Dane Health Concerns

The Great Dane breed is most prone to digestive issues (e.g., bloating, sensitive stomach) and joint problems (e.g., hip dysplasia, arthritis). A reported 55% of our Great Dane owners have reported digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and lack of appetite. The risk for these challenges increases as Danes age.

Similarly, 52% reported joint problems such as arthritis, elbow dysplasia, degenerative issues, and osteosarcoma. Additionally, 38% of Great Dane owners claim their dog struggles with skin conditions such as allergies, yeast infections, impetigo, ringworm, alopecia, and folliculitis — common health concerns for Danes. If you're worried about any of these health issues, consult your Dane's vet.

How Friendly Are Great Danes?

Another important factor to consider when adopting a Dane is whether they fit with your current family. How friendly are Great Danes compared to other large-sized breeds?

Source: Sniffspot Community Breed Survey 2024

With moderate training, you can cultivate your Dane's natural friendliness and affection. Introducing your pet to positive reinforcement (treats, praise, rewards) and consistent daily training routines early on helps them avoid undesirable behaviors such as separation anxiety, overexcitement, and stubbornness. Here’s what our community of Great Dane owners say about their pets’ friendliness:

• He’s a giant friendly doofus who loves being with his people. (Brian)
• Danes are incredibly sweet giants. They just want to be held, and I think it’s the most endearing thing. Our Dane always comes to our face if we’re crying to provide comfort. (Ikea)
• So gentle - this dog will love you more than anything. (Taylor)

How to Train Your Great Dane

Whether you're adopting a Dane puppy or an adult Great Dane, training is a significant part of owning this large-sized breed. Without proper training, your Dane is more likely to display undesirable behaviors such as separation anxiety, overexcitement, and stubbornness. Providing stimulating activities is a great first step, but this needs to be paired with the right training for your Dane.

As a working breed, Great Danes benefit from praise and positive reinforcement. Here's what our Dane community recommends based on their experience with their own dogs:

• Positive Reinforcement (86%): This includes treats, praise, rewards, and so on for positive behavior.
• Consistent Routines (53%): A consistent training routine allows your pet to become comfortable with expectations.
• Training Aids (47%): Dog training aids like martingale collars, walking harnesses, and no-pull attachments.

As dogs bred for hunting and guarding, Danes are considered moderately trainable and often benefit from a professional trainer.

What Do Owners Love About Great Danes?

We asked Sniffspot Dane owners what they love most about their Great Dane pups, and here's what they had to say:

• Danes are incredibly sweet giants. They just want to be held, and I think it’s the most endearing thing. Our Dane always comes to our face if we’re crying to provide comfort. (Ikea)
• Their easygoing disposition. Though I believe all dogs are individuals and their personalities are unique to them, not necessarily due to their breed. (Andrea)
• I love how loyal they are, their goofy personalities, and their size. I love big dogs. (TF)

What Are the Biggest Challenges for Great Dane Owners?

Similarly, Dane owners shared some of the biggest challenges of living with their Great Dane:

• Stomach bloat and they aren't very coordinated for their size. (Stephanie)
• He is just a large dog, and his environment needs to accommodate his size. (Lisa)
• Medical issues. That’s the exact reason I don’t recommend them for first-time owners. Unless you have both the financial and mental capacity to visit the vet frequently, Danes may not be the right choice for you. (Ikea)

Is a Great Dane Right for a First-Time Dog Owner?

Source: Sniffspot 2024 Community Dog Breed Survey

According to 60% of our Sniffspot community, Great Danes are not ideal for first-time dog owners. This is due to their friendly nature and moderate exercise needs. Great Dane owners say it best:

• I love how loyal they are, their goofy personalities, and their size. I love big dogs. (TF)
• Great Danes are so sweet and loving, truly a gentle giant! They are happy just being near their people. (Kendall)
• They are big but will adjust to any kind of living situation, and they are very loyal. (IP)

Advice for Great Dane Owners

Luckily, our Sniffspot community is full of experienced and knowledgeable Dane owners. These Great Dane breed owners share the most essential tips and advice for prospective or new dog owners:

Be Patient with Your Training

• Lots of patience is needed, as they are pretty much puppies until they are 4 years old. (Stephanie)
• Make sure you're prepared for one of the largest dog breeds. (Taylor)

Prepare for Their Size

• Start training early, as they will grow very big. Establish good habits while they are small. Socialize with similarly sized dogs until they are appropriately trained. Small dogs can be fearful, which can cause distress for your Dane. (Joe)
• Anything you wouldn’t want a 130-160 lb dog to do, don’t let them do it as puppies. (Jennifer)

Take Preventative Steps for Potential Health Challenges

• Be prepared to make your house adaptable as they age due to joint problems, such as using a raised feeder and providing steps for vehicles or beds. (Emily)
• Research both the breed itself and personal experiences from Dane owners. Ensure you are financially prepared to support the breed's health needs. (JH)

Expect Others to Be Cautious Around Your Great Dane

• Their size is often intimidating to other dogs and people. (Bri)
• Be ready for people to stop and ask many questions about their food intake, lifespan, and poop size. Just remember that they are worth it. I believe in providing a quality life and focusing on their well-being. (Jordan)

Frequently Asked Questions about the Great Dane

What is the average lifespan of a Great Dane?

The average lifespan of a Great Dane is typically between 7 to 10 years.

What is the size of a Great Dane?

An adult Great Dane weighs between 110 to 175 lbs and stands between 28 to 34 inches tall.

How much grooming does a Great Dane need?

Great Danes require low-maintenance grooming. Regular grooming helps keep their coat healthy and manageable. Great Danes have a short coat that is well-suited for protection against the elements. They are considered moderate shedders.

To maintain your Great Dane's coat, it’s important to brush them weekly to manage shedding and keep the coat shiny. Among working breeds, Great Dane grooming is categorized as relatively easy.

How much exercise do Great Danes need?

Great Danes require moderate activity each day. Though one of the most popular dog breeds, Danes are classified as moderately athletic and somewhat high-energy.

Danes are excellent companions and thrive with between 1-2 hours of activity each day, including walks and active play sessions. Owners of Danes note that their dogs particularly enjoy tug-of-war, playing with squeaky toys, and hiking.

If large breeds like Danes don’t receive enough exercise, they may develop unwanted behaviors. These dogs need ongoing training, mental stimulation, and consistent exercise to channel their energy effectively.

How friendly are Great Danes with children?

According to our data, Great Danes are very friendly and social with children.

How well do Great Danes get along with other pets?

Our research indicates that Great Danes are very friendly with other pets.

What should you feed your Great Dane to keep him healthy?

As a moderate energy breed, the diet of your Dane is crucial. A significant 65% of our community feed their Dane commercial dry kibble.

For optimal health, Danes should consume 6 to 10 cups of vet-recommended food to maintain a healthy weight around 110 to 175 lbs. The exact amount and type of food will depend on your Great Dane's sex, activity level, and age.

What health concerns are common for Great Danes?

The Great Dane breed is particularly prone to digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and lack of appetite, as well as joint problems like arthritis, elbow dysplasia, degenerative issues, and osteosarcoma.

Our data shows that 55% of Great Dane owners reported digestive issues, while 52% reported joint problems. Additionally, 38% of Great Dane owners indicated their dog struggles with skin conditions like allergies, yeast infections, impetigo, ringworm, alopecia, and folliculitis. If you have concerns about any of these health issues, consult your Dane’s veterinarian.

Resources for Great Dane Owners

Whether you're a current Great Dane owner or considering adopting a Dane, Sniffspot is here to lend a helping hand. Here are some of the most relevant resources for Great Dane owners:

• Most Popular Great Dane Names
• Great Dane Animal Rescues
• Great Dane Club of America

Sources:

• Great Dane History. (American Kennel Club)
• Great Dane Dog Breed - Facts and Personality Traits. (Hills Pet Nutrition)