Before You Adopt
Tips for finding the best cat or dog for you; plus: preparing for a puppy
Adopt a Great Dane
Picture: Kent and Donna Dannen
Family:
livestock dog, mastiff
Area of origin:
Germany
Original function:
guardian, hunting large game
Average size of male:
Ht: 30-32, Wt: 100-120
Average size of female:
Ht: 28-30, Wt: 100-120
Other names:
Deutsche dogge, German mastiff
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Energy
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Exercise
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Playfulness
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Affection
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Friendliness towards dogs
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Friendliness towards other pets
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Friendliness towards strangers
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Ease of training
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Watchdog ability
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Protection ability
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Grooming
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Cold tolerance
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Heat tolerance
Great Dane Dogs Available on Petfinder Right Now
See more adoptable Great Dane dogs available on Petfinder
Great Dane Dog Temperament
The Great Dane is gentle, loving, easygoing and sensitive. She is generally good with children (although her friendly overtures may overwhelm a small child) and usually friendly toward other dogs and pets. She is powerful but sensitive and responsive to training. She makes a pleasant, well-mannered family companion.
Great Dane Dog Care
The Great Dane needs daily moderate exercise. Her needs can be met with a good walk or romp. Despite her sturdy appearance, she is not suited to living outdoors and is best suited to dividing her time between indoors and out. Inside, she needs soft bedding and sufficient room to stretch out when sleeping. Some tend to drool. Coat care is minimal.
Great Dane Dog Health
Major concerns: gastric torsion, CHD, cardiomyopathy
Minor concerns: CVI (wobbler's syndrome), cataract, elbow dysplasia, osteosarcoma, OCD, HOD
Occasionally seen: glaucoma, vWD
Suggested tests: cardiac, elbow, hip, eye, blood
Life span: 6-8 years
Dogs Related to the Great Dane
Bernese Mountain Dog
Boxer
Bullmastiff
Doberman Pinscher
Great Dane
Great Pyrenees
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Komondor
Kuvasz
Mastiff
Shelters with Great Dane Dogs
Some animal welfare organizations with Great Danes ready for adoption:
