| General Information |
| Group(s):
Working |
Height: over 28 inches for females; over 30 inches for males |
| Weight: generally 110 pounds and more |
Longevity: often not more than 7 years |
| Colors: brindle, fawn, blue, black, harlequin, mantle |
Coat type: short, smooth, flat |
| Recognized Registries: NCA, UKC, FCI and others |
| Overall Appearance: This is often the first dog thought of when speaking of the giant breeds. This ambling individual is typically intelligent if not graceful and powerful if not agile. With a strong Mastiff type head and expression and long powerful legs, smooth coat, the Great Dane creates an impression and presence of definitive dog-ness. Friendly and approachable, devoted and yet imposing if necessary. |
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| Personaility - Behavior - Training |
| Energy Level: moderate to low |
| General Nature: |
Ideally genial, friendly, responsive and attentive, easy going |
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with Children: generally very good but needs to be socialized properly as do the children must be well mannered and supervised |
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with other pets: generally very good but supervision is highly advised |
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with dogs: variable, supervision and socialization required |
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| Socialization requirements: moderate to high; this dog is too large and powerful to be allowed to become shy or anxious |
| Ideal home characteristics: One that appreciates all the challenges inherent in raising a well-trained, happy and mannered Great Dane. Exercise, training, socializing and supervision of various health needs due to the growth rate of a giant breed must be considered. |
| Temperament Notes: Easy going and confident when well socialized. Intelligent and laid back. |
| Training requirement: moderate, socialization and basic manners are minimal but acceptable |
| Trainer notes: The greatest challenge in working with the Great Dane is often one of finding the energy and motivation to achieve the desired response. The Great Dane is not lazy or lacking in stamina as much as easily bored (and naps are very appealing). As such, training sessions (even when initiating play sessions) should be kept very short and as age and maturity develop stamina, sessions can be extended. Even so, the best results will be from working with a fresh, enthusiastic dog and this may be for only 5 minutes at a time. |
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| Background Information |
| Year range of first recognition: Of ancient history perhaps dating back 2000-3000 BC with the Egyptians and Assyrians. |
| Country of Origin: Egypt, Assyria, Tibet, England and others potentially figure into its history |
| Original Function: Boar Hounds and companions |
| History: Probably descended from the Tibetan Mastiff and some sighthound (perhaps the Irish Wolfhound) of the age. Called the Grand Danois by the French naturalist, Comte de Buffon, the name stuck. |
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| Adoption Information |
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| Deviations from Standard: excessive skin or flews, incorrect coloration, overly refined |
| Health Notes: cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, wobblers, bloat, eye problems, HOD/Panosteitis |
| Health Testing: CERF, OFA for hips, cardiac issues and thyroid dysfunction |
| Questions to ask Breeder: http://www.digitaldog.com/breeder_questions.html - The Breeder Questions as listed here provided with explanations and answers you will want to be looking for!
- How long have you had Danes?
- How long have you been breeding Danes?
- What health issues have you observed in the breed?
- What documented health clearances do you get for your breeding stock?
- What titles do you seek for your breeding stock?
- What did you find complementary about this breeding pair?
- Do you intend to keep a puppy from this breeding?
- What do you consider to be your priorities in your breeding program?
- Do you have a written contract and puppy guarantee?
- At what age do you send your puppies to their homes?
- Do you microchip your puppies?
- Do you have any suggestions for socializing and training a Great Dane?
- What would you consider an ideal home for a puppy?
- What would you consider a good Great Dane temperament?
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| Web Sites: http://www.gdca.org/rescue.htm - Great Dane Club of America Rescue
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| Other Resources |
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