The Great Dane is one of the most eye-catching dog breeds in the world. With a huge frame, long legs, and a calm personality, this giant dog is often called the “Apollo of Dogs.” Many people expect Great Danes to be loud or hard to handle, but in real life, they are usually gentle giants—calm, affectionate, and very people-focused. In this guide, you will learn about the breed’s history, physical traits, temperament.
Quick Facts at a Glance
Before diving deeper, here is a simple snapshot of the Great Dane breed, based on data from the American Kennel Club and veterinary sources.
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Breed name: Great Dane (also called German Mastiff or Deutsche Dogge)
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Breed group: Working / giant breed
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Country of origin: Germany
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Minimum height: Male: 30 inches at the shoulder, Female: 28 inches at the shoulder
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Average weight: 110–175 pounds
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Life expectancy: Most Great Danes live 7–10 years
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Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, calm, moderately playful
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Nickname: “Gentle Giants” / “Apollo of Dogs”
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Coat types & colors: Fawn, brindle, black, blue, harlequin, mantle, white with black patches
History and Origin
The Great Dane’s history goes back hundreds of years. Despite the name, the dog breed did not come from Denmark. The term “Great Dane” comes from the French phrase “Grand Danois”, which later became the English translation used today. The dog breed was originally bred in Germany, where it was known as the Deutsche Dogge. Early versions of the dog were crosses between mastiff-type dogs and hunting hounds. Their job was to hunt wild boar, a dangerous animal that required strength, speed, and courage.
By the 18th century, German nobles began keeping these dogs on large estates. They were no longer only hunters but also prestigious guardians, protecting homes, carriages, and people. Over time, breeders focused less on aggression and more on a calm, stable temperament. In the late 1800s, the breed standard was formally recognized, and Great Danes spread across Europe and America. Today, the breed remains a symbol of elegance, power, and loyalty around the world
What a Great Dane Looks Like
The Great Dane is one of the tallest dog breeds on Earth. Some individuals even hold world records for height, including the famous Dane named Zeus, who stood over 44 inches tall on his hind legs
Physical Appearance
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Body: Muscular, sleek, and powerful
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Legs: Long and straight, built for speed and balance
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Head: Large with a flat skull and strong jaw
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Ears: Naturally floppy ears (cropped ears are optional and declining in popularity)
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Tail: Long and strong, often knocking things over indoors
Coat and Colors
The coat is short and smooth, making grooming easy. Common colors include: Fawn, Brindle, Blue, Black, Harlequin (white with black patches), Mantle
Because the coat is short, Great Danes shed lightly year-round. A rubber grooming mitt once or twice a week helps remove loose hair and keeps the coat healthy.
Great Dane Temperament
Despite their giant size, Great Danes are usually calm, friendly, and deeply attached to humans. Most are affectionate dogs that want to stay close to their family—sometimes a little too close.
According to the American Kennel Club, Great Danes are known for being:
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Gentle
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Patient with children
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Loyal and people-focused
Personality Traits
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Affectionate: They often lean, cuddle, or follow owners from room to room
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Moderately playful: Enjoy playtime but are not hyperactive
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Generally friendly: Usually welcoming toward strangers if well socialized
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Smart and eager: Respond well to positive training
Because of their size, early obedience training is essential. A friendly Great Dane that jumps or pulls can still cause injury by accident. Training a Great Dane puppy with patience and consistency helps them become calm, confident adults. When raised properly, Great Danes tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and even other animals. Supervised interactions are always important due to their strength and weight.
Common Health Issues in Great Danes
Because the Great Dane is a giant breed dog, its large body size and fast growth place extra stress on bones, joints, and internal organs. While many Great Danes live loving, happy lives, owners must be aware of several common health problems that affect this breed more often than smaller dogs.
Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (Bloat)
Bloat, also called gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), is the most dangerous health risk for Great Danes. It happens when the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood flow. This condition comes on suddenly and can be fatal without emergency surgery. Great Danes are one of the highest-risk breeds because of their deep chest shape. Signs include a swollen stomach, drooling, restlessness, and repeated attempts to vomit. Immediate veterinary care is critical.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a joint condition where the hip does not fit properly into the socket. It is common in large and giant breed dogs, including Great Danes. Over time, this can lead to pain, arthritis, trouble standing, or difficulty using the hind legs. Genetics, fast growth, and excess weight all increase risk. Responsible breeders screen for hip dysplasia to reduce its impact
Heart Disease (Dilated Cardiomyopathy)
Great Danes are prone to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a disease that weakens the heart muscle and reduces the heart’s ability to pump blood. This condition may not show clear signs at first but can lead to fatigue, coughing, fainting, or sudden collapse. Routine heart screening helps detect problems early.
Bone and Joint Injuries
Because Great Danes grow quickly and carry a lot of weight, their bones and joints are more likely to suffer injuries. Jumping, slippery floors, or too much exercise during puppyhood can cause long-term damage. Controlled exercise, proper nutrition, and joint support are especially important while a Great Dane puppy is developing.
Shorter Lifespan
Compared to many smaller dog breeds, Great Danes live shorter lives, typically around 7–10 years. Researchers believe this is linked to rapid growth, larger cell turnover, and higher rates of serious disease in giant breeds. While this reality is hard, good nutrition, regular vet care, and early health screening can improve quality of life.
Great Dane Daily Care
Daily care for a giant dog is about routine, prevention, and comfort. While grooming is simple, feeding, space, and habits require planning.
Feeding and Nutrition
Proper feeding is one of the most important parts of Great Dane daily care. Because Great Danes are a giant breed, they need high quality dog food that supports slow, healthy growth and strong bones. Overfeeding or choosing the wrong food can increase the risk of joint problems and stomach issues like bloat. Meals should be measured, balanced, and adjusted by age, weight, and activity level, especially for a growing Great Dane puppy.
Grooming and Hygiene
Great Danes have a short, sleek coat that is easy to maintain, but regular grooming still matters. Weekly brushing with a rubber grooming mitt helps remove loose hair and keeps the coat healthy. Owners should also clean floppy ears, trim nails, and watch for drool buildup around the mouth. Simple hygiene habits help prevent skin irritation, ear infections, and other small issues from becoming bigger problems.
Home Setup
Because of their huge size, Great Danes need a safe and comfortable home setup. Slippery floors can strain their legs and hips, while tight spaces can make movement difficult. A large, supportive dog bed, non-slip rugs, and enough room to stretch and rest help protect joints and reduce injury. Even in smaller homes, smart layout choices can make daily life easier for both the dog and the owner.
Great Dane Exercise Needs
Despite their huge size, Great Danes do not need extreme exercise. In fact, too much high-impact activity can damage growing bones.
How Much Exercise Is Enough?
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Adult Great Danes: 30–60 minutes per day
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Puppies: Short walks and gentle play only
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Avoid long runs or jumping during growth
Best Activities
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Leashed walking
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Light play in the yard
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Obedience training
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Mental stimulation (food puzzles, learning new things)
Exercise helps prevent anxiety, supports heart health, and strengthens the human–dog bond.
Finding a Responsible Breeder or Rescue
Because of many health issues, finding a responsible source matters more than looks or color.
Breeder Guidelines
A responsible breeder should:
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Provide health testing proof
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Allow you to meet the mother
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Offer lifetime return support
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Be involved in the Great Dane Club
Rescue and Adoption
Many Great Danes are surrendered due to size or cost. Adopting from a rescue or shelter can be rewarding and life-saving.
Is a Great Dane Right for You?
A Great Dane may be right if you:
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Have space inside your house
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Can manage a giant dog safely
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Are ready for training and obedience
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Can afford higher food and vet costs
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Want a loyal, affectionate family dog
They may not be ideal if:
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You travel often
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You want a low-cost pet
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You dislike drool or mess
Great Danes give a lot of love—but they require commitment.
FAQs
Why is the Great Dane called the heartbreak breed?
The nickname comes from their shorter lifespan (often 7–10 years) and serious health risks like bloat and heart disease. Owners often say losing them feels sudden and deeply emotional
Is a Great Dane a good house dog?
Yes. Despite their size, Great Danes are calm indoors and enjoy resting near family. With enough space and daily walks, they adapt well to house living.
Are Great Danes friendly or aggressive?
Great Danes are generally friendly, gentle, and affectionate. Aggression is uncommon when they are properly trained and socialized
Is a Great Dane bigger than a Cane Corso?
Great Danes are usually taller, while Cane Corsos are heavier and more muscular. Both are large dog breeds, but Great Danes often appear bigger due to height.
Conclusion
The Great Dane is a powerful yet gentle companion with a rich German history and a loving personality. Known as the Apollo of Dogs, this breed offers loyalty, affection, and elegance—but also demands preparation, space, and financial planning. For the right owner, Great Danes are unforgettable family members.
