The Great Dane hails from Germany, where people know it as the Deutsche Dogge or German Mastiff; however, not too many people know this. Also, it is the country’s national dog. They used this giant breed in the seventeenth century to hunt boar and deer.
The Great Dane is a large breed, some (28–30 in) high, and weighs anywhere from 110 to 175 pounds at a minimum in maturity. However, do not let the size fool you; it is a friendly and outgoing dog. This dog is ready to go anywhere and do anything with its owners, and it possesses an elegant build. The head gives the impression of great length, and the strength of the jaw and the wide-open nostrils give a rounded look to the nose. The short, thick, sleek-looking coat comes in brindle, fawn, blue, black, and Harlequin, a pure white ground with all black or all blue patches.
Great Dane Breed Facts
| Energy level |  | Watchdog ability |  |
| Exercise requirements | | Protection ability |  |
| Playfulness | | Grooming requirements |  |
| Affection level | | Cold tolerance | |
| Friendliness toward dogs | | Heat tolerance | |
| Friendliness toward other pets | | Friendliness toward strangers | |
| Ease of training | |
Temperament: The Great Dane is a spirited, courageous dog, and owners love its sensitive and gentle nature. This dog possesses a strong and protective instinct, which makes for an outstanding watchdog. Because of its enormous size, early and consistent training and socialization are important. Great Danes mature slower than most breeds; Fortunately, they’re easy to housebreak. For instance, Dane puppies usually reach adult size by 15 months of age; however, they may not reach mental and emotional maturity until 3. When they reach maturity, these dogs are adaptable, reliable, sociable, affectionate, and portray good house manners. The Great Dane desires human companionship but may not get along well with other pets.
Grooming: This dog is low maintenance and only requires a weekly brushing
Activity level: Modest. Do not expose Great Dane puppies to strenuous exercise
Color: Danes come in a variety of colors including brindle, fawn, with a black mask, blue, black, harlequin (white with patches of black), and mantle (black with white markings).
Coat: The Great Danes coat is short, thick, glossy, and smooth
Size: Males–at least 30 inches, 140–175 pounds; females—28 inches; 110–140 pounds
Group: we recognize The Great Dane as a member of the AKC and UK Working Group
Life expectancy: 7–10 years
These dogs are utterly large and strong and can be expensive to take care of. If you’re still ready to commit a Great Dane, then you should be ready for a large, energetic puppy. Therefore, obedience training is important. Also, Dane puppies can be very destructive to landscaping. We recommend a securely fenced yard; at least 6-foot is ideal. Beware of unusual colors such as white, merle fawnequin, or merlequin. Buy from a reputable breeder or consider a rescue dog.
