Great Danes Breed Information - Before bringing a Great Dane into your life it's important that you research the breed so you can see whether a Great Dane is suited to your:
A) Energy Levels
B) Commitment to training & health
C) Budget
Great Danes are also know as: Apollo, Danish Gallant, Deutsche Dogge, Boarhound, Grand Danois or German Mastiff - they are known for their giant size.
The breed is commonly referred to as the "Apollo of all breeds." The Great Dane is one of the world's tallest dog breeds, with only the Irish Wolfhound being taller on average.
The Great Dane should be very muscular, strongly though elegantly built, with look of dash and daring, of being ready to go anywhere and do anything. Head and neck carried high, tail in line with back, or slightly upwards, but never curled over hindquarters.
The below are breed standard height& weights for Great Danes.
Height:
Adult Dogs 76 cm's (30 ins) over eighteen months
Adult Bitches 71 cm's (28 ins) over eighteen months
Weight:
Minimum Adult Dogs 54 kg (120 lbs) over eighteen months
Adult Bitches 46 kg (100 lbs) over eighteen months
Coat colors
There are six show-acceptable coat colors for Great Danes:
- Fawn : The color is yellow gold with a black mask . Black should appear on the eye rims and eyebrows, and may appear on the ears.
- Brindle : The color is fawn and black in a chevron stripe pattern. Often also they are referred to as having a tiger-stripe pattern.
- Blue : The color is a pure steel blue. White markings at the chest and toes are not desirable and considered faults.
- Black : The color is a glossy black. White markings at the chest and toes are not desirable and considered faults.
- Harlequin : The base color is pure white with black torn patches irregularly and well distributed over the entire body; a pure white neck is preferred. The black patches should never be large enough to give the appearance of a blanket, nor so small as to give a stippled or dappled effect. Eligible, but less desirable, are a few small grey patches (this grey is consistent with a Merle marking) or a white base with single black hairs showing through, which tend to give a salt and pepper or dirty effect. (Have the same link to deafness and blindness as Merle and white danes.)
- Mantle (in some countries referred to as Bostons due to the similar coloration and pattern as a Boston Terrier ): The color is black and white with a solid black blanket extending over the body; black skull with white muzzle; white blaze is optional; whole white collar preferred; a white chest; white on part or whole of forelegs and hind legs; white tipped black tail. A small white marking in the black blanket is acceptable, as is a break in the white collar.
Other colors occur occasionally but are not acceptable for conformation showing, and they are not pursued by breeders who intend to breed show dogs. These colors include white, fawnequin, merle , merlequin, fawn mantle, and others. Some breeders may attempt to charge more for puppies of these "rare" colors.
To see some examples of the above mentioned colours/patterns, please click here
Temperament
The Great Dane's large and imposing appearance belies its friendly nature; the breed is often referred to as a gentle giant.
Great Danes are generally well-disposed toward other dogs, other non-canine pets and humans. Some individuals may chase or attack small animals, but this is not typical of the breed.
The Great Dane is a very old breed, know as the "Apollo of all dogs." German Gaul and part of Italy and Spain were invaded by an Asiatic people ( The Alans ) who brought with them powerful mastiff like dogs.
Exercise
Like most dogs, Great Danes require daily walks to remain healthy. However it is important not to over exercise this breed, particularly when young. Great Dane puppies grow very large, very fast, which puts them at risk of joint and bone problems. Because of a puppy's natural energy, Dane owners often take steps to minimize activity while the dog is still growing.
Health
The Great Dane in Australia is generally a Healthy Dog. As with any breed and x-breed there are certain health issues that can affect the Breed, this does not mean all dogs within the breed are affected, however you should be aware of the problems that can affect your chosen breed.
Click here to learn more.
Frequently asked questions - click here
