Great Dane, a breed of working dog developed at least 400 years ago in Germany, where it was used for boar hunting. The Great Dane is typically
a swift, alert dog noted for courage, friendliness, and dependability. It has a massive square-jawed head and body lines that give it an elegant
appearance.
The Great Dane’s size is the major challenge to its upkeep. The dog requires a large area in which to stretch out and sleep, preferably on soft
bedding to avoid callouses. It also needs a big vehicle in which to travel. Owners should have an emergency stretcher or other plan in case they
need to take an incapacitated Dane to a veterinarian. Everything costs more with a giant dog, including food, drugs, surgeries, boarding, and
bedding. Many Great Danes tend to drool a great deal, so they may not be the breed of choice for fastidious housekeepers. the Great Dane requires
an enclosed yard with a fence at least 6 feet (2 meters) high, although it is not a great jumper. Not excessively active, it still needs at least an hour
of interactive playing or walking each day. To prevent damage to their developing bones, Danes should not be taken for runs until they are at least
two years of age. The breed enjoys games of tug, running, hiking, and trick training. While some compete in agility, a Great Dane’s size makes
many of the standard obstacles very challenging. It prefers temperate weather, as it has little coat cover. However, because Danes are so large,
they build up heat more quickly than smaller dogs. Coat care is minimal, consisting of weekly brushing. However, during shedding season,
brushing should be done daily. Danes do not live long, averaging only 7 to 10 years of age. The breed is prone to gastric dilatation volvulus
(GDV), a bloating condition that is potentially fatal and can require immediate (and often costly) veterinary intervention. Many owners elect to,
have the dog’s stomach surgically attached to the abdominal wall to prevent the more severe complications associated with GDV.
While “gentle giant” may be an overused phrase, it aptly describes the Great Dane. Though large, it is generally friendly and affectionate to both
family and strangers. Danes have a fairly low energy level, and, while playful, they are ready to quit and do something else after just a little while.
The breed is easy to train but is not a quick responder. It is an intimidating watchdog and a fair protection dog. Great Danes are usually friendly
toward unfamiliar dogs, and they get along well with housemates. The Great Dane does not bark without reason. Although its temperament makes
it an excellent choice for people of all ages, Dane’s size and strength can be too difficult for children or the elderly to manage. It should be noted
that these claims are a traditional and widely accepted generalization about the breed, and the behavior of individual Danes may differ.