Great Dane - Breed Information

Do you fancy getting one of the most prominent and most affectionate dog breeds out there for a canine companion? If so, then you will find that the Great Dane fits the bill. Before you decide to get one though, it would be prudent to learn as much as you can about them before making the big decision.

Appearance

Great Danes are amongst the world's tallest breeds growing to a height of up to 36 inches and weighing up to 175 pounds. Males were generally larger than females that often weigh only up to 140 pounds. Their short, thick coats can be brindle, fawn, blue, black, harlequin (irregular black or merle patches) or mantle.

History

While some claim that Great Danes have their roots from ancient Egyptian times as far back as 3000 B.C., composed descriptions emerged in Chinese works around 1121 B.C depicting a large dog that looks very much like the Great Dane.

The breed we recognize with were sporting canines utilized by the Germans to hunt boars and other wild animals. The breed was first refined in Europe during the 1800s and by 1876, became the national dog breed of Germany. When their hunting purpose was not needed, Great Danes ended up being companion animals and became famous all over the world.

Temperament

Great Danes can be frightening, with their intimidating and, dominant stature. However, this giant breed has a gentle and affectionate disposition, typically getting along with other animals and individuals.

Unlike most hunting dogs, Great Danes do not have a strong desire to chase after small animals and are more concerned about protecting their household. They rarely cause any real harm unless they feel that they have no choice. Hence they have earned the title - Gentle Giants. Practically 80% of Danes have a gentle temperament and do well around children and other pets in the household.

Potential Health Problems

Inning Accordance With the Great Dane Club of America, the most common health issues related to this canine breed are:

• Bloat
• Cancer
• Heart problems
• Different joint problems

Feeding Great Danes at an elevated height and minimizing activity around feeding times can reduce the possibility of bloat. Spaying or neutering is generally suggested to alleviate the probability of prostate cancer in males and false pregnancies and uterine infections in females.

Care and Grooming

Unlike most other large sporting dogs, Great Danes tend to grow rapidly over a longer period. This is one thing that owners would want to keep in mind before getting them for a pet. For one thing, their size puts them in danger of developing issues with joints and bones. Hence you'll wish to limit the quantity of workout provided to pups during their growth.

Great Danes need regular strolls to keep them on the course to a healthy way of life. However extreme running can cause bloating. Consistent and the equivalent day-to-day workout is best for these gentle giants.

Regular bathing for these friendly pet dogs is not required; in fact, extreme bathing could strip the coat of essential oils. Shedding is equivalent to other short-haired types, and a day-to-day brushing will help mitigate this problem.

With proper care, a Great Dane can live for up to 7 to 10 years and sometimes longer.

Never miss an important day in the life of someone special to you. Mark the date on a Great Dane calendar to serve as a reminder.