Great Dane Breed Guide
Also known as: Deutsche Dogge, German Mastiff, Apollo of Dogs
Gentle giants with noble bearing, Great Danes are calm, affectionate dogs whose impressive size is matched by their surprisingly gentle nature.

Quick facts about this breed
Size
Giant
Weight
50-80 kg
Lifespan
6-10 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Giant
Weight
50-80 kg
Lifespan
6-10 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
About Great Danes
The Great Dane originated in Germany during the 16th century, despite its name suggesting Danish origins. Originally bred for hunting wild boar and later refined as estate guardians, these gentle giants were developed from mastiff-type dogs and Irish Wolfhounds.
Great Danes are among the tallest dog breeds. Their short, smooth coats come in various colours including fawn, brindle, black, blue, and harlequin. They're known for their noble appearance and gentle, friendly temperaments.
These dogs are gentle, patient, and make excellent family pets despite their imposing size. They're generally good with children and are often called gentle giants due to their calm nature. They require moderate exercise and are surprisingly adaptable to apartment living. While generally healthy, potential concerns include bloat, hip dysplasia, and cardiomyopathy. Early socialisation helps ensure they're well-adjusted, confident adults.
Complete Care Guide for Great Danes
Expert advice on keeping your Great Dane healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Providing optimal nutrition for a Great Dane requires careful attention to their unique dietary needs as a giant breed. High-quality protein forms the foundation of their diet, supporting proper muscle development and maintenance. However, protein levels must be carefully balanced to prevent excessive growth that could strain developing joints and bones.
Maintaining the correct balance of nutrients becomes particularly crucial during growth phases. The proper ratio of calcium to phosphorus helps ensure strong bone development while minimising the risk of skeletal problems common in giant breeds. Great Danes often display sensitivity to certain ingredients, making digestibility a key consideration when selecting their food.
To support their digestive health, incorporate easily digestible ingredients and ensure a balanced supply of dietary fibre. This helps promote optimal nutrient absorption while reducing the likelihood of gastrointestinal upset. Given their large size, Great Danes require significant water intake to maintain proper hydration. Always provide unlimited access to fresh, clean water, especially during warm weather or following exercise sessions.
Consider feeding multiple smaller meals throughout the day rather than one or two large portions. This feeding strategy helps reduce the risk of bloat, a serious condition that commonly affects deep-chested breeds like the Great Dane. Monitor portion sizes carefully to maintain a healthy weight without promoting overly rapid growth.
How healthy is your Great Dane?
A two minute quiz for your personalised results and health plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Great Danes from our community of pet parents
Great Danes are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They are often referred to as gentle giants because despite their large size, they are generally very gentle and loving. They are great with families and tend to get along well with other pets. Great Danes are also known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them excellent family dogs.
Great Dane Blog Posts & Guides
Expert advice and tips specifically for Great Dane owners
Dog Breeds Similar to Great Dane
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the Great Dane

Mastiff
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Leonberger
Gentle lions with golden coats, Leonbergers are calm, powerful dogs whose impressive size is matched by their surprisingly gentle, family-oriented nature.

Irish Wolfhound
Gentle giants with ancient heritage, Irish Wolfhounds are calm, affectionate sighthounds whose noble bearing matches their impressive size perfectly.