Great Dane Dog Breed
The History, Caring of and Personality of Great Danes
Oct 2, 2009 Janis Masyk-Jackson
Known as a giant among dogs, the Great Dane is a working group dog which stands up to 33 inches tall, (although the tallest on record is 42.2 inches tall according to the Guinness World Records web site,) and weighs up to 180 pounds, even though the average weight is 110 - 150 pounds.
History of the Great Dane
Although the name may lead some people to believe that the Great Dane's origins are Danish, it actually originated in Germany with its ancestors dating back to 1121 B.C. Also known as the Deutsche Dogge and German Mastiff, the Great Dane's original function was hunting and it achieved great success as a boar hunter. Today it is mainly a companion dog.
How to Care for a Great Dane
With a short, thick coat, grooming is minimal for a Great Dane. A quick, daily brushing is all that's needed. During shedding season, shedding is moderate. Calm by nature, a Great Dane's daily exercise requirements are moderate. A leisurely walk each day should suffice.
A Great Dane needs lots of room to stretch out. It enjoys some soft bedding and can favor a couch if allowed. It is not suited for apartment living. Health concerns include gastric torsion, (a bloating disorder,) and a variety of orthopedic problems. The average life span of a Great Dane is 7 - 10 years.
Personality of a Great Dane
The Great Dane is a friendly and reliable dog. It is good with children and friendly with strangers, but will exhibit watchdog abilities when needed. Some do well with other dogs and pets. Known for its great strength, the Great Dane is an intelligent dog and usually pretty quick to train. Affectionate and good-natured, a Great Dane can make a good family pet.
When purchasing a Great Dane, take care that it hasn't come from a puppy mill. Puppy mills keep dogs in small cages with little or no medical care or affection. Often times, puppies that come from puppy mills can appear to look sickly and many have behavioral problems. Puppy mill puppies are usually found at pet shops. Look for a reputable breeder instead.
In addition, most states have Great Dane rescue groups where volunteers work to find new homes for dogs living in foster homes. These dogs have received medical care and love and are ready to find their forever homes.
Readers may also enjoy The Largest Breed of Dog
Sources:
- The Proper Care of Dogs, Christopher Burris, (T.F.H. Publications,) 1991
- Dogs of the World, Maurizio Bongianna and Concetta More, (Crescent Books,) 1988
- The Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds, D. Caroline Coile, Ph.D., (Barron's Educational Series,) 1998
- Paws to Consider, Brian Kilcommons and Sarah Wilson, (Warner Books, Inc.,) 1999
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