Great Danes are known for their impressive size, gentle demeanor, and loyal personalities. These dogs are often referred to as “gentle giants” due to their towering height and affectionate nature. However, before bringing home a Great Dane, there are several important things to consider. Whether you are adopting a rescue or bringing home a new puppy, here are twelve things to keep in mind:
1. They Are Big Dogs
Great Danes are one of the largest dog breeds in the world, with males standing up to 32 inches tall and weighing up to 175 pounds. Females are typically slightly smaller, standing up to 30 inches tall and weighing up to 140 pounds. As such, it is important to have ample space in your home and a yard for your Great Dane to play and stretch their legs.
2. They Have a Short Lifespan
Great Danes have a relatively short lifespan compared to other dog breeds, with an average life expectancy of around 6-8 years. This is something to keep in mind when deciding to bring a Great Dane into your home, as it means you will have less time with your furry friend than you might with other breeds.
3. They Can Be Expensive
Great Danes can be expensive to care for, especially if they have any health issues. They require a lot of food, which can add up quickly, and may also require specialized medical care due to their size. It is important to have a budget in mind before bringing home a Great Dane.
4. They Need Plenty of Exercise
Despite their large size, Great Danes are relatively inactive indoors and require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They are not typically suited for apartment living and require a yard or access to open spaces to run and play. Daily walks and playtime are essential to keeping your Great Dane healthy and well-behaved.
5. They Are Great With Children
Great Danes are known for their gentle and affectionate personalities, making them great companions for children. They are patient and kind and will often become protective of their younger family members.
6. They Can Be Sensitive
Great Danes are known to be sensitive dogs and may not respond well to harsh or aggressive training methods. Positive reinforcement and consistent training are important for raising a well-behaved Great Dane. They also thrive on attention and may become anxious if left alone for long periods of time.
7. They Shed A Lot
Great Danes have short, smooth coats that shed a lot. Regular grooming and brushing can help to manage shedding but be prepared for some extra cleaning around the house.
8. They May Have Health Issues
Great Danes are prone to several health issues, including hip dysplasia, bloat, and heart disease. It is important to have your Great Dane regularly checked by a veterinarian to catch any potential health problems early on. It is also a good idea to look into pet insurance to help cover any potential medical expenses.
9. They Are Loyal Companions
Great Danes are known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners. They thrive on attention and affection and will often become deeply attached to their human family members. They make great watchdogs and will often become protective of their home and family.
10. They Are Social Animals
Great Danes are social animals and thrive on interaction with their human family members. They are happiest when they are around people and may become depressed or anxious if left alone for long periods of time. It is important to provide plenty of socialization opportunities for your Great Dane, such as taking them to the dog park or enrolling them in obedience training classes.
11. They Require Ongoing Training
Great Danes are intelligent dogs, but they can be stubborn at times. It is important to start training your Great Dane from a young age and to continue their training throughout their life. Positive reinforcement training methods work best for Great Danes, as they respond well to praise and rewards.
12. They Are Not Ideal for Everyone
While Great Danes make wonderful companions for the right family, they are not ideal for everyone. Their large size and high energy level may be overwhelming for some people, and their potential health issues can be costly. It is important to do your research and make sure that a Great Dane is the right fit for you and your family before bringing one home.
13. Make Sure These Products Are On Your Shopping List!
Bringing home a new Great Dane can be overwhelming, so we compiled a comprehensive list of every product you’ll need for your new Great Dane here.
Pet Insurance for Great Danes
As mentioned earlier, Great Danes are prone to several health issues, which can be costly to treat. It is a good idea to look into pet insurance to help cover any potential medical expenses. There are many pet insurance providers available, and it is important to research your options and choose a plan that fits your needs and budget.
Tip: This free tool lets you compare pet insurance prices across all the major carriers.
Training Your Great Dane
Training is an essential part of raising a well-behaved Great Dane. Positive reinforcement training methods, such as rewarding good behavior with treats and praise, work best for Great Danes. Consistency and patience are key when training your Great Dane, and it is important to start their training from a young age.
Check out the Best 7 Online Dog Training Programs here.
FAQs for First-Time Great Dane Owners
1. Are Great Danes good with children?
Yes, Great Danes are known for their gentle and affectionate personalities, making them great companions for children. They are patient and kind and will often become protective of their younger family members.
2. Do Great Danes require a lot of exercises?
Yes, despite their large size, Great Danes are relatively inactive indoors and require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They are not typically suited for apartment living and require a yard or access to open spaces to run and play.
3. What health issues are Great Danes prone to?
Great Danes are prone to several health issues, including hip dysplasia, bloat, and heart disease. It is important to have your Great Dane regularly checked by a veterinarian to catch any potential health problems early on.
4. How much do Great Danes eat?
Great Danes require a lot of food due to their large size, with an average daily intake of around 4-8 cups of high-quality dog food. It is important to choose a dog food that is appropriate for their age, weight, and activity level.
5. How much does it cost to own a Great Dane?
The cost of owning a Great Dane can vary depending on several factors, such as their health and food requirements. However, Great Danes can be expensive to care for, especially if they have any health issues. It is important to have a budget in mind before bringing home your new Great Dane and to be prepared for any potential costs.
6. Do Great Danes shed a lot?
Yes, Great Danes shed moderately throughout the year, with a heavier shedding period during seasonal changes. Regular grooming and brushing can help reduce shedding and keep your Great Dane’s coat healthy and shiny.
7. Are Great Danes easy to train?
Great Danes are intelligent dogs, but they can be stubborn at times. Consistency and positive reinforcement training methods work best for Great Danes. It is important to start their training from a young age and to continue their training throughout their life.
8. How do I socialize with my Great Dane?
Socialization is important for Great Danes, as they are social animals and thrive on interaction with their human family members. Taking them to the dog park, enrolling them in obedience training classes, and introducing them to new people and animals can all help with their socialization.
9. Do Great Danes make good guard dogs?
Great Danes have a natural protective instinct and can make good guard dogs. However, they are known for their gentle and affectionate personalities and may not be as intimidating as other breeds.
10. What should I look for in a Great Dane breeder?
When looking for a Great Dane breeder, it is important to do your research and choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. Look for a breeder who is transparent about their breeding practices, allows you to meet the puppy’s parents, and provides you with health certifications and guarantees.
Conclusion
Bringing home a new Great Dane can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it is important to be prepared for their specific needs and quirks. From their size and energy level to their potential health issues and socialization requirements, there are several things to consider before bringing home a new Great Dane. By doing your research, choosing a reputable breeder or rescue organization, and providing them with proper training, socialization, and care, you can ensure that your Great Dane becomes a beloved member of your family.
Toledo, United States.
