Large breed
Great Dane Puppies
Gentle giant, great companion for families
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- Adult weight 110–175 lbs
- Height 28–34 in
- Lifespan 7–10 years
- Exercise 60 min a day
About the Great Dane
The Great Dane, often referred to as the gentle giant of the dog world, has a history that dates back to ancient times. Originally bred to hunt wild boars, this majestic breed has transitioned into a loving companion known for its affectionate nature and friendly disposition. If you have young children, you’ll find that Great Danes are particularly good with kids, often forming a close bond and being protective yet gentle playmates. Their calm demeanor makes them a suitable addition to most families, and they typically get along well with other dogs and cats.
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With a moderate energy level, Great Danes enjoy a good romp outdoors but are more than happy to lounge around the house after some exercise. A daily walk and some playtime will suffice to keep them content, making them a more manageable choice for those living in apartments, especially considering their size. Grooming is a breeze, requiring attention just once a month with minimal shedding, which keeps your space relatively tidy.
Trainability is one of the Great Dane’s strong suits, as they are intelligent and eager to please. This breed responds well to positive reinforcement and consistency in training. While they don’t have a strong barking tendency, they are quite alert and will let you know if something unusual occurs, enhancing their roles as watchdogs in your home. If you’re considering adding a Great Dane to your family, you can expect a loving and loyal companion who will make everyday life just a little bit more splendid. Visit us at Petland Hoffman Estates, IL, to meet these gentle giants and find the perfect addition to your family.
Great Dane breed profile
Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.
Temperament
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Affection Very affectionate
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Playfulness Calm
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With strangers Friendly
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Territorial Relaxed
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Prey drive Low
Family & other pets
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Young children Good
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Older children Good
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Other dogs Selective
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Cats Needs care
Energy & exercise
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Energy Relaxed
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Mental stimulation Light
Training
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Trainability Quick to learn
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Intelligence Very bright
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Stubbornness Biddable
Care & upkeep
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Shedding Light
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Drooling A drooler
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Barking Occasional
Home life
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Apartment living Prefers a house
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Time alone Short periods
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Cold weather Needs a coat
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Warm weather Needs shade
A good match for
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First-time owners Good first dog
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Senior owners Good
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Running partner Short distances
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Hiking Short walks
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Therapy work Good
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Guarding Protective
Living with a Great Dane
Temperament & Family Fit
Great Danes are known for their gentle giants, making them a wonderful addition to any family. Their affectionate nature means they can be great companions for children, often forming a close bond with the little ones in the household. While they may prefer the company of their human family, they can also coexist with other pets, though supervision is recommended.
Energy & Exercise
Despite their towering size, Great Danes have a moderate energy level and enjoy a good balance of play and relaxation. A couple of daily walks and some playtime in the yard are usually sufficient to keep them happy. They’re not overly demanding in terms of exercise but appreciate some outdoor time to stretch their long limbs.
Care & Grooming
Caring for a Great Dane is relatively straightforward, with their grooming needs being minimal. Their coat sheds moderately, requiring monthly grooming to keep it looking its best and to manage shedding. This breed’s size means you’ll want to ensure they have a comfortable space to rest, as well as regular check-ups to monitor their health as they age.
Training Notes
Great Danes are quite trainable, thanks to their intelligence and eagerness to please. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work best with this breed, helping them learn commands and house manners effectively. Socialization is key during their younger years to ensure they grow into well-mannered companions, especially given their large presence in any environment.
Caring for a Great Dane
- Grooming
- Monthly brushing
- Grooming cost
- Average
- Monthly food
- High
- Outdoor space
- A yard is recommended
- Allergy friendly
- Not considered hypoallergenic
Frequently Asked Questions
How big do Great Danes typically get?
Great Danes are known for their impressive size; they are considered one of the largest dog breeds. Males usually weigh between 140-175 pounds, while females range from 110-145 pounds. Despite their big stature, they are gentle giants with a sweet demeanor.
Are Great Danes suitable for families with young children?
Absolutely! Great Danes are known to be very good with young kids, often forming strong bonds and showing a lot of affection. Their calm and friendly nature makes them playmates and protectors for children, providing a loving atmosphere in the home.
How much exercise do Great Danes need?
Great Danes have a lower energy level, typically requiring moderate exercise. Daily walks and playtime are generally sufficient to keep them healthy and happy. Just be mindful not to overexert them, especially in their younger years as they grow.
Do Great Danes shed a lot?
Although Great Danes have a short coat, they do shed some hair, earning a shedding level of 3. Regular brushing can help manage loose hair and keep your home cleaner, and a monthly grooming routine is usually all they need to stay looking their best.
How trainable are Great Danes?
Great Danes are typically quite trainable thanks to their intelligence and eagerness to please. With consistent and positive reinforcement methods, they can learn commands and manners relatively easily. Early socialization and training are recommended to help them develop into well-behaved companions.
