Just how great is the Great Dane?

 

 

Well who could resist Scooby Doo or Marmaduke?  Great Danes are famous for being able to act goofy and keep us smiling. The Jetson’s dog Astro was also a Great Dane.  This large and noble breed may look imposing but they make affectionate pets and can learn to play gently.

Danes are part of the ‘Mastiffs’ group, along with Dogue De Bordeaux, Bull Terriers, Boxers, Newfoundlands and a few others. 

Way back when the breed was being developed Great Danes were used to hunt wild boar.  The tenacity to perform this type of behaviour was eventually bred out him as he was shaped into a more gentle soul suitable for humans.  Males measure around 80cm at the shoulder!!!  He is sleek, elegant and muscular.  In fact, he looks like quite an athlete.

Now although some folks can keep a greyhound happily in an apartment provided their daily exercise needs are met, Danes are not good apartment dogs and are much happier with a lot of space.  Oh, and did we mention food? He doesn’t require as much as you might think and he is rarely found to be overweight.

Being originally bred for fighting and guarding, they now find themselves a guardian in the home.  His bark is loud and arresting.  But he’d rather be nudging you for a pat, leaning up against you or looking for an entire lounge suite to take over.  He is also a great height for counter surfing so be aware and that tail can clear the coffee table of clutter in a single sweep.  A wagging Dane tail feels more like a whip when it hits your leg.

They do turn a few heads in the show ring and sport colours such as black, blue, brindle, fawn, harlequin and mantle. He may drool a little but his short and incredibly glossy coat doesn’t shed much.  Occasionally you will find he has no concept of his size.  This fella will still attempt to sit on your lap as if he were a small dog. Sadly his size means the Great Dane usually has a life span of only 8 years.

Leah & Angela O’Meara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)