Great Dane

Description:

The Great Dane is a giant, powerful dog. Square in body, but females may be slightly longer than tall. The long head is rectangular in shape. The muzzle is deep, with a pronounced stop. The nose is black, blue/black on blue Danes or black spotted on the harlequins. The dark, deep-set eyes are medium in size. The medium sized ears are set high and either cropped or left natural. If left in their natural state they are folded forward hanging close to the cheek

Height:Dogs 30-34 inches (76-86 cm.) Bitches 28-32 inches (71-81 cm.)    

Weight:Dogs 120-200 pounds (54-90 kg.) Bitches 100-130 pounds (45-59 kg.).

Dog Breed Group:

Working Group

Function:
Guard dog, pet.

Life Span:

7  to 10 years

Temperament:

The Gentle Giant is its nick name. They are great family dog, they are calm and quiet most of the time. Due to their size, Great Dane may look intimidating but are very friendly in nature. They can be a good watchdog and scare off any unwelcomed visitors. They are not aggressive in nature by will be aggressive in defensive situations. They are good with small children but due to their size, boisterous play may result in accidents. Good with other animals if socialize from young. Training migt be difficult because they are quite stubborn sometimes and because of their size, it might be hard to control, advisable to have obedience training while young.

Behavior:
The Great Dane may be the most peace loving of all the mastiffs. He is a gentle, tender, kind, sensitive, and affectionate dog, particularly with children. This stable, calm dog rarely barks and is never aggressive unless the situation warrants. He is alert, protective of his territory and his owners property, wary around strangers, and not easily swayed. His formidable size is enough to dissuade almost anyone.

Health
Great Danes, like most giant dogs, have a fairly slow metabolism. This results in less energy and less food consumption.

Grooming

Great Dane do not need a lot fo grooming and seldom shed. Regular grooming to remove dead hair to maintain smooth and glossy coat.

Living Conditions:

The Great Dane will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is relatively inactive indoors and does best with at least large yard.

History:
Great Dane is said to be the tallest dog in the world. This breed has been available since around 400 years ago. The origin of this breed is debatable, some believes that they are from Germany, some believe that they are from Denmark, some other believe they are from Egypt, Greece, Rome and etc.