The Great Dane

The Great Dane: a great companion

The Great Dane is a faithful and affectionate giant who, leaning on his hind legs, can reach 2.10 meters in height. Here we tell you more about this breed.

Although Scooby-Doo is the best known reference of this breed, it does not do much justice in terms of character. Far from being clumsy and reckless, the Great Dane is a dog that behaves in a very graceful way for his measurements. It is a gentle animal that manages to enchant everyone around him.

This race was, at some time in the past, used as a hunter. However, more than a hundred years ago, the Great Dane is more like a family dog ​​or dog show. Its robust and harmonious constitution is very striking and, since it can have a coat of different colors and patterns, it does not go unnoticed by the beauty judges.


A race of giants
As we mentioned, in the past, this type of dog was used to hunt wild boar, long before the 20th century. In fact, the breed arises from the crossing made between large German dogs and the Bullenbeisser (already extinct). The result of this crossing were several types of 'dogos'.

By the end of the seventeenth century, the Great Dane was begun to be called the 'Apollo' (the Greek god of beauty) of the dogs, due to its elegant aristocratic air, even when its measurements were large.

Although the name of the breed refers to Denmark - in honor of the Count of Buffon, a naturalist convinced that these dogs came from the Nordic country - do not be confused. Actually, this breed is of German origin. That is why they are also known by the following names:

German bulldog.
German mastiff
German Alano.
characteristics
Without a doubt, height is what stands out in this breed of dogs. Hence, they are considered as 'giants'. When they are standing, supported on the hind legs, they can reach 2.10 meters. The males measure to the cross between 80 and 90 centimeters approximately.

On the other hand, the females reach between 72 and 84 centimeters. They are very beautiful animals because their physiognomy is very harmonious. They have a very athletic bearing that is worthy of admiration, especially the musculature. Among other physical characteristics are:

Wide nose.
Ears: medium, falls and high insertion.
Eyes: medium and, generally, dark. With a lively and intelligent look.
Neck: muscular and long. It gives you an upright bearing.
Jaws: wide and well developed.
Loin: slightly arched.
Tail: wide, high insertion and narrow towards the tip.
Weight: between 75 and 100 kilograms the males and between 50 and 90 the females.
Hair: short, bright and varied colors (black, white, metallic blue, harlequin, white with black or yellow spots).

The Great Dane: a balanced dog

Although its size can be intimidating, we are facing a breed of friendly, faithful and affectionate dogs. The Great Dane is very well connected with other dogs as well as humans, including children.

Like every dog, you should be taught to socialize from an early age so that you feel comfortable and learn good manners. This is a dog rather, of timid tendency, that needs to learn to socialize so that it is not scared before situations that are strange to him.

It should be noted that, although the character of these dogs is quite docile and calm, it is necessary to exercise them daily so that they can be happy and in good shape. Otherwise, they could have a great tendency to destroy objects and other mischief.

On the other hand, it must be said that these dogs do not usually accept strangers easily. This detail, added to that by their great size they are in themselves frightening, and to that they have a high and fierce bark, makes of these hairy ones good guardians.

Health and care of the Great Dane
For the rest, a weekly brushing and a bath when necessary, will be enough to keep your fur beautiful. You should also know that giant breeds do not live that long in relation to smaller dogs. Their life expectancy is between 7 and 10 years. And although it is a healthy and strong breed, we must pay attention to issues such as:

Waterfalls.
Overweight.
Hip dysplasia.
Gastric torsion
Osteosarcoma.
Dilated cardiomyopathy.
For a great Dane to be part of the family it is necessary to take into account that this animal needs a good diet, care and regular veterinary attention in order to guarantee a good quality of life. Remember that the bigger the dog, the more responsibilities it entails, as in this case.