Great Dane
Huge dog with a kind heart
Danes 101
Working groupAlthough physically imposing, the Great Dane is a friendly, good-natured dog. That’s good news because appearing anywhere with a Dane will attract attention -- and endless jokes about putting a saddle on your dog.
What we love about Danes
Forgives everyone who cracks a "saddle" joke
The Great Dane has moderate exercise needs, which makes them surprisingly good for big cities if not for the smallest living spaces. Early socialization and manners training is recommended to set the stage for good behavior in massive adults.
Very vocal
Talkative
As needed
My pet’s health plannerSM
Mature adult Dane
Risk level for common Dane conditions
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
Cardiomyopathy
Skin allergies
Senior Dane
Risk level for common Dane conditions
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
Bone cancer
Cardiomyopathy
Dane puppy
Risk level for common Dane conditions
Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)
Pneumonia
Foreign body ingestion
Young adult Dane
Risk level for common Dane conditions
Entropion
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
Pneumonia
Mature adult Dane
Risk level for common Dane conditions
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
Cardiomyopathy
Skin allergies
Senior Dane
Risk level for common Dane conditions
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
Bone cancer
Cardiomyopathy
Dane puppy
Risk level for common Dane conditions
Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)
Pneumonia
Foreign body ingestion
Young adult Dane
Risk level for common Dane conditions
Entropion
Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
Pneumonia
Nationwide can help you save on your Great Dane's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
Get your Great Dane’s health information in a free report
One of the most well-known cartoon dogs is the lovable, scaredy-cat Great Dane, Scooby Doo. The television show "Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!" premiered in 1969 and followed the adventures of "Scoob" and his human companions as they solved mysteries. The show has since become a classic and has spawned numerous spin-offs, movies and a dedicated fan base.
Great Dane coat care and colors
The Great Dane's coat is easy to care for: Sleek and short, all it needs is weekly brushing and an occasional bath to keep it in healthy condition. Great Danes come in a variety of colors and patterns, including the flashy Harlequin. The Great Dane is a giant dog, and that means giant nails that need to be kept short. Additionally, acclimating puppies to having their feet handled will make a lifetime of nail trims easier. Some dogs better tolerate nail grinding rather than trimming, so experiment with which method works best.
Do Great Danes shed a lot?
All dogs shed, some a little and some a lot. Great Danes are at the low end of the scale, but because of their size, Danes shed more than a smaller short-haired dog. Regular brushing will keep your Great Dane's shedding to a minimum.
Are there any specific grooming needs for a Great Dane?
Great Danes are relatively low-maintenance in the grooming department. They do shed their short fur quite a bit, however. Most dogs do well with weekly brushing and bathing as needed for dirt and smell. Don’t forget paws: Nail trims are best kept up weekly to avoid long dagger nails that are painful when cut back.
What is the best way to keep a Great Dane's coat clean and healthy?
Good nutrition and parasite control will help keep your Great Dane's coat gleaming. Brushing your Dane's coat a couple of times a week will reduce shedding and add shine, as will warm baths as needed.
Dane exercise & training
Dane fun facts
Top girl names for Danes
of Danes are female
of Danes are male
Top boy names for Danes
Nationwide loves Great Danes of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
Other breeds like Danes
Best. Great Dane insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free