Danes 101

Working group

Although 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.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat 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.

Energy level
Bark level
  • As needed
Size
28 to 32 inches tall
Lifespan
7 to 10 years
Weight
110 to 175 lbs

We want to see pictures of your Dane!

Tag @NationwidePet on social media!

My pet’s health plannerSM

Mature adult Dane

4 years to 5 years

Risk level for common Dane conditions

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Cardiomyopathy

Skin allergies

Senior Dane

6+ years

Risk level for common Dane conditions

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Bone cancer

Cardiomyopathy

Dane puppy

0 to 15 months

Risk level for common Dane conditions

Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)

Pneumonia

Foreign body ingestion

Young adult Dane

16 months to 3 years

Risk level for common Dane conditions

Entropion

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Pneumonia

Mature adult Dane

4 years to 5 years

Risk level for common Dane conditions

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Cardiomyopathy

Skin allergies

Senior Dane

6+ years

Risk level for common Dane conditions

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Bone cancer

Cardiomyopathy

Dane puppy

0 to 15 months

Risk level for common Dane conditions

Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)

Pneumonia

Foreign body ingestion

Young adult Dane

16 months to 3 years

Risk level for common Dane conditions

Entropion

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Pneumonia

2-Great dane laying down GettyImages-984244958

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

3-Fun fact Great dane GettyImages-469819001

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.

Dane exercise & training

Exercise level

Exercise level

Great Danes don’t need a lot of exercise, although because of their size it does require distance to keep those legs moving. For safety, don’t push young dogs until they’re physically mature.

Trainability

Trainability

It take energy to grow up to be tall, so Great Danes can seem goofy through adolescence. Reward good behavior and be patient.

Group 7596

Dane fun facts

Top girl names for Danes

100%

of Danes are female

0%

of Danes are male

Top boy names for Danes

Nationwide loves Great Danes of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Explore pet insurance

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
Get a quote today