Great Dane Breed Guide
As big as a pony and as gentle as a lamb, the Great Dane is sure to fill your home and heart. These gentle giants are known for their towering stature and loving nature. Join us as we dive into the world of Great Danes and discover everything you need to know about this majestic breed.
Great Dane Basics
Average Lifespan: 8-10 years
Average Weight: 45-90 kg
Average Height: 71-90 cm
Colouring: Fawn, brindle, blue, black, harlequin, mantle
Trainability: Generally easy to train but needs a consistent hand
Exercise Needs: Moderate, daily walks but nothing too strenuous
Shedding: Moderate, with a bit of a fluff storm during shedding season
Origins of the Great Dane
Did you know Great Danes are neither great at being Danish nor particularly fond of Danishes? In fact, they actually hail from Germany where they were bred to hunt boars, deer, and even bears!
Back in the day, these dogs were called "Deutsche Dogge." Their size and strength were perfect for keeping those pesky animals at bay, but over time, they’ve traded in their hunting gigs for cushy spots on the sofa.
What Do Great Danes Look Like?
If you’ve ever seen a dog that makes a Labrador look like a lapdog, you’ve probably seen a Great Dane. These dogs are all about height and muscle.
They’ve got long, straight legs, a deep chest, and a strong, sleek body. Their heads are long and narrow, with ears that naturally flop down. Their coats are short and come in a variety of colours, including fawn, brindle, blue, black, harlequin, and mantle.
Great Dane Personality
Despite their gigantic size, Great Danes are often referred to as "gentle giants." They’re known for their friendly, patient, and dependable nature.
These dogs are great with kids and other pets if properly socialised. They love to be around their humans and are incredibly loyal. But don’t be fooled by their laid-back attitude – they can be quite protective and will not hesitate to step up if they sense danger.
How Much Space Does a Great Dane Need?
Great Danes might be okay with flat living, but let’s be real – they’d much prefer a house with a garden. These big pups need space to stretch those long legs. They don’t need loads of exercise but will benefit from daily walks and some playtime. Just make sure your furniture is sturdy enough to handle a Dane deciding it’s the perfect spot for a nap.
Are Great Danes Good Family Pets?
Definitely! Great Danes are fantastic family pets. They’re known for being gentle and patient with children, making them great playmates. Their loyalty and protective nature also make them good watchdogs. Just remember, their sheer size means they can accidentally knock over small children, so supervision is always a good idea.
Great Dane Feeding Requirements
Feeding a Great Dane is no small feat. Let's face it – a couple of cups of kibble won't cut it for a dog weighing up to 90 kg! These dogs need a diet that supports their massive size and prevents health issues, and high-quality, nutrient-rich food is essential.
It's best to feed them multiple small meals throughout the day to prevent bloat, a common issue in large breeds. Look for food that includes high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Scrumbles, the Pawfect Food for Great Danes
Our recipes are designed with your canine companion's health in mind. We use high-quality protein sources, gut-friendly probiotics, and essential vitamins and minerals to support their overall health.
Here’s why Scrumbles is great for your Great Dane:
- Gut-friendly probiotics: Added to all our recipes to support digestion and overall health.
- High-quality protein: Up to 70% meat or fish, providing the essential amino acids your Dane needs.
- Hypoallergenic options: Free from gluten, soy, dairy, egg, and red meat.
- Grain-free options: For those sensitive tummies.
- Natural ingredients: No artificial nasties, only wholesome goodness.
With all these fantastic benefits, isn't it time to switch your Great Dane over to Scrumbles? Give it a try and let us know what you think! We can't wait to hear how much your gentle giant loves our food.
Is a Great Dane Right for You?
Great Danes are ideal for families looking for a loyal, gentle giant. They’re easy to train, great with kids and other pets, and will shower you with love and affection. However, their size means they need lots of space and may not be suitable for flat living. They also have a shorter lifespan compared to smaller breeds, so it's important to consider this before bringing one into your family.
