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.

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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

75% energy level

Energy level: 75% (High)

Bark level

  • Very vocal
  • Talkative

Bark level: As needed. This breed only barks when necessary

Size

28 to 32 inches tall
Extra large breed size

Size: 28 to 32 inches tall. This is a X large sized Dog.

Lifespan

7 to 10 years

Lifespan: 7 to 10 years average

Weight

110 to 175 lbs

Weight: 110 to 175 lbs typical range

Breed Group
Working group
Energy level
High (75%)
Bark level
As needed
Height
28 to 32 inches
Lifespan
7 to 10 years
Weight
110 to 175 lbs

The Great Dane stands 28 to 32 inches tall and weighs 110 to 175 lbs. Great Danes have a lifespan of 7 to 10 years. They are known for a high (75%) energy level and a as needed bark.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big do Great Danes get?
Great Danes stand 28 to 32 inches tall and typically weigh between 110 and 175 pounds.
How long do Great Danes live?
The average lifespan of a Great Dane is 7 to 10 years.
Are Great Danes good for first-time dog owners?
Great Danes are intelligent but have high energy. They do best with experienced owners who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Do Great Danes bark a lot?
Great Danes typically only bark when necessary — they are not known to be excessive barkers.

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Mature adult Dane

4 years to 5 years

Risk level for common Dane conditions

Cardiomyopathy

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Skin allergies

Senior Dane

6+ years

Risk level for common Dane conditions

Bone cancer

Cardiomyopathy

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Dane puppy

0 to 15 months

Risk level for common Dane conditions

Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)

Foreign body ingestion

Pneumonia

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

Cardiomyopathy

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Skin allergies

Senior Dane

6+ years

Risk level for common Dane conditions

Bone cancer

Cardiomyopathy

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Dane puppy

0 to 15 months

Risk level for common Dane conditions

Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)

Foreign body ingestion

Pneumonia

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.

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

Other breeds like Danes

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