Great Dane
Also known as Deutsche Dogge · Dogue Allemand · Gran Danés
Germany, Molossian type
- Size
- Giant
- Height
- 72–86 cm
- Weight
- 45–90 kg
- Life expectancy
- 7–10 yrs
- Gentle
- Affectionate
- Calm
- Sensitive
- Good with family
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Great Dane
The Great Dane is a giant dog from Germany, developed from old mastiff-type hunting dogs used for boar and later kept as a stately estate guardian. It is tall, elegant and muscular, with a short, glossy coat in fawn, brindle, black, blue or harlequin. It is known for its great height and gentle character, and is sometimes called a gentle giant.
Temperament
Usually calm, affectionate and good-natured with family. Needs early socialisation and training before it gets large. Can be sensitive and dislikes being left alone for long periods. Often thinks it is a lap dog.
Exercise
Needs moderate daily exercise: regular walks and some play. Avoid hard exercise for puppies and after meals to protect joints and reduce bloat risk.
Grooming
Short coat needs only a weekly brush. Trim nails regularly and check skin over pressure points.
Care & wellbeing
Giant dogs have fast growth, so feed a suitable diet and avoid over-feeding puppies. Joint, heart and bloat risks should be discussed with your vet. They have a shorter life than most breeds.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 67.5 kg adult- Water
- 2.7 L–4.1 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 2,640 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 30–60 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Great Dane
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A giant German breed developed from large mastiff-type hunting dogs once used for boar hunting, and later refined as a companion and estate guardian. It is a very large, gentle dog with a short life expectancy relative to smaller breeds, and needs space, careful feeding and careful exercise while growing.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus)
- Dilated cardiomyopathy
- Hip dysplasia
- Wobbler syndrome
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Heart screening
- Hip scores
- Spine and neck assessment
Not every Great Dane is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Highest than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 7–10 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Great Dane right for you?
Could suit
- Calmer households and owners who prefer gentle walks
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- Space, food and vet costs are a concern — giant breeds need more of all three
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Great Dane get?
Adult Great Danes typically stand about 72–86 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 45–90 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Great Danes live?
Typically 7–10 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Great Dane need?
As a guide, around 30–60 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Great Dane need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Great Danes easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Great Danes shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Great Danes good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Great Dane live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Great Danes have?
The breed can be prone to bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), dilated cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia. Not every Great Dane is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Germany
- Type
- Molossian type
- Internationally recognised
- 1961