The Great Dane is nicknamed the Gentle Giant, as it is one of the tallest, most gentle breeds of dog in the world. The current record is held by a dog named Zeus, which measures 112 cm (44 in.) from its paw to its shoulder. This breed's majestic and dignified appearance, balanced and elegant conformation and its powerful galloping figure make it unique among the canine breeds.
In terms of appearance, the standard of the breed requires that it should be square in the ratio between length and height. The breed standard also states that the male should not be less than 76 cm (30 inches) at the shoulder and the female should not be less than 71 cm (28 inches) at the shoulder.
The Great Dane has a well-proportioned muscular body, long and rectangular head, a pronounced frontal stop, deep muzzle, dark-colored round eyes, long, well arched and muscular neck, straight and strong legs, compact rounded feet, medium-sized triangular ears, cropped or left intact and medium length tail which is set high. Cropping ears is illegal in Europe. Females are slightly longer than tall. The average height of this breed is 30-34 inches for males and 28-32 inches for females and the average weight is 120-200 pounds for males and 100-160 pounds for females. Males are typically more massive than females. Their life expectancy is 9-13 years. This breed is not completely grown until adulthood is reached (2 years old). Proper nutrition is essential to this breed in order to maintain overall health. Bone health is extremely important so as to support the heavy weight of their bodies.
The coat is short, smooth and dense and the standard of this breed accepts six colors brindle, blue, black, harlequin, fawn and mantle. Merle, blue merle, all white and chocolate are not recognized colors. The blue variety is steel blue, and white markings are considered faults. The black variety is shiny black and white markings are considered faults. The brindle variety has a tiger-stripe pattern. The fawn variety is yellow gold with a black mask, especially around eyebrows. The harlequin variety is white with black medium-sized patches irregularly distributed over the whole body, preferably with a pure white neck. The mantle variety is known as Boston (similar to Boston Terrier) and is black and white, with a pronounced black blanket covering the body and black skull with white muzzle, white chest and preferably white collar. White and merle varieties are associated with deafness-producing genes.
This breed has a lovely, charming personality and disposition, very friendly, gentle and affectionate. It is patient, protective and gentle with small children and excellent with other dogs and smaller animals as well. It makes a wonderful family companion and a courageous and dependable watchdog, because it is dedicated, loving, faithful and trustworthy. This breed thrives on human contact, but it is wary of strangers although it does not show signs of aggression unless the circumstances require it. It rarely barks, only if needed. Early socialization is important and proper training is easily achieved. It is considered one of the most reliable breeds of all. It loves to be cuddled and even to be a lap dog.
This breed can adapt to any living conditions and, although large, it is suitable to live in apartments, if the daily exercise routine is respected. Highly important is to avoid over-exercising these dogs when they are puppies and still growing, in order to prevent the occurrence of joint and bone problems later on in life.
By adopting an imposing Great Dane, you will have the perfect family companion, a dependable, loving and loyal friend.
