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14 Incredible Facts About Great Danes That You Didn't Know

Published: by Ekaterina Sova · This post may contain affiliate links

Great Dane is one of the most popular breeds. Some call him a giant among dogs. Indeed, the impressive size of the dog does not leave anyone indifferent, but, despite this, the dog is an affectionate and gentle animal, adoring his family and ready to stand up for it at any time.

But there's more to them that you probably didn't know! Here are 14 incredible facts about Great Danes.

#1 Origin history.

A Great Dane sitting in the forest
Figures with images of dogs were discovered during excavations in Egypt. They date back to 3000 BC. Also, the images of these dogs are found in ancient Babylonian temples, the period of occurrence of which exceeds 2000 years BC. In addition, there are letters saying that the dogs were kept in ancient Tibet. These documents are dated 1121 BC.

#2 Great Dane in Italy.

A Great Dane sitting in the field of lavender
An interesting fact is that Italians, as well as English-speaking countries, initially did not accept the name "Great Dane." They called this breed "Alano", which meant "mastiff". In Italy, today the Great Dane is called "Alano".

#3 Great Dane character.

A Great Dane sitting in the filed while looking sideways
A well-bred Great Dane is one of the best dogs, characterized by such character traits as good nature, tenderness and affection. This pet loves the family, loves spending time with children. He has an incredible desire to please the owner and all family members, which makes his training simple. Great Dane wants to always be where his family is. He loves children very much, including strangers. This dog will be glad to your friends, but only if it is sure that they do not pose a threat to you. Otherwise, this pet is ready to defend you.

#4 Maintenance and care

A Great Dane with a ring chew toy in its mouth while standing in the forest
Despite the fact that the dog’s hair is short, it sheds. You can keep your hair under control with a weekly brushing of wool. Bathe Great Dane as needed. Some owners of these dogs prefer to resort to the services of professional groomers who not only buy a dog, but also cut its claws. Bathing this large dog is quite difficult.

#5 The ears.

A Great Dane sitting in the bridge during winter
Check your pet’s ears regularly for infections, inflammation, and sulfur contamination. You need to clean your ears with a special swab soaked in a solution that is prescribed by the veterinarian. Please note that cleaning the ear canal with a cotton swab is not recommended.

#6 Mouth.

A Great Dane standing outdoors during snow with a woman walking behind him
In order to keep the dog’s oral cavity clean and free from any unpleasant odors, it is necessary to brush the pet’s teeth weekly.

#7 Training.

A Great Dane puppy leaning towards the woman sitting next to him
Great Danes are classified as dogs with average intelligence, but, as a rule, they are very easy to train in the toilet, as well as in the execution of basic commands. Dogs of this breed have a strong desire to please their master. Many Great Dane dogs are particularly successful in obedience, agility, and other competitions.

#8 Raising a Puppy.

A Great Dane sitting on the floor
Great Dane puppies should not be allowed to move around the house freely, without supervision, until you are sure that the puppy knows all the rules of behavior in the house. Otherwise, there is a risk of damage to furniture and home decor. It should be borne in mind that the puppies of the Great Dane are very similar to children. They like to play, nibble everything that comes across. Therefore, it is important to properly organize the learning process. Eliminate any manifestation of aggression. You need to learn how to explain to the dog what is possible and what is not.

#9 Health and Disease

A Great Dane sitting by the lake
The average life expectancy of a Great Dane is 7-8 years. The main health problems that can occur in dogs of this breed include bloating, dermatitis, pyoderma, demodicosis, hip dysplasia, instability of the cervical spine, malformation (Wobbler syndrome), eyelid inversion, ectropion, congenital idiopathic megaesophagus, congenital deafness, shoulder osteochondrosis, lymphoma, osteosarcoma and dilated cardiomyopathy.

#10 The space in the house.

two Great Danes in the car trunk
The dog requires enough space in the house. This is mainly caused by the possibility of damage to the owner’s property due to the size of the dog.

#11 Musculoskeletal system.

A Great Dane lying on the ground in the mountain
The formation of the musculoskeletal system of the Great Dane takes quite a long time. Do not let the pet jump a lot and allow exhausting runs until the pet reaches a year and a half age.

#12 Diet.

A Great Dane lying on the grass
Great Dane needs a special diet, the features of which must be inquired of the veterinarian.

#13 Problems.

A Great Dane sitting on the ground while staring
In dogs of this breed, various problems associated with the musculoskeletal system may occur.

#14 Life in an apartment.

a Great Dane with two other dogs running by the seashore
Although the Great Danes can be kept in apartments, but still, if your home is very small, it is better not to get such a large dog.
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