Trainability

The Great Dane simply loves to work alongside their owners and have been noted to be very trainable. However, like with all dog breeds, keeping it fun and going at your dog’s own pace is important. Due to their impressive size, it is important that you start training as soon as your large pawed pup enters your home. Teaching them to walk nicely on a leash is paramount, or you could find yourself being literally dragged down the street. They need to be taught manners from an early age to avoid those ‘giant dog mishaps’…think knocking you over in the doorway with armfuls of shopping. They respond well to positive reinforcement full of love and praise. It is key to ensure early socialisation of your pup, so enrolling in your local puppy-preschool is advised.

Grooming

The short coat of the Great Dane is easy to care for. But buyer be aware…they do have a tendency to shed so regular grooming is advised. Due to their big-size it is important to get your Dane used to bathing and grooming from a young age. If they do not learn to enjoy this procedure you could certainly have a whole lot of dog to deal with come bath-time! Clipping nails on a regular basis is also recommended. Large dogs with long nails can cause problems, so start early and use treats and praise for calm behaviour during grooming.

Exercise Requirements

Being a giant breed care must be taken not to overexercise your young dog. During the first few months your pup will grow very quickly, so ensure you take care of those massive joints and go easy. Your grown Dane will love a romp off leash and a daily walk to keep in good shape. They simply love a good run down the beach or a swim, and any activity that involves being with you. Chat with your breeder in terms of what exercise is best for your growing pup. Ward off boredom with adequate exercise and home-alone challenges. Watch for when your Dane is showing signs of exhaustion, particularly when playing with other dogs. It’s also a good idea to take care when your large dog is running with smaller breeds. Due to their sheer size, they can inflict accidental injury when playing rough with smaller dogs.

Intelligence

The Great Dane is a very intelligent dog and thrives on training and socialising. Again, it’s important to start early as bad habits are difficult to out-train. Having a clear set of rules before you invite your pup home is important. Remembering that allowing your little pup to jump, or even sleep on the couch, may not be so cute when they are a towering dog. Ensure your dog is correctly exercised and that you have at least six-foot fences to avoid a bored dog escaping. Get creative with boredom busting ideas when you are not at home with your beloved giant.

Family Friendly

Danes make wonderful family companions and due to their size will tolerate children well. However, like with all dogs, please ensure you teach your children how to correctly behave around a dog. A Great Dane does not understand the sheer size of their body, so from time to time they may accidentally knock over a small child. This is where training is important, teaching ‘wait’ before the walk-through doors and basic manners can guarantee many of their ‘size’ related accidents are less likely.

Indoor/ Outdoor

Their short coats mean that Danes will feel the cold more than some breeds. So please take this into consideration when leaving your Dane outside in the cold. Six-foot fences are a must to ensure you pup is kept safe throughout their life. Danes will spend hours lazing about in the sun (or on your couch), they are a very relaxed breed that will benefit from companionship and an indoor life.

Breeding

It is very important to only source your new family member from a reputable breeding establishment, to ensure your puppy is healthy. Ask all the important questions about hereditary problems and ask to see mum and dad. Contact your local breed club and research your chosen breeder. Your breeder should have proof that they regularly test their dogs for genetic diseases and to ensure that the dogs they are breeding from have sound temperaments. It may take a little more time than a quick purchase, but it can save you and your family from unimaginable heartache and pain dealing with a sick puppy.