Author: Hello Danes

What Kind of Dog is Scooby Doo? The Many Mysteries of Scooby’s Thrilling Breed

What kind of dog is Scooby Doo?

Kids and adults across generations may not have much in common, but they have one thing: the original series Scooby Doo.

Whether you are 65 years old or a 5 year old kid, you’re bound to know the famous Scooby Doo dog character.

For decades, cartoons have been trying to live up to Hanna Barbera productions level of popularity, with Scooby Doo, but have failed.

This is probably because Scooby Doo has something for everyone.

For the kids, he’s a lovable and silly dog who gets into all sorts of wacky hijinks.

For adults, he’s a nostalgic reminder of their childhood with a bit of mystery thrown in.

But for everyone- the mystery remains: what is Scooby Doo’s breed?

WHAT KIND OF DOG IS SCOOBY DOO?

For years, this mystery cartoon has been stated to be a Great Dane.

But, do his physical features and personality match up to the Great Dane breed?

In order to really analyze the Scooby Doo character, we have to go back into the Scooby Doo show and discuss some of his Scrappy Doo traits.

WHAT DOES SCOOBY DOO LOOK LIKE?

Scooby Doo is mostly black with a brownish muzzle and chest.

He has white paws and wears an orange and green collar with a license plate that reads “SD” (for Scooby Doo).

His ears are droopy and he almost always has his tongue hanging out of his mouth.

Scooby is also quite large- he towers over his human companions Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma.

In fact, Scooby is so large that he is often mistaken for a bear or other wild animal!

WHAT DO GREAT DANES LOOK LIKE?

According to the American Kennel Club, Great Danes are “powerful, large and muscular” with a “long and strong” muzzle.

Their ears are also droopy like Scooby Doo’s, often described as “elephant-like.” Some Great Danes ears are cropped, which makes them stand upright.

GREAT DANE EAR CROPPING

Great Danes come in many colors, but the most common are fawn (a light tan), brindle (a dark tiger-stripe pattern), blue, black, harlequin (a patchwork of black and white), and mantle (mostly black with a white chest).

Blue Great Danes
Mantle Great Danes
Black Great Danes
Double Merle Great Danes
Colors of Great Danes
Harlequin Great Danes
White Great Danes

Many Great Danes also have a small amount of white on their paws and chests.

Interestingly enough, the AKC also notes that Great Danes are “gentle giants” who are “patient and loving with children.”

They are also very friendly dogs who love to be around people.

10 things you should know about Great Dane Dogs

So, based on appearance alone, it’s easy to see how Scooby Doo could be a Great Dane.

But what about the rest of his character?

WHAT IS SCOOBY DOO’S PERSONALITY LIKE?

Scooby Doo is best known for being a bit of a scaredy-cat. He’s often afraid of ghosts, monsters, and other things that go bump in the night.

However, he’s also very brave when it comes to protecting his friends and solving mysteries. In fact, Scooby is often the one who comes up with the plans to catch the bad guys!

WHAT IS A GREAT DANE PERSONALITY LIKE?

Great Danes are also known for being gentle and loving, but they can also be very brave dogs.

Tips for Successfully Caring for Great Danes

Great Danes have a heart as big as their size. They are loyal and protective of their families, but they are also gentle and loving.

They are known for being great family dogs.

So, based on his personality traits, it’s easy to see how Scooby Doo could be a Great Dane.

Except for… the mystery of how Scooby Doo handles being in sticky situations….

HOW DOES SCOOBY DOO HANDLE SUPERNATURAL MYSTERIES?

Despite his size, Scooby is a total scaredy-cat.

He’s always the first to run away when things get too spooky for him.

But that doesn’t mean he’s not brave- when push comes to shove, Scooby is always there to help solve the mystery, even if it means putting himself in danger.

So, does Scooby Doo and his tendency to be a bit afraid match up with a Great Dane?

HOW DO GREAT DANES HANDLE SITUATIONS THEY ARE AFRAID OF?

The Great Dane breed can be generally pretty timid.

Great Danes are real characters when it comes to their choices of what they are afraid of.

Puppy Socialization

Sometimes a Great Dane might have logical fears, like being afraid of the fireworks or loud sounds.

Other times their fears might be more random, like being afraid of plastic bags, strangers, umbrellas or other animals.

But despite their fears, Great Danes are still brave dogs who will stay loyal to their families when it matters most.

Scooby Doo may be a bit of a mystery, but there’s no doubt that he shares many characteristics with the Great Dane breed.

Now let’s discuss some of the ways that Scooby Doo was able to find great success.

IS SCOOBY DOO SMART?

Even though Scooby Doo might be afraid of some silly things, he had a way of being quite the mystery machine when it came to helping his owner, Shaggy Rogers, out of sticky situations.

Scooby Doo is pretty scrappy. He always seemed to know how to protect Shaggy from the villains.

For example, in the episode “A Clue for Scooby Doo,” the gang is trying to solve the mystery of who is stealing food from a local restaurant.

After following some clues, they discover that it is actually a group of hungry ghosts!

Scooby Doo uses his quick thinking and bravery to help Shaggy escape from the ghosts.

In another episode, “Scooby Doo and a Mummy Too,” the gang is trying to solve the mystery of who is terrorizing a local museum.

After following some clues, they discover that it is actually a mummy!

Once again, Scooby Doo uses his quick thinking and bravery to help Shaggy escape from the mummy.

So, even though Scooby Doo might be afraid of some things, he is still a very smart and brave dog.

Scooby Doo is a great example of how even the most timid dogs can be brave when it matters most.

Now the question remains, is a Great Dane a match for Scooby Doo and his wit’s?

ARE GREAT DANES SMART?

Although some dog breeds may take the cake on this one, a Great Dane is definitely no stranger to intelligence.

The breed has been known to be quite resourceful and have a sharp memory.

There are many stories of Great Danes who have solved complex problems and been of great assistance to their owners.

Since from the beginning, a Great Dane was bred as a hunting dog, most Great Danes have the drive to perform jobs in real life.

8 Reasons You Should Not Get a Great Dane as a Guard Dog

IS SCOOBY DOO A FOOD LOVER?

Scooby Doo loves a good dog Scooby snack.

So much so, actually, that he’s always getting himself into trouble because he can’t resist following his nose to a good mystery.

But, dog lovers know that most dogs love snacks. So, how much does the drive for food really match the Scooby Doo breed to a Great Dane?

DO GREAT DANES LOVE FOOD?

If you have a Great Dane, you know that they are a dog breed that will do just about anything for a good snack.

A Great Dane puppy is highly motivated by food.

Great Dane: Puppy vs. Adult Food
A Tasty Top: The Top 11 Foods to Feed a Great Dane

This is not surprising when you consider that, as hunting dogs, they were bred to have a high drive for food. They absolutely LOVE treats!

This trait has been passed down through the generations and is one of the things that make Great Danes such great dogs.

Great Dane Not Eating – What to Do

DOES SCOOBY DOO LOVE PEOPLE?

Scooby Doo is a character who is known for his love of people.

In almost every episode, Scooby Doo is shown to be friendly and loving towards the people he meets, even if they are strangers.

He is kind to Scrappy Doo and all of his friends including Daphne Blake, Fred Jones and Ken Spears.

Scooby is the kind of dog and character who can make the other characters feel happy, just by being around him.

DO GREAT DANES LOVE PEOPLE?

A Great Dane typically is a huge social butterfly.

They may be large dogs, but they are also some of the most loving and gentle dogs around.

Their size can be intimidating to some people, but once you get to know a Great Dane, you will see that they are just big softies.

They love people and enjoy being around them. This dog breed is one that absolutely is the kind of dog you want to add to your family, even if you have kids.

WHAT COLOR IS SCOOBY DOO?

Scooby Doo’s color is brown. He has a light brown fur with dark brown spots.

He’s got a long tail and bowed legs, which is likely just the way the cartoon character was designed.

Cartoons tend to exaggerate characters at times, so we can assume that in real life, he has normal dog legs.

WHAT COLOR ARE GREAT DANES?

The Scooby Doo dog breed doesn’t match up with EVERY Great Dane color, but does it match up with any of them?

There are 7 different Great Dane colors: Black, Blue, Brindle, Fawn, Harlequin, Mantle, and Merle.

The Colors of Great Danes
Blue Great Danes – Facts, Photos, and Care
Harlequin Great Danes

The Fawn color resembles the Scooby Doo breed! Check it out:

SO, WHAT KIND OF DOG IS SCOOBY DOO?

From analyzing Scooby Doo and his character, how he acts, what he looks like and what he loves, it is easy to see that Scooby Doo is a Great Dane.

He has all of the characteristics of a Great Dane, from his love of food to his gentle and loving nature.

The next time you watch cartoons and Scooby Doo pops up, take a closer look and see if you can figure out what kind of dog he really is. Chances are, you’ll see a Great Dane.

Likewise, the next time you see a Great Dane in real life, try to watch it and see if you can figure out if it resembles a ‘Scooby Doo Dog Breed’.

You might be surprised that if you see a Fawn Great Dane, it probably looks like a ‘Scooby Doo Dog’.

THE MYSTERY IS SOLVED

So, there you have it!

A Great Dane is the perfect match for the Scooby Doo character.

Both dogs are intelligent, resourceful, friendly, loving and gentle.

Plus, they both love food! If you are ever wondering what kind of dog Scooby Doo is, do your research on the Great Dane dog breed.

Whether it’s his appearance, personality, or even the way he handles being in sticky situations, Scooby Doo is the epitome of a Great Dane.

Do you have a Great Dane that shares some of Scooby Doo? Let us know!

Read More:
The Best Collars for Great Danes
Great Dane Farts: The Funniest Collection of Photos and Videos on the Internet
: What Kind of Dog is Scooby Doo? The Many Mysteries of Scooby’s Thrilling Breed

READ MORE:

The Top 5 Adorable Facts About Great Dane Brindle Dogs

Miniature Great Danes: The ‘Pocket’ Version of a Great Dane

June 19, 2022
One Big Droopy Eyed Dog: Eyelid Ectropion in a Dog’s Eye
If you have a droopy eyed dog, your dog might have something called Eyelid Ectropion.

Eyelid Ectropion causes droopy eyelids and they can be pretty uncomfortable too.

DROOPY EYED DOG: WHY DOES MY DOG HAVE A DROOPY EYE?

If you notice your dog has droopy eyes, they might have something called an Ectropion.

Mild ectropion will cause an idiopathic droopy eye in your dog.

With severe Ectropion, your dog’s eye might need surgical correction.

If you have a Great Dane that was sold as a ‘European’ Great Dane with droopy eyes, it might have Ectropion eyes. (The Problem with European Great Danes)

Ectropion in dogs happens in many dog breeds, but is most common in the Bloodhound, Basset Hound, St. Bernard, Golden Retrievers, and Cocker Spaniel. It can impact young dogs and old dogs.

There are many different causes of Ectropion, but the most common cause is genetics.

Are Backyard Breeders Breeding Ectropion Eyes Under the Guise of ‘Euro’?

Other causes can include: trauma, neoplasia, facial paralysis, and inflammatory conditions.

WHAT CAUSES THE DROOPY EYE?

The most common cause of a droopy eye is genetics. Although ectropion is noted to have an underlying cause of genetics in some situations, there are other underlying causes as well.

Other causes of a dog’s ectropion can include: trauma, neoplasia, facial paralysis, and inflammatory conditions.

Bad Breeders | Euro Great Danes | Droopy Eyes
Bad Breeders
Scam Breeders: What to Look For
Breeders: Shady Business
Should I Choose a Breeder or Rescue?

Congenital Ectropion: If your dog has had a droopy eye since they were born, they likely inherited it.

Acquired Ectropion: However, if you notice an acquired ectropion, it can be more serious. Acquired ectropion means that your dog did not have a droopy eye, but now it does.

If your dog suddenly has a lower eyelid that is drooping outward, they are keeping their eyelid partially closed or their eye is protruding slightly, it was most likely acquired.
1. Trauma: If your dog fell and had trauma to their face or experienced brain trauma it could have caused their eyelid to droop.
2. Neoplasia: Tumors or cancer can also cause a dog’s eyelid to droop.
3. Facial Paralysis: If your dog has a tumor or growth on their facial nerve, it can cause paralysis of the lower eyelid.
4. Some mild cases of a droopy lower eyelid can turn into severe cases over time.
Ectropion in dogs can be a pretty serious condition depending on the underlying cause.

WHY DOES IT MATTER IF MY DOG HAS A DROOPY EYE?

The dog’s upper eyelid is designed to protect itself from debris, dust, and other particles that might harm the eye.

The lower eyelid is what helps keep the tear film (third eyelid) in place.

The tear film is important because it helps keep the eye lubricated and healthy.

If your dog has a droopy lower eyelid, they are at risk for drying of the cornea and conjunctiva.

This can lead to ulceration and perforation of the eyeball. (cornea ulceration).

A droopy eyelid can also lead to entropion.

Entropion is when the eyelashes rub against the eye and cause corneal scarring. Entropion requires medical treatment to reduce scar tissue and corneal inflammation.

GETTING ECTROPION IN DOGS DIAGNOSED

To get your dogs idiopathic droopy eye diagnosed, you just need to schedule them to see an eye doctor.

The eye doctor will examine the pet’s eye exhibiting the droop and measure the eyelid margin.

The eye doctor will also determine if there is a corneal ulceration by doing a corneal staining, if necessary.

GETTING ECTROPION TREATED

In some cases, you do not need to treat ectropion.

Some dogs can live long, healthy lives with no serious risk of injury chronic inflammation or pain from the disease.

If the droopy eye portion is severe, surgical intervention might be required.

SURGICAL CORRECTION: GETTING ECTROPION SURGERY

In some cases, and depending on the underlying cause and issues at hand, surgery might be required to help a dog with ectropion.

During surgery, the veterinarian will tighten the lower eyelid and reposition it correctly.

In more intense cases, a skin graft might be necessary to help support the third eyelid.

Surgery will prevent corneal ulcers. Additionally, the Veterinary Ophthalmologist will be able to free pinched nerves during the surgical procedures.

The surgery can possibly be done at the primary vet, but might need to be done at an animal hospital.

Post surgery, ophthalmic antibiotics will be prescribed to prevent dogs infection of the eyes.

MEDICAL MANAGEMENT OF ECTROPION AT HOME

If your dog has been diagnosed with Ectropion, it is probably likely that they have been demonstrating abnormal behavior like pawing at their eye.

This is due to very dry eyes. Imagine never having an eyelid that fully covers your eye.

Pet parents can purchase eye drops to use to assist their dog. Lubricating eye drops or gel can be a huge relief for the reddened tissue that is more exposed to air.

PROGNOSIS FOR A DOG WITH ECTROPION

The prognosis for a dog with ectropion is good if the cornea has not been damaged.

Corneal damage can lead to perforation and vision loss.

If your dog has a mild case of ectropion, they might not experience any pain or irritation.

If the ectropion is more severe, they might require surgery to fix the problem.

After surgery, your dog should have a good prognosis and live a long, happy life with no issues.

Did you know that backyard breeders are breeding ‘EURO’ Great Danes that have Eyelid Ectropion? Check out more information here.: One Big Droopy Eyed Dog: Eyelid Ectropion in a Dog’s Eye
June 17, 2022

How Much Does a Great Dane Eat? The #1 Truth About the World’s Largest Dog Breed

The Great Dane is often called the world’s largest dog breed. They are a giant breed of dog that can weigh up to 200 pounds. But with that size comes a big appetite! So how much does a Great Dane eat, on average? And what do they eat?

HOW MUCH DOES A GREAT DANE EAT?

The average Great Dane will eat about four to eight cups of food per day. This amount can vary depending on the age, weight, and activity level of your dog.

Puppies and young dogs will generally eat more than adult dogs. And active dogs will usually eat more than less active dogs.

Giant breeds not only eat a lot of food daily, but they require a specific, nutrient dense diet to support their giant breed body.

Pet parents should know how much to feed their Great Danes, and also what type of ingredients are required for a proper diet.

GREAT DANE FEEDING CHART

If you have a Great Dane puppy, it can feel stressful to know if you are giving them enough food or how much to feed them.

Large breeds require a lot of food, but many do not need quite as much as dog owners think they need.

Keeping a Great Dane feeding chart on hand is helpful to know how much to feed in the general ballpark.

We suggest keeping in the general guidelines of the following Great Dane feeding chart:

*Note that these are general guidelines and you should always speak with your veterinarian about specific feeding recommendations for your dog.

You can check out the entire Great Dane Feeding Chart here.

GREAT DANE FEEDING CHART: READ MORE HERE

ADULT FOOD

INTAKE (DAILY)

Adult Great Dane Weight	Adult Great Dane Cups of Food
60-80 lbs	four to five cups
80-100 lbs	five to six cups
100-120 lbs	six to seven cups
120-140 lbs	seven to eight cups
140-160 lbs	seven to eight cups
160-180 lbs	eight to nine cups

Puppies will eat more frequently than adults. If your Great Dane is full grown, this Great Dane food chart should work as an average of how many cups a day of dry food they might consume. Some might eat more, and some might eat less.

You should always base your Great Danes diet off of how they look.

If your adult Great Dane is less active, you should lower the amount of your dog’s food as you very easily CAN give a Great Dane too much food. If they are an extremely active Great Dane, you might find that they are hungry. Give them a half cup more until you find what works for your dog’s eating habits.

Male Great Danes will typically eat more than a female Great Dane.

It takes time to learn how much to feed your specific Great Dane, but the rule of thumb is to never overfeed your Great Dane. You can always feed a Great Dane more food, but it is much harder to make big dogs lose weight once they have gained it.

Obesity in Great Danes: Fat Danes Face Serious Health Risks

PUPPY FOOD

Your Great Dane puppy should be on a large breed puppy food.

When it comes to Great Dane feeding, it is very important that your Great Dane eats the right food.

Large dogs need dog foods that support their growth, with not too many calories.

Many pet parents have been told not to feed puppy food, however that is an outdated practice.

PUPPY VS. ADULT FOOD

Veterinary guidance suggests that many dog food companies are formulating Great Dane puppy formulas exactly correct for your Great Dane to grow slowly into a healthy big dog.

Some large breed adult Great Dane food has too many calories for your Great Dane puppy.

Check out our resources for how much to feed as well as what is the best dog food to give your Great Dane puppy.

Is My Great Dane Puppy Too Small?
A Tasty Top: The Top 11 Foods to Feed a Great Dane
Should I Feed Grain Free?
Great Dane Not Eating- What to Do

CREATING A GOOD FEEDING SCHEDULE

If you are following a Great Dane feeding chart, working to get the best dog food you can for your Great Dane puppy and doing your best to make sure to keep your dog healthy, you are probably already on your way to making a Great Dane feeding schedule.

Creating a Schedule When You Bring Your Puppy Home

Since the Great Dane breed is predisposed to bloat, it is helpful to keep them on a schedule.

Bloat: Learn More Here

Large breed dogs should be fed small, frequent meals on a consistent feeding schedule.

Not only will this help with their digestion, but will also help you to better monitor their food intake.

A general rule of thumb is to divide the total daily recommended amount of food by the number of meals you plan to feed your dog.

For example, if your adult Great Dane needs six cups of dry food per day and you plan to feed them three times per day, each meal should be two cups of food.

If you are ever unsure about your Great Dane’s eating habits or how much to feed them, please consult with your veterinarian. They will be able to help you create a feeding schedule and offer guidance on how much food is appropriate for your dog.

OBESITY IN GREAT DANES

Fat Great Danes — Don’t Mistake Your Great Dane ‘Filling Out’ For Getting Fat!

So many people give their Great Dane WAY too much food.

Your Great Dane should eat dependent on how much exercise they receive.

If you cannot see the ribs of your Great Dane, they are probably overweight.

Dog breeds like the Great Dane are at such a high risk for disease like arthritis, hip dysplasia, and other joint disease that Great Dane owners should keep their Great Dane slim.

Arthritis in Great Danes

Adult Great Danes should have an hour of exercise a day, and puppies should have several shorter sessions of playtime throughout the day.

A good rule of thumb is that a dog’s energy output should exceed their intake.

If you are unsure if your Great Dane is at a healthy weight, check their rib line. You should be able to take your hand and feel the ribs on your Dane pup.

This does not mean that your Great Dane is ‘too thin’.

Is My Great Dane Too Skinny?

WHEN TO SWITCH FROM PUPPY FOOD TO ADULT FOOD

Your Great Dane puppy has growth plates in the long bones of their legs.

These growth plates are what will eventually turn into the Dane’s adult bones.

You want to be very careful not to put too much stress on these growth plates by overfeeding your Great Dane puppy or over exercising your Great Dane puppy.

What forms of exercise are best for a Great Dane?

The general rule of thumb is to switch your Great Dane pup to an adult food once they reach 100% of their expected full grown weight, which happens at the age of 2.

So, you should let your Great Dane puppy eat puppy food until they are 24 months and then you can switch them to adult Great Dane formula.

WHY WON’T MY GREAT DANE PUPPY EAT?

Sometimes, if your Great Dane puppy will not eat, it is actually your fault.

When we find that our puppy refuses to eat, we usually offer them more food.

This perpetuates the problem. If you constantly give your Great Dane puppy ‘bigger and better’, they will begin to hold out for what they want. In other words, a bowl of regular dog food will begin to look boring to them.

Picky Puppies

If your Great Dane puppy refuses to eat, they are probably not hungry.

Avoid giving them anything ‘fun’ on top of their dog food. This is a vicious cycle.

Although tempting, it can become an issue with Great Dane puppies.

Read more about how to handle a picky Great Dane puppy here.

MY GREAT DANE IS ALWAYS STARVING

If you have a Great Dane that is constantly starving, you might need to add some healthy fat into its diet.

Healthy fats might consist of:

Fish oil and omegas
Coconut oil
Avocado
Eggs

These are just a few examples of healthy fats that you could add into your Great Dane’s diet. Adding these healthy fats will help to fill them up and keep their coat shiny and healthy.

omega 7105acfb0b8053ecf181cfcb58ca10a5 — Our favorite Fish Oil for Great Danes: Health and Shine Salmon and Krill and Omega-3 Fish Oil. Use code HELLODANES10 for 10% off.

health and shine pump — Our favorite Fish Oil for Great Danes: Health and Shine Salmon and Krill and Omega-3 Fish Oil. Use code HELLODANES10 for 10% off.

GIVING SUPPLEMENTS TO A GREAT DANE

If your Great Dane eats a balanced diet, there is not all too much need for a ton of supplementation.

However, every Great Dane should be given a few items of additional support.

Depending on their age, different items are needed.

Using CBD for My Dog’s Pain
Supplements for Great Danes
Fish Oil for Great Danes

GREAT DANE PUPPIES AND SUPPLEMENTS

A Great Dane puppy should be given Buffered Esther Vitamin C to prevent Knuckling. Knuckling happens when a puppy’s bones haven’t yet strengthened and they fall over on their ‘pinky’ side.

Start your puppy on 500 mg, and work your way up to 1000 mg. This is one of the most important items you will give your puppy.

You can learn more about this condition here.

Is My Great Dane Puppy Knuckling?
How to Prevent Knuckling in Great Dane Puppies
Is My Great Dane Puppy Too Small?
Great Dane Puppy Growth Chart
How to Fix Knuckling in Great Danes

Great Dane puppies can also be given fish oil. Fish oil is a great fat for a Great Dane puppy because it helps with brain development and protects their joints.

ADULT GREAT DANE SUPPLEMENTS

As your Great Dane enters into adulthood, you might want to consider giving them a glucosamine supplement to help with any joint pain that they may experience. This is especially important if your Great Dane is showing any distress of their joints.

Additionally, it is very important to give your great dane a gut support. Choose a probiotic like this FortiFlora.

RED FLAGS FOR GREAT DANE DOG FOOD

Great Danes eat a lot of food. You want to make sure you are feeding the right food.

Red flags when Great Dane feeding include:

Grain free kibble
Kibble that is not formulated for large breed dogs
Feeding an adult Great Dane large breed puppy food or vice versa
‘Popular’ food with buzzwords or marketing schemes (read more here)
Kibble brands that lack research, canine education, studies, or science
Feeding a raw diet to a Great Dane puppy CAN be very challenging and should be done under the consult of a nutritionist. Raw food is very hard to balance and a Great Dane puppy NEEDS a balanced diet.

WHAT IS THE FOOD BILL GOING TO BE FOR MY GREAT DANE?

A Great Dane can cost anywhere from $70- $200 to feed per month.

This, of course, depends on the quality of food you are feeding and if you are supplementing.

The best way to find out is to speak with your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist.

How Much Do Great Danes Cost?

They will be able to help formulate a plan that is tailored specifically for your dog.

Remember, every dog is different and not all dogs will need the same things.

ADDING WET FOOD INTO A GREAT DANE DIET

Since every Great Dane carries the risk of bloating, adding wet food is always beneficial.

When you add wet food or raw food onto your Great Danes meal, make sure to include those calories into the amount you are feeding your Great Dane.

Health Risks in Great Danes
What is Bloat?
Can You Prevent Bloat?
Stomach Tacking: Pros and Cons
Bloat and Gut Health
The Scary Bloat Timeline

RAW FOOD DIET FOR A GREAT DANE

If you are choosing to go with Raw Feeding for Great Dane feeding, it can be an excellent choice for your dog.

Your dog’s stomach might tolerate raw food better than dry. A balanced premade like this one offers the security of having your meal balanced.

e commerce turkey — We Feed Raw provides complete mixes in a variety of proteins including Beef, Venison and Turkey.

If you are a new raw feeder, you should either choose a balanced raw product or seek the counsel of a certified nutritionist. Raw feeding can be very challenging when you are beginning.

Do not ever begin a Great Dane puppy on raw feeding by yourself. You must feed a Great Dane puppy a complete and balanced diet while they are growing. If your Great Dane eats an unbalanced raw diet, they will experience a tremendous amount of issues.

CHOOSING TO FREE FEED YOUR GREAT DANE

Some people like to ‘free feed’ a Great Dane. If so, make sure they are eating slow and not eating too much. You can use slow feeders, even when ‘free feeding’.

slow feeder dog bowls for large — PetDuro has creative ways to slow feed your dog in a standard slow feeder, an engagement slow feeder or a slow feeder licky mat.

PETDURO dog bowl slow feeder for small medium breed maze puzzle — PetDuro has creative ways to slow feed your dog in a standard slow feeder, an engagement slow feeder or a slow feeder licky mat.

If you want to leave food out all day instead of feeding them two meals or three meals a day, that is fine. However, you should still be intentional about how many cups a day you are giving to your Great Danes.

You should always know how much you feed a Great Dane in a specific day, even if you are choosing to leave the food out all day long.

Monitoring your Great Danes intake can help you keep track of their weight and keep them thin and healthy.

Great Danes are one of the most popular dog breeds in America. But before you bring home your very own, you should be prepared and know how to best feed a Great Dane.

June 17, 2022

12 Things You Didn’t Know About White Great Danes: Are White Great Danes Deaf and Blind?
Did you know that if your Great Dane has a solid white coat color it could have genetic health problems? Great Danes with white coats are known as Double Merles.

WHAT IS A DOUBLE MERLE GREAT DANE?

A Double Merle Great Dane is a Great Dane that has been bred by two dogs who both carry the dominant merle gene.

White Danes are produced from doubling up on the Merling gene, as happens in Harlequin x Harlequin breeding, Harlequin x Merle breeding or Merle x Merle breeding.

When two dogs with the merle gene are bred together, there is a one in four chance that the puppies will be born as a white coated dog. These white dogs are called Double Merle.

Their white coat color is indicative of multiple congenital defects.

DO ALL WHITE GREAT DANES HAVE HEALTH ISSUES?

Not all Double Merle dogs will have health issues.

Although a Great Dane’s coat is a great indicator of their overall health, some DM Great Danes can be healthy dogs.

Not every Great Dane that is born with a white coat color will experience blindness or be deaf.

However, a great majority of DM Great Danes will have health issues including sensory issues (blindness and deafness).

WHAT CAUSES HEALTH ISSUES IN A DOUBLE MERLE GREAT DANE?

The merle gene should not be bred with another merle gene.

Great Danes require extensive health testing to check for colors that each dog carries for prior to breeding. Otherwise, a breeder might end up with an albino dog.

Just because a dog does not have a merle coat, does not mean that it does not carry for the merle gene. All Great Dane dogs can carry for merle, which is why health testing is so important.

Reputable breeders will not breed their giant breed dog without ensuring that only one carries for a dominant gene of Merle.

BACKYARD BREEDING WHITE GREAT DANES

Unfortunately, bad breeding practices have plagued Great Dane dogs as well as other breeds.

Double Merle Great Danes have become more and more prevalent as breeding practices have become more lax.

Pure white Great Dane coat color is even being stated as a ‘rare Great Dane color‘.

This is a huge red flag. If you notice white puppies in a litter- know that these Great Danes are not ethically bred.

Although you might think that a breeder producing white Danes can still produce puppies that could make a great family pet, the heartbreak involved is not worth it.

The Great Dane breed is already predisposed to too many health concerns. Adding in merle deafness, blindness, and the other associated risks of a white coat is just not worth it.

Do not support any breeder who creates white Great Danes.

ADDITIONAL HEALTH CONCERNS FOR WHITE GREAT DANES

White Great Danes are not only normally blind and deaf, but they also have additional concerns.
1. Hip Dysplasia- This is a common health concern for all Great Danes but can be especially painful for aDouble Merle. Deafness and blindness can make it difficult to treat.
2. Elbow Dysplasia- This is another common orthopedic concern for Great Danes.
3. Cherry Eye- A third eyelid that becomes prolapsed and irritated.
4. Autoimmune Thyroiditis- Affects the thyroid gland and can cause weight gain, hair loss, and lethargy.
5. Skin Allergies/Sensitivities- White Great Danes are especially susceptible to skin allergies and sensitivities.
6. Skin Cancer- The risk of developing skin cancer is also increased in Great Danes with a white coat.
Double Merle Great Danes are beautiful dogs but come with a lot of risks. Before you decide to bring one home, please do your research and be prepared for a lifetime of special care. These dogs are not for everyone and their needs should be carefully considered.

ARE ALL WHITE DOGS CONSIDERED UNHEALTHY?

Not all white puppers are the same.

White Great Danes are the product of a dominant gene, resulting in a Double Merle. Alternatively, normal dog breeds with white coat colors are the result of a double recessive gene.

The difference? One of these can make your dog blind, while the other dogs remain healthy.

If you have a Great Dane puppy who is pure white, they are probably a product of a Double Merle breeding. You should be proactive about their health.

DOUBLE MERLE GREAT DANES AND BLINDNESS

Not all Great Danes who are white will be blind while they are puppies.

A white Great Dane puppy can develop blindness at birth, or they might develop blindness as they age.

Depending on the dog’s age, you can determine their eyesight by either taking them to the veterinarian or conducting at home tests.

If you notice that your White Great Dane has a harder time with obedience training, following you with their eyes, tracking toys or treats, or if they seem to be bumping into things- it is time for a vet visit.

These are all early signs of vision problems in Great Danes.

CATARACTS IN WHITE GREAT DANES

One of the most common eye problems in a Great Dane with vision problems, regardless of coat color, is cataracts.

Cataracts are a cloudy film that forms over the eye and can eventually lead to blindness.

The only way to remove cataracts is through surgery.

This surgery is expensive but can help improve your dog’s quality of life. Not treating cataracts can leave your dog blind.

If you notice that your White Great Dane is having trouble seeing, take them to the vet. Your vet can do an eye exam on your Great Dane to check for cataracs.

WHY ARE WHITE GREAT DANES DEAF?

Very commonly, a white Great Dane will have either partial or complete hearing loss.

This can be developed when your Great Dane is born, or develop over the lifetime of your Great Dane.

There are a few tests that can be conducted to test your Great Dane’s hearing.

The most common is the BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) test.

This test is painless and only takes a few minutes. It will determine if your Great Dane can hear low, medium, or high-pitched sounds.

If you are concerned about your Great Dane’s hearing, talk to your veterinarian.

USING AN E COLLAR TO TRAIN A BLIND OR DEAF GREAT DANE

One of the most powerful methods of training a Great Dane with vision or hearing impairments is through the use of an e collar.

Since a blind or deaf Great Dane cannot hear or see, they will rely heavily on their sense of smell and their sense of touch.

Using an e collar can help your Great Dane feel the communication through stimulation (not shock!)

This form of training will not only help your Great Dane navigate through the world appropriately, but also keep them safe.

You will NEED a means of communicating with your Great Dane, and being able to use an e collar to do so is the most ethical and effective way of doing so.

WHITE GREAT DANES AND ALLERGIES

White Great Danes are especially susceptible to skin allergies and sensitivities.

The most common allergies are environmental, such as dust, pollen, and grass.

GREAT DANE SKIN ISSUES

Environmental allergies can cause your Great Dane to have itchy skin, hot spots, and hair loss.

Diet plays a huge role in allergies of any Great Danes. Choose a food that is appropriate for a growing or adult Great Dane that will help ease their itchy or dry skin.

Great Dane: Puppy vs. Adult Food
A Tasty Top: The Top 11 Foods to Feed a Great Dane
Should I Feed Grain Free?
Adding CBD Into Your Great Dane’s Diet
Supplements for Great Danes
Fish Oil for Great Danes
Great Dane Not Eating- What to Do

EAR INFECTIONS IN A WHITE GREAT DANE

If you have a Great Dane that is prone to ear infections, you know what a hassle they can be.

Not only are they painful for your dog, but they can also be difficult to treat.

Ear Infections in Great Danes

There are a few things you can do to help prevent ear infections in your Great Dane.

First, make sure you are cleaning their ears regularly. This will help remove any dirt or debris that could cause an infection.

Second, try using an ear cleaner that is specifically designed for dogs. We swear by the product called Xymox, which has proven time and time again to clear up any ear infection.

Xymox is our absolute FAVORITE cleanser if your Great Dane has yeast or inflammation in its ears.

Third, if your Great Dane is going swimming, make sure you dry their ears out completely afterwards.

If you are doing all of these things and your Great Dane STILL gets ear infections, talk to your vet. They may prescribe a special medication to help prevent future problems.

ARE HARLEQUIN GREAT DANES THE SAME AS A DOUBLE MERLE GREAT DANE?

Many people assume that a white Great Dane is the same as a Harlequin Great Dane.

This is not true!

A Harlequin Great Dane does not carry the same health issues that a white Great Dane does.

In fact, Harlequin Great Danes are one of the 7 breed standard colors approved by the National Breed Club.

Blue Great Danes
Mantle Great Danes
Black Great Danes
Harlequin Great Danes
Colors of Great Danes

The Great Dane Club of America shares standards for the Great Dane breed, which can be very fun to examine. In these standards, the Great Dane Club discusses the American Kennel Club ‘standard’ for a Harlequin Great Dane.

The Issue with the AKC

If you are considering Great Dane rescue of a white Great Dane, know that every gentle giant deserves a loving home. These dogs can make for a best friend, loving companion and great family member. But, be prepared for the health issues and associated fees that your pup might bring with it. Preparation is always key to success.

READ MORE ABOUT DOUBLE MERLE GREAT DANES: 12 Things You Didn’t Know About White Great Danes: Are White Great Danes Deaf and Blind?

READ MORE:

Is My Great Dane Being Aggressive or Playing?
June 16, 2022
The Magnificent Harlequin Great Dane
The Harlequin Great Dane is not only one of the cutest dog’s in the world, it’s one of the largest too! Popular for being a Gentle Giant, the Harlequin will rock your world.

The colors of Great Danes are:
1. Black (Black Great Danes)
2. Mantle (Mantle Great Danes)
3. Harlequin (Harlequin Great Danes)
4. Merle
5. Fawn (FAWN GREAT DANES)
6. Brindle (BRINDLE GREAT DANES)
7. Blue (Blue Great Danes)
Off standard colors include Double Merle Great Danes, which are White Great Danes with predisposed health conditions. Off standard colors that are not approved to be in the show ring are typically bred without health testing. (OFF STANDARD GREAT DANES) Read more about the colors of Great Danes here.

Harlequin Great Danes are one of the most special Great Dane colors. Until you’ve had a Harlequin Great Dane puppy crawling on your lap, you really haven’t even lived!

HARLEQUIN GREAT DANE BREED

Harlequin Great Dane puppies are bred when two Great Dane parents both have the merle gene.

This can happen when two Harlequin Great Danes breed together or a Harlequin Great Dane breeds with a Merle Great Dane.

But, believe it or not other Great Danes (Blue, Black, Fawn, Mantle, Brindle) can also produce Harlequin Great Dane puppies, if they carry for the merle gene.

WHAT IS A HARLEQUIN GREAT DANE?

A Harlequin pattern is defined as a solid color with irregular patches of another color.

In the Great Dane world, the Harlequin is defined as a pure white coat with black patches or pale gray patches or both. The gray patches might have somewhat of a merle pattern.

The pattern is not symmetrical and usually has more white than black. The tail tip can be either black or white.

The Harlequin coat can have various Harlequin coat patterns to them. Harlequin coat pattern might have big black torn patches or merle patches.

OTHER GREAT DANE COAT COLORS

The Great Dane Club of America and the AKC recognize 7 Great Dane colors:
1. Black
2. Blue
3. Fawn
4. Harlequin
5. Mantle
6. Merle
7. Brindle
The colors Harlequin and Merle are connected because a Harlequin Great Dane must have one Merle parent to produce the desired coloration.

A Harlequin Great Dane dog is considered one of the rarest Great Dane colors because it is so striking and it can be hard to produce a breed standard Harlequin.

Blue Great Danes
Mantle Great Danes
14 Exciting Things about Black Great Danes
Miniature Great Danes: The Pocket Size Version
Colors of Great Danes
Harlequin Great Danes
Brindle Great Danes
Fawn Great Danes

WHAT IS A ‘BREED STANDARD’ HARLEQUIN GREAT DANE?

Breed standard is what a Harlequin Great Dane should look like, according to the ‘right’ description.

Although a range of patterns can exist in a Harlequin puppy, there are not supposed to be so few patches that the Harlequin Great Dane is pure white, and so many black patches that the white can not be seen.

When choosing a Harlequin Great Dane, the breeder you choose is so important. Check out our registry for breeders you can trust.

It is also undesireable for a Harlequin Great Dane to have torn black patches, which means the black hairs are not well defined or have white marks within them. Instead, the Harlequin pattern should have solid black patches.

It is preferred that a Harlequin Great Dane has a white neck. It is okay if a Harlequin Great Dane has patches of gray coat.

HARLEQUIN GREAT DANES TEMPERAMENT

For being one of the world’s largest dog breed, Harlequin Great Danes are extremely docile and gentle.

Many people look to get a Great Dane puppy because they are gentle giants, however they do still require serious training.

Big dogs are just that- BIG! So, with their size comes a responsibility to make sure that they are trained.

When socialized as puppies, Harlequin dogs are typically a great family pet, great with children and other dogs, can be a bit stubborn (like most dogs), and very easy to fall in love with.

HARLEQUIN GREAT DANE PUPPIES

Harlequin puppies are some of the absolute cutest pups. From their little pink nose and unique coat to their blue eyes- it’s very hard to not fall in love with them.

Their harlequin color draws a lot of attention so if you are a first time dog owner be ready for the ‘horse’ comments!

Things you will need for Harlequin puppies:

A Crate– crate training is an absolute must for a Great Dane puppy. Crate training helps to teach your puppy independence and keeps them out of trouble when you are not able to watch them.

HOW TO FIND THE BEST CRATE FOR A GREAT DANE

Food and Water Bowls– get bowls that are big enough for your puppy. If your Harlequin Great Dane puppy is eating too fast, you might want to consider getting them a slow feeder which can help to prevent them from eating too fast (and can create stomach issues and lead to bloat).

Nail Filing Tools: Keeping your Harlequin Great Danes nails short is one of the biggest things you can do to help their joints stay healthy. It also prevents feet issues when they do not have long nails. You can choose between clippers or a Dremel.

Puppy Food: Great Danes require specific food that is formulated to their giant growth and different than other breeds. Find and commit to a puppy formula that is suitable for your Great Dane.

HARLEQUIN GREAT DANES AND THEIR HEALTH ISSUES

Like all Great Danes, Harlequin Great Danes face health issues that not all other dogs face.

JOINT ISSUES

Harlequin Great Danes are more predisposed to joint disease than smaller dog breeds.

Arthritis, hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are all common joint issues in Harlequin Great Danes.

To help prevent these issues, it is important to keep your Harlequin Great Dane at a healthy weight and to not allow them to jump on and off of furniture.

It is also important to keep their nails short so they do not put too much pressure on their joints.

Keep your Great Dane on a high quality joint support, like Dasuquin.

HEART DISEASE

Heart disease is also a common health issue in Harlequin Great Danes.

The most common form of heart disease in Harlequin Great Danes is dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). DCM is a condition where the heart muscle becomes thin and weakens, causing the heart to not pump efficiently.

Symptoms of DCM can include coughing, exercise intolerance, fainting and an enlarged heart.

To help prevent heart disease in your Harlequin Great Dane, it is important to feed them a high quality diet and to take them to the vet for regular check-ups.

CANCER

Cancer is also a common health issue in Harlequin Great Danes.

The most common type of cancer in Harlequin Great Danes is osteosarcoma, which is a bone cancer. Other types of cancer that Harlequin Great Danes can get include lymphoma, mast cell tumors and hemangiosarcoma.

There is no sure way to prevent cancer in Harlequin Great Danes, but it is important to take them to the vet for regular check-ups and to be aware of any changes in their health.

BLOAT

Bloat is a condition that can occur in all dogs, but is more common in deep chested breeds like the Harlequin Great Dane.

Bloat occurs when the stomach fill with gas and twists, cutting off blood flow to the stomach. Bloat is a medical emergency and can be fatal if not treated immediately.

Symptoms of bloat include a distended abdomen, drooling, restlessness and pacing, panting and an inability to vomit.

If you think your dog is bloated, it is important to take them to the vet immediately.

To help prevent bloat, it is important to feed your Harlequin Great Dane several small meals a day instead of one large meal. You should also prioritize gut health, as gut health is related to bloat.

WHAT IS A DOUBLE MERLE GREAT DANE?

Double Merles are caused when two Harlequin Great Danes, two Merle Great Danes, or one of each (OR any Great Danes that carry the merle gene) are bred together.

When this breeding takes place, the puppies have a one in four chance of being double merles.

A Double Merle Great Dane is a Great Dane with two of the merle gene- and this can cause serious issues.

Double Merle Great Danes

The coat color of these dogs is usually solid white and they typically have either both blue eyes or one blue eye. Although standard, healthy Harlequin dogs can have blue eyes at birth, they do not have the same ‘hollow’ blue eyes as a Double Merle. Also, normally a Harlequin will lose its blue eyes as it grows up. However, just because a dog has blue eyes does not mean it is a DM.

A Double Merle Great Dane is faced with health issues from the bat. They are typically somewhat to completely blind and deaf, face an abundance of sensory issues, are extremely predisposed to cancer, joint issues, bloat and other health concerns and are generally very anxious in temperament.

Any breeder who is breeding together two Harlequin dogs should be stopped immediately as it is of the detriment of these poor dogs.

Most breeders who are ethical and considerate will health test their dogs before breeding any dogs together to ensure that their dog does not carry the merle gene if being bred to a Harlequin or Merle Great Dane.

Unfortunately, many breeders do not care about the dogs being bred and proceed to breed and produce these issues.

HOW MUCH DO HARLEQUIN DOGS COST?

When looking for a Great Dane, cheaper is not always better, but neither is more expensive. Harlequin Great Danes cost anywhere from $500-$3000.

HOW MUCH DO GREAT DANES COST?

In general, the Harlequin coat color does tend to be one of the more expensive of all of the Great Danes.

The beautiful coat makes many people want them.

When looking for a Great Dane, do not fall for the following scams:
1. If your breeder says that they are ‘AKC’ Dogs. Being apart of the American Kennel Club does not mean you are getting a healthy Great Dane, nor does it mean you should or shouldn’t pay more for the Great Dane. (AKC Papers Are Not Enough)
2. If your breeder states you are getting a ‘Blue Harlequin’ or any other odd type of Harlequin gene. This is just a fancy way of stating that your dog is a mixed breed and not a standard Great Dane.
3. If your breeder is breeding two dogs together that both have the merle gene. Look for ‘spot to spot’ breeding, but also ask for health tests to confirm. (Double Merle Great Danes)
4. If your breeder states that you are getting a ‘Euro’ Great Dane. This is just another way of stating that you are getting a ‘Fat’ Great Dane. (Euro Danes: A Big, Droopy Problem)
Read more about ‘Euro’ Great Danes here.

Instead, look for breeders who:
1. Health test their dogs using OFA Health testing. (What is OFA Health Testing?)
2. Socialize their dogs and puppies from a young age. (Puppy Culture: A Way to Socialize from the Start)
3. Genetically test the coat color of each dog they breed to ensure that they are producing healthy puppies.
4. Provide you with lifetime dog support and help.
5. Helps you to navigate the new dog world by educating you on what it means to own a Harlequin Dane.
Being a new dog parent can feel overwhelming, but Harlequin Great Danes are some of the best.

Enjoy every moment, your puppy will soon be a dog.

READ MORE:

Is My Great Dane Being Aggressive or Playing?
Great Dane Not Eating – What to Do
Great Dane Farts: The Funniest Collection of Photos and Videos on the Internet
The Best Collars for Great Danes
Blue Great Danes – Facts, Photos, and Care
How to Crate Train a Great Dane Puppy
7 Best Nail Clippers for Great Danes
Find a Breeder
How to Find a Crate
June 16, 2022
Ibuprofen Poisoning in Dogs: Acting Quickly if Your Dog is in Danger
Ibuprofen poisoning in dogs is a huge concern. Ibuprofen toxicity in dogs should be considered a medical emergency and you should get to the veterinarian immediately.

IBUPROFEN POISONING IN DOGS: IS IBUPROFEN TOXIC TO DOGS?

If you think your dog has ingested ibuprofen, it is important to seek veterinary help immediately. Ibuprofen is a medication that is used to treat pain and inflammation in humans, but it can be very dangerous for dogs. In this blog post, we will discuss the signs of ibuprofen poisoning in dogs and what you should do if you believe your dog has ingested this medication.

Ibuprofen is extremely toxic to dogs and can cause all sorts of problems like kidney failure, ulcers, and even death.

WHAT IS IBUPROFEN?

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to treat pain and inflammation in humans. Ibuprofen belongs to a class of drugs called COX-inhibitors and works by inhibiting the COX enzymes which are responsible for producing prostaglandins.

Ibuprofen is commonly used in humans for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis, menstrual cramps, and headaches. Ibuprofen is available over-the-counter in a variety of forms including tablets, capsules, gels, creams, and liquids.

While ibuprofen is an effective medication for humans, it or any other human nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drug should never be given to dogs.

WHAT IS IBUPROFEN TOXICITY?

Ibuprofen poisoning happens when a dog ingested ibuprofen. Dogs cannot eat any amount of ibuprofen, so even just one pill can be a toxic dose.

Some pet owners give their dogs ibuprofen before seeking the consult of their family veterinarian, thinking it will help their dog with pain. Ibuprofen, however, should not be used for dogs and their pain relief. Any dose ingested can be a toxic amount and will only worsen their pain.

Unfortunately, ibuprofen poisoning will cause severe symptoms if you do not seek veterinary care and veterinary attention immediately.

THE SYMPTOMS OF IBUPROFEN POISONING

The clinical signs of ibuprofen poisoning in dogs can include:
1. Vomiting
2. Diarrhea
3. Lethargy
4. Depression
5. Anorexia
6. Panting
7. Excessive thirst or urination
8. Abdominal pain
9. Gray gums (caused by lack of blood flow)
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOUR DOG EATS IBUPROFEN?

If your dog has eaten ibuprofen it is likely experiencing ibuprofen toxicity. Ibuprofen toxicity in dogs can happen within hours and can be fatal if not treated immediately. If you think your dog has ingested ibuprofen, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) at (888) 426-4435. The ASPCA Poison Control Center will help you will steps you can take while you seek veterinary attention. Calling the Poison Control Center should not replace seeking veterinary attention, unless Poison Control states otherwise.

Ibuprofen is extremely dangerous for dogs and can cause death if not treated immediately, so it is crucial to act fast.

HOW WILL AN EMERGENCY VETERINARIAN DIAGNOSE IBUPROFEN POISONING?

If your dog has experienced ibuprofen ingestion, you should take your dog to the vet immediately.

The veterinarian will examine all clinical signs in your dog, evaluate the dose ingested, and create a plan of action.

Depending on the condition of your dog, pet owners can expect some of the following upon arrival to the veterinarian if their dog ate ibuprofen:
1. Blood work will be conducted to check for red blood cell count and organ function
2. Check for neurological symptoms
3. Check for kidney damage
4. Provide Intravenous fluids or IV fluids
5. Induce vomiting
HOW IS IBUPROFEN INGESTION TREATED?

Treatment of dog ibuprofen intake depends on when the dog ingested the pills, the dog’s weight, age and condition and whether the dog is having active, adverse reactions to the ibuprofen poisoning.

INDUCED VOMITING WHEN DOG ATE IBUPROFEN

If the dog ate Ibuprofen within a few hours, the veterinarian will induce vomiting. Inducing vomiting will help to get the toxic dose of Ibuprofen out of the dogs system which, if left, leaves the dog at a higher risk of issues.

Pet owners should never use hydrogen peroxide or activated charcoal at home to get Ibuprofen out of their dog’s body.

KIDNEY DAMAGE FROM IBUPROFEN POISONING

Hospitalization may be required to check for kidney function and kidney damage. Blood work will be conducted if there is a suspicion for renal blood flow.

If the dog is experiencing renal failure, the veterinarian will provide intensive care and monitor the dog’s progress.

CAN DOGS TAKE HUMAN ANTIBIOTICS?
GREAT DANE DRY SKIN

Intravenous fluids or IV fluids are given to help flush the toxins out of the system and maintain hydration. In order to maintain renal blood flow and prevent blood clotting, it is important that your dog remain in the hospital until released.

The veterinarian may also prescribe medications to protect the stomach lining and reduce inflammation which can occur with renal failure.

Possible surgical intervention may be required depending on how much damage has been done.

STOMACH ISSUES WHEN DOG ATE IBUPROFEN

Ibuprofen can cause issues of the gastrointestinal tract like stomach ulcers, decreased appetite, gastrointestinal ulceration, or gastric ulcers.

If your dog ate Ibuprofen and is experiencing gastrointestinal tract upset, there is a higher risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and perforation.

The veterinarian will likely prescribe a medication to help protect the stomach lining as well as other medications to help with pain and inflammation. The priority will be to protect the gastrointestinal system and keep the digestive acids happy.

Again, hydrogen peroxide and activated charcoal should not be used at home, as they can complicate treatment.

BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS FOR DOGS IBUPROFEN POISONING

If your dog ate Ibuprofen and now has a low blood count, they might need to do a blood transfusion.

The blood transfusion will be done in correspondence with fluid therapy to keep your dog hydrated.

SAFE MEDICATION FOR DOGS

If your dog has pain or is in need of pain relief, do not use Ibuprofen as it has many toxic effects.

Human medications are not always safe for our pets.

Instead, choose a safe pain reliever for dogs that is prescribed from your veterinarian or consider using CBD.

CBD for Dog’s Pain
7 Uses of CBD

If you have any questions about what medications are safe for your dog, always consult with your veterinarian.

If your dog has ingested Ibuprofen, avoid giving them activated charcoal, call poison control and seek veterinary attention as quickly as possible.
June 15, 2022
The 7 Best Dog Nail Clippers: Great Dane Toenail Problems

Great Dane toenail problems: broken toenails, infected feet, or worse. If you’ve stumbled upon this page you’re probably having an issue with your Great Dane’s toenails.

Great Dane Toenail Problems: Why Do Great Dane’s Nails Need Trimmed?

Great Dane’s nails need trimmed regularly, despite it being a common issue with pet owners.

Dog’s nails can develop all sorts of problems when grown too long. Long nails can create infection, conformation issues and pain.

Overgrown nails are not a fun problem to deal with. So, if you have a big dog, you should be proactive at finding the right toe nail clippers for dogs that work for you and your dog’s nails.

Large Clippers for Large Dogs Nails

Large dogs need larger nail clippers that will be able to cut through thicker nails.

You might not be able to use the same grooming tool with a small breed dogs nails as you will with your Great dane’s nails. Be sure you are using adult dog nail clippers.

Large breed dogs are just that: large! With that, dog owners have a responsibility to these fun, thick nails.

Millers Forge Nail Trimmer for Great Danes

Here is one of our recommended dog nail clippers. The first grooming tool we find best if you’re looking for a nail trimmer for your Great Dane is the Millers Forge Nail Trimmer.

These nail clippers are great for Great Dane’s paws as they are able to cut through tough nails. The Miller Forge blades stay sharp and most dogs tolerate this nail clipper very well.

When used with large breed dogs, the safety guard comes in handy as it helps dog owners protect the dog’s quick from getting cut.

Dog owners also report that this nail clipper does not break easily, which we know is a must for Great Danes.

Safari Professional Nail Clipper for Great Dane’s nails

Next up is the highly rated Safari Professional nail clipper.

This nail clipper is good on tough nails and will work to get large dog nails short and clean.

The scissor style clippers are helpful when you’re trying to get your dog’s nails trimmed by yourself as we all know nail trimming is never an easy chore.

The sharp blades are not something to worry about as the nail file comes with a safety stop that allows you to get the dog nails clipped without pain.

Boshel Safety Guard Nail Clippers

The Boshel Safety Guard Great Dane Nail Clippers are a great choice of dog nail clippers.

The Boshel Great Dane nail clippers have stainless steel blades, but that does not mean it is going to hurt your dog.

With an easy grip and safety lock, pet parents say that they feel comfortable using these to trim their dogs nails.

Also, there is a file attached on the back of this dog nail clipper, so you can file down any loose ends after you’re done.

These nail clippers are strong and sturdy for a Great Dane.

If you are looking for nail clippers that have

Gopets Nail Clippers

Gopets Dog Nail Clippers are adjustable nail clippers, which means you can adjust them to the length of nail that your Great Dane has.

The benefit of the Gopets Nail Clippers is that you don’t have to worry about hurting them or making them bleed when trying to get your Great Dane to sit still for trimming.

These Great Dane nail clippers are a great choice for any parent trying to trim the nails of their Great Dane at home.

GoPets Dog Nail Trimmer

Epica Nail Trimmer for Great Dane Nails

The Epica Nail Trimmer is one of the most popular nail trimmers for Great Dane nails.

These nail trimmers have sharp blades and are scissor clippers.

If you have a Great Dane you know that some Great Danes are afraid of nail trimming as well as loud sounds, so the discrete scissor style clippers are helpful when it comes to a grooming tool. They are the perfect dog nail clippers for scared dogs.

If you notice that during nail trimming your Great Dane’s nails are extremely thick, you might want to pursue this dog nail clipper, as it has been said that they have very sharp blades compared to others.

Casfuy Dog Nail Grinder

The Casfuy Dog Nail Grinder is a dog nail grinder that comes at a more affordable price.

The Casfuy Dog Nail Grinder is, unlike nail clippers, more of a dremel tool.

If sharp edges of a nail file make you uneasy, you might prefer the grinder to a standard nail clipper.

Most dogs can get used to a grinder, but many dogs might need some time and patience with the sound of it.

Start with one paw at a time to prevent over trimming and prevent your dog from getting stressed out from the tool.

You will notice your dog’s nails quickly getting shorter with a dog nail grinder.

Standard Dremel Tool

If you know that you prefer a nail grinder over nail clippers for your Great Dane, but aren’t sure which dog nail grinder is best, you might be interested in a standard Dremel tool.

Although it is not designed to be used on dogs, we believe it is the best nail grinder as it has the power for a Great Dane’s nails and will make nail clipping so much easier.

When it comes to nail grinders, big dogs need big tools. And, what is more powerful for your dogs nails than a Dremel power tool?

If you are worried about your dog allowing you to use the Dremel, just go slowly and only do one nail at a time. Use lots of treats and reward your dog so that they don’t associate the sound of the tool with anything negative.

Keep a good grip on both your dog’s nails and any nail grinders so that you grind only your dog’s nail.

You might be surprised that your Great Dane doesn’t mind the nail clipping at all.

First Aid for a Bleeding Dog’s Nails

If you used nail clippers or a nail grinder and your dog’s nail is bleeding, don’t worry.

Dogs nails have something called a ‘quick’ inside of it, which should not be trimmed with either traditional clippers or a dremel.

However, if you do touch that part of the nail on accident, you shouldn’t panic. Dogs might flinch or even yelp, but it will not hurt them or their nails in the long run.

You can use this product, called Kwik Stop, to help the bleeding stop on your dog quicker.

Both you and your dog will be happier once the nail has stopped bleeding!

Going to a Grooming Salon with Your Great Dane

If you are completely uncomfortable for any reason to trim your dog’s nails, you should find a professional groomer in your area that can provide regular groomings.

Any dog needs to have their nails trimmed with either nail clippers or a grinder regularly.

Nail clipping should be done often so that their nail does not ever touch the ground.

The only downside of using a Nail Groomer is that you might not be able to take your dog as often as you’d like their nails to be clipped.

Sometimes, your local pet store will also provide you with help to get your Great Dane groomed and even show you how to use the nail clippers if you need help.

Getting Started with Your Great Dane

It isn’t always easy to have a Great Dane, but with all dogs comes dog responsibility.

There are a ton of Great Dane nail clippers out there to make your life easier while working on getting those nails shorter.

Good luck!

READ MORE:

The 2 Sided Debate: Great Dane Ear Cropping

June 15, 2022
Housebreaking Great Dane Puppies: 10 Realistic Action Steps

Housebreaking Great Dane puppies means a giant size amount of pee and usually stress. But Great Dane puppies are quick learners (sometimes) and owners can pull some fast ones on them to get them house trained in no time.

If you’re the proud owner of a Great Dane puppy, then you know just how adorable and sweet they can be. But like all puppies, they need to be housebroken in order to learn proper bathroom etiquette. In this blog post, we will provide you with the ultimate guide on how to housebreak your Great Dane puppy quickly and effectively!

HOUSEBREAKING GREAT DANE PUPPIES: THE GREAT DANE POTTY TRAINING PROCESS

Potty training is never easy , but it can be especially challenging depending on your Great Dane. They are one of the largest dog breeds and can be quite stubborn, so it’s important to be patient and consistent when teaching them where to relieve themselves. The process will take some time and patience, but we promise it’ll be worth it in the end!

CRATE TRAINING YOUR GREAT DANE PUPPY

The first thing we recommend with your new puppy is crate training them.

Training your Great Dane puppy with a crate allows them to have their own space that is just for them. It’s important to make sure that the crate is not too big or too small – you want them to be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but you don’t want it to be so spacious that they can use one end as a bathroom.

How to Crate Train a Great Dane Puppy
Crate Training: The Best Crates for Great Danes

You’ll begin to train your pup with a crate the day they come home. You never want your puppy to be anxious or fearful in the crate. It might take time for them to enjoy being in the crate by themselves, but training them to enjoy it will significantly help the potty training process.

Shop the best crate for Great Danes on Chewys

USING AN XPEN TO CRATE TRAIN

Use an Xpen to create an area where your Great Dane can play, walk around and have some room.

Put the crate in the room and let your Dane play for a little while. Sit with them and make sure that this area is a positive space.

Keep the crate door open so that they can go in and out. You can make them want to walk inside by putting fun things in the crate, like toys or treats.

You will be surprised that eventually your pup will venture inside the crate on its own and consider it their own designated area for rest.

Shop for this Xpen on Amazon.

THE BEST CRATE FOR A GREAT DANE PUPPY

If you are looking to get your pup potty trained, you want to make sure you get the right crate.

Great Danes grow very quickly so you want to get a crate that will be big enough for them as they grow.

However, giving any dog a space that feels overwhelming will create anxiety. Additionally, puppies usually do not potty where they sleep, so you want to make their crate as small as possible without making them feel cramped.

A great way to do this is to buy a crate that has a divider. This way, you can make the space smaller when they are younger and gradually make it bigger as they age. Otherwise, your puppy might use the front of the crate to sleep and the back of the crate as a bathroom area.

The Best Crate for a Great Dane Puppy: Click Here

SHOULD I USE POTTY PADS TO POTTY TRAIN MY GREAT DANE?

It is not recommended to potty train your Great Dane with potty pads. The reason potty pads are looked down against is that although accidents happen, pee pads can encourage your Great Dane to have accidents inside.

Your pup might start to associate the pee pad with peeing inside and begin to have accidents in the house without even knowing it is the wrong place.

Stay away from pee pads as much as you can while working on Great Dane potty training.

SHOULD YOU PUNISH A GREAT DANE PUPPY WHEN THEY HAVE AN ACCIDENT INSIDE?

No puppy should be ‘punished’ when they have accidents.

Your pup is experiencing so many new things all at once and pet owners should be patient.

Accidents happen all the time with puppies.

Never push your puppy’s nose into the pee. Your puppy will just be confused and have no idea what they did wrong.

TIME OUTS FOR A PUPPY HAVING AN ACCIDENT INSIDE

Some pet parents give ‘timeouts’ for puppies having accidents in the house while potty training.

It is crucial to know that at such a young age, your puppy did not know that they went pee in the wrong spot.

Giving them a timeout after they pee will likely just confuse them and begin to cause them to associate their crate with something negative.

WHAT SHOULD I DO WHEN MY GREAT DANE HAS AN ACCIDENT?

If you are working hard to potty train and your puppy goes to the bathroom in the house, the first thing you should do is immediately take them outside to go potty.

Find a designated bathroom area outside and wait until your puppy goes potty.

Most puppies will begin to associate these moments with quickly being taken outside after each accident and house training will begin to ‘click’.

USING A BELL TO POTTY TRAIN MY GREAT DANE PUPPY

Using a bell for dogs who are potty training can be a great strategy.

If your puppy is ready to go to the bathroom, take them to the door of the house that leads to the potty space you want them to use.

Hang a bell on the door and before leaving the house, hit the bell with your hand or the hand of your Great Dane.

Then, go outside and take your puppy to go potty in the same spot each time. You are training your puppy to go potty outside just by continuing to practice this routine.

Soon, your puppy will start to realize that whenever they hit the bell the door will open and they can go outside to go to the bathroom.

You can purchase a potty training bell here, on Amazon.

USING POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT WHEN POTTY TRAINING A GREAT DANE

Using positive reinforcement is crucial when potty training Great Danes.

This form of training means that you praise your Dane when they go to the bathroom in the right spot.

Some dogs are highly motivated by food and some are more motivated by praise.

Training Mistakes
Best Training Treats for Great Dane Puppies
Why is Leash Training so Hard?
5 Leash Training Tips

Whether you are using food for your puppy or praise for your puppy, make it a very big deal when they potty outside!

USING TREATS WHEN POTTY TRAINING A GREAT DANE

We recommend keeping treats on you while Great Dane potty training.

You don’t want to miss out on an opportunity to reward and praise your puppy for going potty in the right spot.

We recommend using this treat bag, which you can read our full review here.

Day Pouch Treat Bag Review

The Olly Backcountry treat pouch for Great Danes

The Olly smaller treat pouch

Most Great Danes will do just about anything for treats, so stock up while potty training.

Our favorites are here:

Code HELLODANES10 for 10% off all Dr. Harveys products

USING BABY GATES WHILE POTTY TRAINING A GREAT DANE

Your house is going to have some puppy damage while you are getting your puppy potty trained.

It is smart in the early days of potty training your Great Dane to keep baby gates up in your house.

This not only keeps your puppy safe from anything you don’t want them to get into, but also helps to contain the mess to one area.

You can find baby gates here, on Amazon.

KEEPING A SCHEDULE WHILE GREAT DANE POTTY TRAINING

As much as possible, put your puppy on a regular schedule.

This will help them learn when it is time to go and make potty training easier for both of you.

A good rule of thumb is taking your puppy out first thing in the morning, after every meal, before bedtime, and anytime they have been playing or napping.

Schedule for Bringing Home a Great Dane Puppy

If you notice that you are seeing more pee accidents, increase the potty breaks.

POTTY TRAINING A GREAT DANE PUPPY WHEN YOU WORK

If you work full time, there are a few things to keep in mind for potty training your Great Dane.

The first consideration is that you are most likely going to need to hire a dog walker or dog sitter to come let your puppy out at regular intervals throughout the day.

Great Dane pup, Maysie, standing

Great Danes are going to need to use the bathroom throughout the day while house training.

A Great Dane puppy will not be able to wait all day while you are at work for a potty break.

PROVIDING PLAY TIME AND ENRICHMENT FOR A GREAT DANE PUPPY

Allowing play time and interaction with other dogs is crucial for your Great Dane pup.

Your puppy can watch how other dogs socialize and interact and pick up on cues. This is why it is super important that you pick closely who you want your dog to play with while they are still impressionable and young.

Puppy Socialization Guide
Puppy Training: 5 Mistakes in Training
Your Puppy is Bored

Keeping your puppy socialized doesn’t always mean putting them in a dog park and allowing them to play with every dog in the neighborhood.

You can also provide socialization opportunities by taking your puppy to parks and letting them watch other dogs, going on walks in the neighborhood, and set up play dates with dog friends.

POTTY TRAINING A GREAT DANE PUPPY CAN BE EASY

With a little bit of patience and consistency, potty training a dog does not have to ruin your house or cause stress on you and your family.

Start potty training right away and be consistent with your pup.

It will take time and patience but soon will be a blurb in the road.

June 15, 2022
WHAT TEMPERATURE IS IDEAL FOR GREAT DANE? GREAT DANE TEMPERATURE AND WEATHER REQUIREMENTS
Great Dane temperature and weather requirements are not that much different than those of other breeds.

What is the ideal temperature for a Great Dane? This is a question that many people have, as this breed of dog is known to be susceptible to extreme temperatures.

Let’s discuss what factors you need to consider when determining the ideal temperature for your Great Dane and provide some tips on how to keep them comfortable.

GREAT DANE TEMPERATURE AND WEATHER REQUIREMENTS

Great Danes are large dog breeds that do NOT do wonderful in hot weather and they also do not do wonderful in cold weather.

BUT… DON’T WORRY!

That doesn’t mean that if you are a dog owner of a Great Dane that you have to panic!

Large dogs can adjust to a hot summer day or a cold climate with just a few tweaks.

HOW DO LARGE DOGS HANDLE COLD WEATHER?

There are different types of cold weather and each type can have an effect on your large dog.

Dogs that are short haired like Great Danes will feel the cold much quicker than dogs with a longer coat. Since they have short coats and a single coat with no layer of thick fur, they might need a more insulating layer of warm clothes while playing outdoors in order to regulate body temperature.

Great Dane temperature tolerance can even vary from dog to dog!

DOG COATS FOR COLD WEATHER

The first thing you need to do is make sure that your Great Dane has a good quality Dog Coat or Dog Jacket that will protect itself from the elements.

There are many different types of coats and jackets on the market, but you’ll want to make sure that you choose one that is specifically designed for Great Danes or large dogs.

You’ll also want to make sure that the coat or jacket is waterproof and has a warm lining. This will help to keep the cold air out and body temperature up.

We love this Carharrt Jacket (can be purchased on Amazon) which suits both small dogs and giant breeds since it comes in many sizes.

KEEPING PAW PADS SAFE FROM ICE AND NEGATIVE TEMPERATURES

Great Danes do not always need to wear ‘dog shoes’ while they are outside in the snow.

If you have an active dog, they most likely have developed calluses on their paw pads from a young age.

However, the bottoms of dogs feet can get cold quickly when playing in cold weather, ice, snow etc. So, dog owners want to monitor their dog closely and watch to make sure that their feet are not getting too cold.

There are a few things you can do to help protect your dog’s feet from the cold:
- Use paw balm or Vaseline on their paw pads before going outside. This will create a barrier between their skin and the elements.
- Put dog shoes on their feet. This is especially helpful for senior dogs or dogs that don’t have calluses on their paw pads.
- Wipe their feet off with a towel when they come back inside to remove any salt, snow, or ice that might be stuck to their little fur.
- Invest in Pawz Dog booties. These booties resemble ‘balloons’ that are slip-proof and actually stay on your dogs feet. Best of all, they actually fit onto Great Danes paws.
- Lastly, we love to see dog owners using Mushers Secret for their Gentle Giant. Mushers Secret is a petroleum jelly type of paw protection agent for both cold weather and hot weather. Many dog owners swear by this product and we can state that it really does help with health problems associated with cold contact.
USING SCARVES OR ‘SNOODS’ ON GREAT DANES NECKS IN COLD WEATHER

Not all dogs will tolerate a scarf or ‘snood’, but most dogs do love them.

A ‘snood’ is a type of scarf made for a dog.

KEEPING A GREAT DANE WARM IN THE RAIN

Some dogs like the rain and some dogs do not like the rain. But, most Great Dane owners report that their Great Dane will play in the rain with proper rain gear.

Make sure your dog has the right equipment and protection to keep safe and warm and they might really love to take a quick dip in a rain shower.

RAIN JACKETS FOR LARGER BREEDS

One rain jacket that we know works at keeping cool water off of your Great Dane is the Derby Original.

This jacket will keep your dog warm and dry and also comes in all sizes suitable for Great Danes.

It is affordable as well!

Best of all, we use this rain jacket in the Spring but also in the winter months on a brisk and even snowy day.

Lastly, this can be used as an outer coat with something lighter underneath for dogs at an increased risk of colder temperature.

MY GREAT DANE HATES TO BE COLD

If your Great Dane despises the cold weather, that is okay.

In extreme cases some dogs will spend several hours outside playing in the snow!

However, on the other hand, you might have a dog owner report that their dog shows signs of freezing after just a minute or two.

You know your dog best. Always monitor for your dog’s normal temperature.

HEATED PAD FOR A DOG WHO HATES TO BE COLD

If you have a dog who despises the cold weather, consider getting them a heated pad to relax on.

Dogs love to snuggle up on something warm. Beware though- they might argue with your other dogs for this spot!

HOW DO GREAT DANES HANDLE HOT WEATHER?

Great Danes are large dogs who get hot very quickly in the summer heat.

You should never keep your Great Dane outside in direct sun exposure or any hot environment for any extended period of time as it can create health conditions and heat stroke.

MY GREAT DANE DOES NOT TOLERATE HOT WEATHER

Most Great Danes struggle to tolerate warm weather for an extended period of time.

It is important to provide regular exercise for your dog, but should be given at appropriate times of days when the weather is not extreme.

COOLING MAT FOR A DOG WHO GETS VERY HOT

If you notice your dog or Great Dane constantly panting or overheating, you can invest in a cooling mat.

We have noticed that Great Danes typically love to relax on these and a dog’s temperatures will quickly lower when relaxing on the mat after playing outside in warm weather.

Your dog will be grateful for the break from the summer weather.

DOG SWIMMING POOL THAT FITS GREAT DANES

Even if your dog does not love to actually swim, it might like to dip its feet in the cool water of a swimming pool.

If your dog’s temperature is too high, it is also nice to have a little pool like this one filled up to splash them off and keep them cool.

IS IT OKAY TO LEAVE MY DOG IN THE CAR?

It is absolutely never okay to leave your dog in a hot car.

Your dog’s temperature can increase very fast in a hot vehicle, causing major health issues.

Even if you are just running inside for a moment in the hot summer months, do not leave your dog in the car.

Ask a family member to stay in the car with your dog instead.

HOW CAN I KNOW IF MY GREAT DANE HAS A TEMPERATURE?

If you have a Great Dane, you should be familiar with taking their temperature.

Knowing your Great Dane’s temperature could save you a medical emergency in the future.

RECTAL THERMOMETER

Using a rectal thermometer is one of the easiest ways (for you!) to take the temperature of your dog.

Just remember to lube up the thermometer with some Jelly before you insert it- this will make it much more comfortable for your dog.

The rectal thermometer will give you an accurate reading of your dog and it’s temperature.

USING DIGITAL THERMOMETERS

If your Great Dane does not tolerate a rectal thermometer, you can use a digital thermometer on it.

To use a digital thermometer, you can scan your Great Dane’s outer ear.

EAR THERMOMETER FOR A GREAT DANE

If you prefer to check the temperature of your dog with their ear canal, you will need an ear thermometer.

Using the thermometer, take your dog’s ears and place the thermometer inside the horizontal ear canal.

Keep the thermometer inside your dog’s ears until you get a reading of temperature.

GLASS THERMOMETER FOR A DOG

Some Great Dane parents opt to use a glass thermometer as it is mercury free.

You can use this thermometer multiple ways. Just gently insert in your Great Dane’s ear or rectum.

NORMAL TEMPERATURE FOR A GREAT DANE

A normal temperature for a Great Dane is between 101 and 102.

However, keep in mind that each dog is different and you should always consult a licensed veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your dog.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Yes, Great Danes need accommodations during extreme temperature days, but really it is not much different than most dogs. Be mindful of Great Dane heating and cooling.

Yes, you have some dogs that are built for the snow or built for the desert, but on average most dogs need to be cared for during a long hour at the dog park or playing in sub zero weather.

If you have a Great Dane, take care in extreme weather and your pup will thank you.

Read more:

Off-Color & Designer Great Danes
June 15, 2022
Miniature Great Danes: Everything You Need to Know

Do you love the big, lovable Great Dane but don’t have the space for one? Maybe you’re thinking about getting a dog and want to know if a Miniature Great Dane is the right breed for you. Whatever the case may be, this blog post is for you! We will discuss everything you need to know about Miniature Great Danes, from their temperament and personality traits to their exercise needs and health concerns.

Are Miniature Great Danes Real?

This is a question we get a lot. And the answer is yes, Miniature Great Danes are real! They are not simply a runt of the litter or a Great Dane mixed with another small breed. Miniature Great Danes are their own unique Great Dane breed with their own set of characteristics.

What Makes a Miniature Great Dane?

The main difference between a Miniature Great Dane and a regular Great Dane is their size and the way they were bred.

A Miniature Great Dane puppy was probably bred by a Female Great Dane and Male Great Dane with a much smaller stature.

While this may be the case for some, not all breeders have their dogs undergo health testing. So, always make sure to do your research before getting a Miniature Great Dane!

Miniature Great Danes are not recognized as a completely separate Great Dane breed according to the American Kennel Club. Mini Great Danes are just that – the mini version of your favorite purebred Great Dane!

How Big are Mini-Great Danes?

Normal Great Danes are typically 30 inches tall at the shoulder and can weigh up to 175 pounds. Miniature Great Danes, on the other hand, are usually 20-26 inches tall and only about 90 lbs pounds.

Mini Great Danes are just regular Great Danes who might be more petite, smaller, or have smaller than average parents.

Just because you have a miniature Great Dane, does not mean that you have a small dog!

Your miniature Great Dane will definitely still be giant size!

Do People Intentionally Breed Miniature Sized Great Danes?

Breeders are (hopefully) not breeding miniature Great Danes on purpose.

Anytime someone goes against the Great Dane breed standards they should be seeking pet medical advice for that breeding. (and always!)

Off Color and Designer Great Danes
Bad Breeders
Scam Breeders: What to Look For
Breeders: Shady Business
Small Great Danes

When breeders try to produce miniature dogs of any dog breed it can produce health problems. Miniature dogs have become a big problem in many dog breeds.

Great Dane on White Background

Great Danes are a giant breed and should be bred to protect the dog’s growth.

However, if a breeder get’s a miniature Great Dane, in other words a smaller pup of the litter, it does not make them a ‘bad’ breeder.

Some Great Danes are just not going to be as big as others, and that should be normalized.

Great Dane Temperament & Personality Traits

Now that we’ve answered the question “Are Miniature Great Danes real?”, let’s move on to temperament and personality traits.

Just like regular Great Danes, Miniature Great Danes are gentle giants. They are loyal, loving, and make great family dogs. They are also very friendly with other animals and children.

Mini Great Dane temperament really does not differ from regular Great Danes.

Temperament of both mini Great Danes and standard sized Great Danes is highly related to the way they were originally bred as well as the socialization that they have been given.

If you have a large dog, you have a responsibility to help them with not only obedience training but also making sure that they are comfortable and confident in social settings.

Having a Great Dane is different than any other dog breed. New dog owners should read and learn about how to use balanced training and socialization in their dog’s life in order to help their Great Dane be successful.

Health Issues with Giant Breed Dogs

Giant breed dogs are often plagued with health issues like hip dysplasia, Bloat, arthritis, heart disease, and cancer.

Large breed dogs should not face these health problems, but unfortunately back yard breeders are producing more and more giant breed dogs that are not health tested and large dogs are at the brut of it.

Giant breeds do not need to be ‘less healthy’ than any other normal dog.

If you purchase a purebred Great Dane from a responsible breeder, you should be able to get a large breed Great Dane with minimal health issues, however it is up to you to do your research.

Miniature Great Danes do not have any less or more health issues or health problems than any other normal Great Dane. It is all dependent on the particular breeding practices of your specific Great Dane.

However, we do know that obesity lowers the life expectancy of Great Dane dogs significantly, so if your Great Dane is a pocket sized version in both height and weight, it could help lower their health risks towards obesity.

My Great Dane is Too Small

If you thought you were getting a ‘standard’ size Great Dane, but ended up with a miniature Great Dane, do not fret.

There is nothing wrong with having a smaller or ‘miniature’ Great Dane puppy.

As a matter of fact, most mini Great Danes are as healthy as can be.

At about 90 lbs, they are able to stay slim and keep the weight off of their large joints, generally speaking. Miniature Great Dane size does not define them being a giant breed dog or not.

This allows them to fight against arthritis and hip dysplasia or other health problems that step from obesity in Great Danes.

For that reason, you shouldn’t worry if your Great Dane is turning out smaller than you were hoping for.

Every dog is different and just because you got the smaller dog of the litter does not mean that there is anything wrong with them.

What is the Life Expectancy of Great Danes?

Great Dane dogs are a large breed and many think that automatically means that they should have a short life span.

Many breeders have perpetuated this issue by breeding Great Dane puppies with huge health issues.

Pet parents are left with dogs who are dying at a young age, vet bills they cannot afford and a broken heart.

This does not have to be the case.

If you do your research and purchase a Great Dane from a responsible breeder, your dog will have a much better chance of having a long and healthy life.

The average life expectancy for a Great Dane is about seven to ten years, although some can live up to 12 years if they are well cared for and do not have any major health problems.

Some health conditions that commonly shorten the lifespan of Great Danes include hip dysplasia, bloat, cancer, and heart disease.

By getting your Great Dane from a responsible breeder and taking them to regular vet check-ups, you can help ensure that your dog lives a long and happy life.

Do Miniature Great Danes Require Exercise?

If you have a Great Dane that you consider a ‘mini Great Dane’, you should treat it just like you would other dogs.

Depending on the dog, the dog’s growth / age / sex, it might need more or less exercise than its peers.

As a rule of thumb, Great Danes require about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day.

This can be in the form of a walk, run, or playing fetch at the park.

Photo credit to @lexi.aspen.rayna

Photo credit to @lexi.aspen.rayna

Exercise is important for all dogs, but especially important for large breed dogs like the Great Dane.

Not only does it help them stay physically fit, but it also helps them avoid boredom and destructive behaviors.

So, if you have a miniature Great Dane, make sure to give them plenty of exercise and attention!

Do Miniature Great Danes require as much exercise as regular dogs? The answer is yes! Just like any other dog, depending on the dog’s growth/age/sex, they might need more.

What Items do I Need for my Miniature Great Dane?

Like all Great Danes, we recommend utilizing a healthy diet, promoting healthy socialization skills and training and working preventatively to keep them as healthy as possible.

WHAT BED SHOULD I GET MY MINI DANE?

Our favorite bed for any Giant Breed dog including Miniature Great Danes is the Big Barker bed.

Working to prevent joint issues before they happen is the key. Unfortunately, your gentle giant is predisposed to joint disease just because of its size.

The Big Barker bed is made with extra-dense foam that gives your dog the support it needs without sinking down too far.

The cover is also machine washable and dryer safe, so you can keep it clean and looking new for years to come.

Plus, the Big Barker bed comes in a variety of colors and sizes to fit any home décor and any size dog!

Big Barker Bed Review

So, if you’re looking for a bed for your Miniature Great Dane, we highly recommend the Big Barker bed!

Get a FREE Jolly Ball with the purchase of a Big Barker bed.

HOW SHOULD I TRAIN MY MINIATURE GREAT DANE?

It is so important for Great Dane parents to do their research before bringing home their Great Dane on the training processes they’d like to take.

However, it’s never too late!

We believe in balanced training for all Great Danes. The truth is- you CAN teach an old Great Dane new tricks!

We have an abundance of training resources that you can peruse. Feel free to reach out.

Why is Leash Training so Hard?
5 Leash Training Tips
Puppy Training: 5 Mistakes in Training
What is Balanced Training?
Respect Training Tips: How to Train Your Puppy Great Dane
Is My Great Dane Being Aggressive?
Deplorable Dog Training: Sit Happens
What is Great Dane Dominance Training?

WHAT ARE THE BEST TREATS FOR GREAT DANES?

Mini Great Danes and standard size Great Danes have one thing in common- they all love treats.

Treats for Great Danes

Be sure to choose healthy training treats that will keep your Great Dane feeling its best.

Here are our favorites.

Code HELLODANES10 for 10% off all Dr. Harveys products

WHAT CRATE SHOULD I USE FOR MY MINIATURE GREAT DANE?

We believe in crate training for Great Danes as it keeps them safe and provides them with security and comfort.

How to Crate Train a Great Dane Puppy
Crate Training: The Best Crates for Great Danes
New Puppy Checklist

If you are struggling to crate train your Great Dane, you are not alone.

Check out our resources for learning to safely crate your Great Dane.

Do you have a miniature Great Dane? What tips do you have for other pet parents? Let us know in the comments below!

Read More About Miniature Great Danes: Miniature Great Danes: Everything You Need to Know

READ MORE:

What Does Euro Mean in Great Danes?

Great Dane Puppy Growth Chart

June 14, 2022