Author: Hello Danes

Great Dane Barking: What to Do When Your Dog Won’t Stop Making Noise
Great Dane barking can be a real problem. These dogs are known for their loud, deep bark, and sometimes it seems like they just won’t stop. If you’re dealing with this issue, don’t worry – you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll discuss the causes of loud or destructive behavior in your Great Dane and offer some tips on how to deal with it.

Great Dane Barking: An Important Sign of Dog Breed Characteristics

Great Danes are generally very mild, especially for such a large dog. But their bark can be quite deep and intimidating, which is so often associated in movies and TV shows as a sign of aggression.

However, you do not want to jump to conclusions about the Great Dane temperament just because you are having a hard time stopping all of the ruckus and barking.

In reality, your Great Dane is probably just trying to communicate with you. This is one of the most important things to remember when dealing with this issue.

There are a few different things that your Great Dane could be attempting to say with its barking.

Your Great Dane Dog Could Be Bored

First, your dog may be bored. If you’ve noticed that your Dane only seems to bark when it’s left alone or doesn’t have anything else to do, this is likely the case. Dogs are social creatures, and they need stimulation and interaction just like we do. If you think your Dane might be bored, try adding some new toys to its toy box or taking it on more walks. You might also want to consider doggy daycare or hiring a dog walker if you’re gone for long periods during the day. Finally, long lasting bones are a great way to help your Great Dane have an activity throughout the day. Here are some of the best:

Your Great Dane is Scared or Anxious

Another possibility is that your Dane is trying to protect itself. This is especially common in Great Danes that have a history of anxiety or fear.

It is most common amongst Great Dane owners to misunderstand their Great Dane’s fear for ‘honor’. Many people think that their big dog is trying to protect them as its owner.

However, most of the time when you have large dogs who are expressing themselves with an abundance of reactive barking, it is not because they are scared for YOU… In fact, they are actually just scared for themselves.

Working with a responsible and qualified trainer, practicing ethical and balanced training methods such as e collar training or crate training and providing enough exercise can be methods to help your Giant Breed conquer their anxiety.

The Best Crate for a Great Dane Puppy: Click Here

Your Great Dane Simply Needs Boundaries

Usually barking is a bigger issue with Great Dane puppies than an adult dog. However, at random times throughout the life of giant breed dogs, problems can pop up, including random barking.

If you notice either your Great Dane pup or adult Great Danes are beginning to bark or react at random, and you have eliminated anxiety and boredom, you will want to work on reestablishing your Great Dane’s boundaries. You may want to examine whether you are making one of the 5 common mistakes that we see often with training Great Danes:

5 Common mistakes you may be making when Training Your Great Dane

Consider the amount of exercise Great Danes should get in one day, invest in some good puzzle feeders to keep your Great Dane busy and motivated, purchase some quality treats to motivate your gentle giant, and begin working on creating those expectations. Here are a few of our favorite slow feeders to keep your pup engaged:

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

And, here are a few of our favorite treat options:

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Do Health Problems Make Great Danes Aggressive?

Do genetic health problems make Great Danes aggressive? That’s a loaded question, and one that scientists are still trying to answer. If you haven’t looked into common health issues that pop up with Great Danes, you may want to.

7 Health Battles that Great Danes Fight

Click Here

There is some evidence that certain health problems can increase aggression in dogs, but it’s still unclear exactly how much of a role those problems play.

Is My Great Dane Being Aggressive?

Hip Dysplasia / Joint Disease in Great Danes in Association with Barking, Growling, Lunging

For example, hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that can cause joint pain and mobility problems. Some research has shown that dogs with hip dysplasia are more likely to be aggressive, but it’s mostly pointing to the fact that the aggression is caused by the pain rather than by actual health factors.

Arthritis in Great Danes? Read here.

Chronic Pain in Great Danes and Barking

Likewise, dogs who experience any form of chronic pain are more likely to act out aggressively. This is because they’re in a constant state of discomfort, and they may lash out as a way to protect themselves.

A Dog’s Age in Correlation with Barking or Reactivity

Different dog breeds age at different rates, and thus, have a different life span. Young dogs might be more tolerant to more things such as wrestling with other dogs or playing with young kids. Alternatively, a young, energetic Great Dane might be more eager to bark at a distraction walking outside of the window than an adult Great Dane.

This could be for a variety of reasons, but the most likely scenario is that the adult Great Dane has already learned its lesson and doesn’t need to be reminded as often.

For more information about the life span of a Great Dane, make sure to check this blog out:

How long do Great Danes live? Well, this sweetie named Harleigh is 10 and thriving! Read more here!

Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout

Reactivity in Senior Dogs

Conversely, senior dogs are more prone to developing health problems that can cause pain and other issues. They may also be more sensitive to things like changes in their environment or routine.

While there isn’t a definitive answer on whether or not health problems cause aggression, it’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s health and consult with your veterinarian if you notice any changes in behavior.

4 feet, 6 feet, or 8 feet options

Reputable Breeders and the Role They Play with Your Great Dane

For anyone looking to adopt a Great Dane, finding a reputable breeder is essential.

Reputable breeders know everything there is to know about the breed and can help you select the perfect dog based on your lifestyle and preferences.

Why Do Responsible Great Dane Breeders Matter?

Additionally, responsible breeders prioritize keeping the qualities that make Great Danes so unique intact, while also working hard to eliminate inherent health issues in their lines. In other words, they are not just breeding dogs to breed dogs and the Great Danes that you find with a high quality breeder are not the same in regards to health and longevity as you would find at a pet store.

Finding a Healthier Dog For Your Family

Whether you are looking for a show-quality Dane or just want an energetic companion to take hiking, a reputable and responsible breeder will be able to help you find the perfect match for your needs. No matter what you are looking for, everybody wants to find a family member to love on for the longest possible life span.

Bad Breeder Red Flags

We have an abundance of resources on breed characteristics to look for in a Great Dane as well as what makes a well rounded dog and what to avoid from a Great Dane breeder. Be sure to check out our breeder resources here:

Great Dane Puppies and Obedience Training

Great Dane puppies are known for their lovely, friendly personalities and their eagerness to please.

Whether you’re training them yourself or sending them off to puppy obedience school, it’s important to start early and be consistent in your efforts. This will ensure that your dane puppy grows into a well behaved canine companion who is always eager to obey your commands.

Training a Great Dane Puppy

Training a Great Dane puppy is unique to other dog breeds. One of the best ways to train a gentle giant is by taking advantage of their curious and playful nature. Take advantage of your young dog’s age and work with them in a fun and positive way. As long as you stay patient and upbeat, dane puppies will learn quickly and enjoy the process along the way.

Using Treats, Praise and Fun for Your Giant Breeds

To keep things engaging and interesting, try breaking up your training sessions into short segments, making sure to use positive reinforcement techniques like treats or praise when they perform successfully. Here are some of our favorite treat sets for gentle giants:

Interested in making your own homemade treats? Coopers Treats offers kits to make your own baked treats and pupcicles.

Remain Positive with Your Great Dane

Additionally, you should always acknowledge Danes for good behavior, even if it’s just a simple head scratch or a loving pat on the back. After all, every dog wants to feel loved!

Ethical Use of the E Collar

We are advocates for Dane owners use of ethical e collar training with their Great Danes. If you are interested, here are some resources for e collar training with Great Dane dogs linked:

Whether you’re working with an older dane or raising a brand new pup, keeping things fun and rewarding will help build confidence as well as obedience in your Great Dane puppy. Remember that getting through those early puppy stages can be tough, but by being patient and consistent with your dane, you’ll find success with your giant dog.

Need help with modern e collar training? Check out our guide.

A Great Danes Environment and How It Contributes to Temperament

Great Danes are such large and powerful dogs that they require a very specific environment in order to thrive. At times, you may notice that a Great Dane might change the way they act depending on their environment.

The Great Dane Dog Breed is Very Intuitive

Large and giant breeds are so in tune with their surroundings that they, at times, can take on those stressors.

This can, in fact, lead to barking or destructive behavior, which can be really hard on pet parents for such a large breed.

What Does It Mean To Socialize a Great Dane?

Great Danes need plenty of space to move around and stretch their long, muscular bodies, and they also need regular social interaction, which does not always mean interacting with other animals or other pets. (Socialization can mean a whole ton of fun things!) Check out our guide for ideas!

The Difference Between a Young and Adult Great Dane Dog

A young Great Dane should be allowed to play with other puppies when possible, but also socialized in other ways and introduced to a dog trainer. Younger Danes may be more playful, excitable, high energy dogs. An older dog will appreciate the company of fellow older Great Danes or mellow human companions. Mature dogs are usually calm and easygoing compared to other breeds. Many Great Danes also love young kids!

Additionally, Great Dane dogs tend to have a gentle temperament throughout their lives, but this can be influenced by a number of factors such as moving, household family members, their own Great Dane owners, and other pets in the house.

Home Factors for a Giant Dog

Many giant dogs are quick to pick up on different energy in the house. Did somebody in the family recently become sick? If so, is your Great Dane’s behavior different? Is there a new baby in the house?

All of these things can play into how a Great Dane perceives it’s environment and, as a result, how they might bark or act out.

A great dane’s behavior is largely contingent on their environment and the people in it. That’s why it’s important to provide them with a stable, loving home where they can feel comfortable and secure.

Do High Energy Great Danes Display Different Behavior Issues?

Although a Great Dane has a gentle nature compared to other dogs, some Great Danes are extremely high energy. And, like all dogs, high energy Great Danes can sometimes display different behavior issues.

At times, a bored dog is a destructive dog. If your Great Dane is displaying Separation Anxiety, boredom or stress might be the root cause.

Tips to Burn Energy in Great Danes

Here are some tips on how to keep your high energy Great Dane entertained:
1. Make sure they have plenty of toys to play with and that they are rotated regularly so they don’t get bored. Here are some of our favorite toys:
2. Use a puzzle feeder for your dog’s food so that they can eat and be mentally stimulated at the same time. We linked some of our favorites for your convenience.
3. Work on training with a long leash. This way they can run and explore while you are still in control. Practice commands such as come, sit, and stay.
4. Only allow socialization with other dogs who you know to be friendly dogs. Stay away from a dog park that you are not familiar with and work to increase their intuition to trust responsible ‘role model’ dogs or humans.
5. If your Great Dane is extremely active, consider getting them involved in dog sports! The National Breed Club offers an abundance of dog sports for Great Danes which can be an amazing avenue of getting energy out in a positive way.
A Fulfilled Great Dane is a Quieter and More Peaceful Great Dane

By providing your high energy Great Dane with plenty of exercise and stimulating activities, you can help prevent destructive (and loud) behavior.

The best way to combat behavior that you want to see less of is by ensuring that your dog gets plenty of exercise – both mental and physical. This will help burn off some of that extra energy and keep their minds occupied so they’re not as likely to bark or act out.

How Can I Get My Great Dane to Stop Barking at Other Dogs?

Most dog owners have experienced the embarrassment of their dog barking uncontrollably at another dog, small or large.

But for those of us who own a Great Dane, it’s a whole other level of mortification. After all, these are not small dogs we’re talking about – they are giant beasts that can unintentionally intimidate other breeds (and sometimes even people).

So what can you do to get your Great Dane to stop barking at other dogs? Here are a few tips:

One: Understanding Great Danes and Their Origin

First, realize that this CAN be an instinctual behavior for Great Danes. They were bred as hunting dogs to hunt wild boar, and their job was to track down and flush out prey. As a result, they have a strong instinct to bark at anything that moves.

So, does that mean it is okay for my Great Dane to bark and react?

Yes, Great Danes were bred originally to be a hunting dog breed, however that does not make it ‘right’ for your Great Dane to bark inside your house, in a fenced yard, or react to other dogs. Currently Great Danes are NOT being bred as ‘boar hound’ dogs, and should be redirected AWAY from barking unnecessarily.

Two: Is it Personal When My Great Dane Won’t Stop Barking?

No, don’t take it personally when your dog barks at another dog – this is just their natural response to many things: anxiety, feeling out of control, fear, boredom, etc.

Your Response is YOUR Responsibility

However, the way in which you respond to their behavior IS personal- as it is directly YOUR behavior! When you are working with your Great Dane on their behavior, stay calm and be consistent with your commands.

This is a lot easier said than done when you’ve got a 80lb+ dog barking their head off, but try to remain as calm as possible. If you get upset or anxious, it will only make the situation worse.

Three: Socializing Your Great Dane Does NOT Mean Making Them Interact With Other Dogs

So many owners in the dog world think that socializing from a young age means to get their puppy around other dogs from different breeds, the same breed, kids and humans, visit dog parks, etc.

That is true, SOMETIMES, only if the other dogs are trustworthy and good role models.

However, most of the time, socialization occurs when you provide opportunities for your Great Dane to be IN the chaos, but not APART of the chaos. An example of this playing out in real life would be sitting on a bench at a busy parking lot, teaching your dog to give you eye contact and ignore people or dogs that walk by.

This practice teaches Great Danes that life is busy and hectic, kids / humans / dogs exist but they are NOT all his for the taking and he does NOT need to bark or say hello to each and every one of them! Additionally, this important skill can teach your Great Dane that you, as the owner, are the top priority.

Four: What to do When You See A Barking Trigger with Your Great Dane

Fourth, if you see another dog, squirrel, or other distraction while out walking your Great Dane, make sure to keep them under control and calm.

If you know that your dog is particularly distracted by the German Mastiff neighbor that lives down the road, completely avoid walking down that side of the street, and instead walk on the other side of the street.

Great Danes are fast learners and can pick up on things quickly, but will need guidance. Avoiding things is NOT irresponsible.

Lastly, create a relationship in which eye contact is valuable. Providing treats and pulling the treats to your eyes before giving them to your dog is going to show your dog that your eyes are worth something good and positive.

When you see a squirrel, ask for eye contact and proceed past the distraction– making sure to reward your pup for positive results.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, the Great Dane dog breed is a fascinating one that has ups and downs throughout its entire life span. At times, they can create annoying habits like barking, but it can be fixed with responsible, balanced training and work. Do not get discouraged, and always seek professional help when you feel in over your head!

If you have any questions or concerns about your Great Dane’s behavior, please reach out to a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for help or reach us on our Facebook page for support.

READ MORE:

The Top 5 Adorable Facts About Great Danes

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April 28, 2022
8 Reasons You Should Not Get a Great Dane as a Guard Dog

Many people think that getting a Great Dane as a guard dog is a great idea. After all, they are big and imposing, and they look like they would be great at protecting their home and family. However, there are several reasons why you should not get a Great Dane as a guard dog. In fact, in this blog post, we will discuss 8 of them!

One: Great Dane as a Guard Dog AND Good Family Dogs?

Great Danes are well known for being magnificent, loyal family guard dogs.

These large and sturdy dogs are naturally protective of those they love, making them great companions for family members both young and old. Whether lounging by your side on the couch or running around outside with you or your kids, Great Danes are always happy to be spending time with their family.

Will My Great Dane Dogs Protect My Family?

As such, they make great family dogs that protect and care for those they love most. However, being willing to protect their family members and household members does not make them a dog that is able to serve as a good guard dog.

With their big hearts and even bigger personalities as one important trait, these dogs serve better as pets to your family from household potential threats in certain situations than as guard dogs which may be trained to protect / be aggressive.

Of almost all dog breeds, Great Danes make good family dogs, but as a family guard dog it is an entirely different story.

Two: Great Danes Are Not That Easy to Train

Great Danes are extremely smart dogs who, with loving and supportive dog owners, can thrive in any situation.

As a matter of fact, there are many Great Danes who undergo Therapy Training, or become trained to be Service Dogs.

What Makes a Great Dane Harder To Train Than Other Working Dogs?

However, training the Dane breed as a whole is not as easy as other breeds or animals. Great Danes are not as driven to work and train as a breed of dog who is extremely food motivated and interested in training for every single piece of food it receives.

Great guard dogs require extreme intensity in their training and self – control, which is just not something that a Great Dane has in comparison to other pets or dogs.

After all, you never know when your Great Dane guard dog might sense a threat, perk their ears up in an attempt to protect its home, children and owner, and all of the sudden turn into a dopey, clumsy, large dog that accidentally trips over the couch or walks into the wall on it’s way to attack its intruder.

Viper 15ft Training Lead

Leather Dog Leash

Leather Slip Leash

After all, even the most protective Great Dane is simply not as regal as a good guard dog.

Three: Great Danes Are Not Aggressive

Additionally, since Great Danes are not a naturally aggressive dog, it is difficult to teach them to become one.

Great Danes are known for the reputation of ‘Gentle Giants’, something that not all dogs can live up to.

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You happened to choose a dog breed that (with good genetics) has a calm temperament. Although they are massive size, they are generally great with children, other pets, and calm / gentle.

We often hear of aggressive Great Danes, in which owners wonder or assume that their dog is acting as a guard dog. However, we have news for you. As a friend, we can tell you confidently that your Dane is *most likely* not trying to be protective when he is barking or acting aggressive.

Instead, your Dane is exhibiting signs of fear.

Euro Danes: A Big, Droopy Problem
Puppy Training: 5 Mistakes in Training
14 Exciting Things about Black Great Danes

Most Great Danes are NOT trying to protect their owners when they demonstrate ‘protective’ behavior. Owners should recognize that their dog is indeed working to protect ITSELF. In turn, their pet needs to be put in intense training with a trained professional, or speak with a licensed veterinarian.

My Great Dane is Aggressive

If your Great Dane is aggressive, shows signs that it wants to attack, or barks at new friends, dogs or sounds, you should consider getting them trained.

A dog that is not properly trained can be a potential threat and danger to themselves, you and your family, as well as new dogs.

Reach out to a professional for help if you feel that your dog may need it.

We are advocates of responsible owners who train their dogs with ethical e collar training.

E Collar Training for Off Leash Freedom

My Puppy Seems Wants to Protect Me and My Other Animals

A puppy who seems ‘protective’ of its owner, itself, or other pets in the household is NOT being brave.

Puppies and dogs alike should be socialized from a young age to act calm, gentle and neutral around all new experiences. Puppy socialization does NOT always mean getting your Great Dane around other dogs.

Training a Great Dane

We have a guide with an abundance of ideas for how owners can train and socialize their dane pups to remain calm and well-mannered in an abundance of life situations.

Chippin’ Cricket Treats are known for being a powerful food topper for digestion- and dogs LOVE them!

Four: Do Not Mistake Barking as an Attempt to Protect

For the most part, any dog that sees a ‘potential threat’ such as a rabbit, squirrel, mailman, dogs walking past the front door, will begin to bark.

When other dogs walk past, or your dog sees something exciting out the window, they may naturally bark.

Viper 1″ thick Biothane Collar, comes in a range of colors.

With positive reinforcement and consistent training, an owner can work to help their dane not to bark at distractions like dogs outside of the window.

Is My Great Dane Being Protective When It Barks?

This ‘occasional’ bark can be a somewhat normal behavior in any pet, however can quickly turn into something very negative if not monitored closely by owners with training.

So, yes, however annoying the occasional bark may be for a pet owner, the problem lies when your dog begins to bark constantly, lunge, or give off an ‘attack’ body language.

If you notice your dog start to bark more at distractions like other dogs walking past, you should remind yourself that your Great Dane is STILL not trying to be a ‘guard dog’.

What is the Difference Between a Guard Dog and a Scared Dog?

On the surface, a scared dog might actually look like a guard dog to an untrained eye. To owners who may not know, many characteristics may appear the same in dogs who are scared to guard dogs.

Let’s examine what it might look like to see the behavior of guard dogs vs. the behavior of a dog who is scared.

Good Guard Dogs Behavior

Good guard dogs have had extensive training to know when to bark and when not to, as well as how to properly attack an intruder if necessary.

In addition, a good guard dog will be under the control of its handler at all times, while a scared dog may be more difficult to handle and manage.

A guard dog will appear very calm. Handlers of guard dogs will always watch their dogs, but not react as they know they will be able to command them to listen at any time. Guard dogs are generally are highly equipped dogs with genetics that make good guard dogs.

Photo Credit to Hellen at Mumukodogsquad (Picture of sweet Dakota!)

Photo Credit to Hellen at Mumukodogsquad (Picture of sweet Dakota!)

Scared Dogs Behavior

Scared dogs generally have not had any training, and will often bark excessively at anything that may look or sound ‘threatening’, regardless of whether it actually is or not.

Pet parents of dogs who are timid, nervous, or scared might think that they own protective dogs and try to make their dog into a ‘guard dog’. They might even try to tell others that their Great Dane is a guard dog for the purpose of finding an excuse for its behavior.

However, if an owner does not have control over its working dogs at all times, a scared dog becomes a major danger to society: humans, children, other dogs, etc.

Know the Difference Between Fear and a Highly Trained Guard Dog

To sum it up, if your dog is exhibiting any ‘protective’ behavior, chances are they are not actually trying to protect you or your home – they are simply afraid.

With proper training from an early age, your dog will NOT demonstrate reactive or dangerous behavior. Your dog should NOT guard you if they have not been trained by a professional to be a professional guard dog. This behavior is dangerous and irresponsible.

Five: Great Danes Have Anxiety

Unfortunately, many dog breeders have perpetrated the Great Dane world and riddled it with bad breeding.

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

As a result, the breed, like other breeds, has struggled a huge hit and Great Danes have suffered as a result. The way a dog is bred defines the important trait of their temperament.

Why are So Many Great Danes So Anxious?

Great Danes are NOT meant to be an anxious dog. So many dog breeds have anxiety wired into their genetics.

If your Great Dane is anxious, suffers from separation anxiety or demonstrates destructive behavior that is often unexplained, they could have been bred with genetics that leads them to this issue.

Finding a Quality Great Dane Breeder

If you are looking to add a Great Dane to your family, you should consider the history of how they were bred. Speak to any potential breeders before you buy a dog.

Euro Danes: A Big, Droopy Problem
What Does Euro Mean in Great Danes?

Examine possible dog breeder red flags, such as selling dogs online, not letting you meet the dog or the dog’s parents before you purchase said dog, having other dogs in their family who are sick / died early, not conducting proper health testing on their dogs, or more.

We have an abundance of information on bad breeding in regards to Great Danes — do your research BEFORE you bring home a Great Dane.

There are also an abundance of resources on the American Kennel Club website, however just because a dog is registered as ‘AKC’ with the American Kennel Club does NOT mean that it is a well-bred dog.

Six: Great Danes Think Everyone is Their Friend

Great Danes, when properly bred and socialized, LOVE other people. Great Danes are so lovable, in fact, that this is one reason that they do not make good guard dogs.

Compared to any other dog, a Great Dane is generally significantly more friendly and happy to meet new people than a different dog.

Once trained and socialized, try taking a Great Dane into a public, dog friendly location.

Your Great Dane is going to feel like the life of the party and be excited as can be.

Seven: Having a Guard Dog is a Liability

Many people want to have the ‘best guard dog’ to keep their family safe. Also, people often stumble upon Great Danes because they are one of the largest dog breeds.

However, good guard dogs start training almost immediately after they are born with smells and desensitization from their mothers breastmilk, etc.

Unless you are working with a highly trained professional who has extensive experience with guard dogs, it becomes an extreme liability.

Guard dogs are trained to know the difference between a threat and someone who is not a threat. An untrained guard dog does not know the difference — to them, everyone is a potential threat and they will attack accordingly.

It is important to remember that even if you have the ‘best guard dog in the world’, it is still your responsibility as an owner to train your Great Danes, and other dog breeds according to the way society operates.

Eight: Great Danes Are Not the Right Size for Guard Dogs

When it comes to guard dogs, big is not necessarily better.

Although great Danes are often regarded as some of the best guard dogs due to their impressive size, they can actually be quite poor guard dogs in certain scenarios.

For one thing, a male Great Dane is far and away the tallest dog breed, which means that it stands out from other guard dogs and may attract unwanted attention from thieves and other intruders.

Good guard dogs have extremely quick agility, which typically means they need to be smaller and quicker on their feet than a Great Dane.

All in all, if you’re looking for an effective guard dog, then the wise choice may be a smaller dog, rather than opting for one of the towering great Danes.

Conclusion:

I will state that Great Danes, although may be one of many protective dog breeds, do not make good guard dogs. Great Danes are a lovable and powerful breed of dog but are not easy to train to be guard dogs.

Choose a dog from a breeder wisely, as poorly breeders is often how Great Danes suffer from anxiety and infliction.

Bad Breeders
Scam Breeders: What to Look For
Breeders: Shady Business
Should I Choose a Breeder or Rescue?
Choosing a Dog From a Show Breeder
What Makes a Breeder Good?

Great Danes are are very friendly and loving, which makes them great family pets but again, not good guard dogs.

In final thoughts, Great Danes certainly CAN be trained to be a guard dog, but for the most part, they do not serve as good guard dogs.

READ MORE:

Is My Great Dane Being Aggressive or Playing?

Find a Great Dane Rescue

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

April 27, 2022
10 Tips for Successfully Caring for Great Danes
Caring for Great Danes comes with unique responsibilities that not all dog ownership shares. If you are gearing up to add a Great Dane into your life- congratulations!

Every owner of a Great Dane knows that they are a special breed of dog. A Great Dane requires a lot of care and attention, and if you are not prepared to provide that, then owning one is not for you.

In this blog post, we will discuss 10 tips for caring for your Great Dane. We will cover everything from feeding them to exercising a Great Dane to keeping a Great Dane healthy. If you follow these tips, you might find some insight into keeping your Great Dane happy and healthy!

One: Caring for Great Danes Starts Young

The care of a Great Dane puppy starts when they are young.

Great Dane Puppy Growth

Starting your puppy off with proper diet and healthy, slow growth is crucial for their fundamentals.

Great Dane Puppy Growth Chart

Is My Great Dane Puppy Too Small?

Great Dane Puppy Socialization

It is important to socialize them with their surroundings early on so that they can learn how to interact properly.

Puppy Socialization
Puppy Culture: A Way to Socialize from the Start

Yes, this may include other dogs, but it also includes other socialization skills such as allowing your Great Dane puppy to get to know the world without being anxious. This will make your Great Dane a more well-rounded dog and less likely to have behavioral problems later in life.

We have an abundance of socialization ideas for your new Great Dane puppy. Feel free to click here to get these ideas for your Great Dane puppy- you may even want to try some of the ideas for your other dogs!

The Best Chew Toys for Great Dane Puppies

Great Danes are very big dogs, even when they are a little puppy. As they become older dogs, they develop larger jaws than most breeds.

Best Toys for Great Danes

As little pups, Great Danes and other puppies really love something to snuggle. We will link some that have great reviews, the Snuggle Puppy:

Shop here for your own Snuggle Puppy.

When you have a puppy, make sure to gear up with a slew of toys made for Great Danes so that you can direct the chewing to a safe and appropriate place. A Great Dane that is not given the right amount of appropriate avenues of chewing can become destructive, and their jaws are pretty strong, so they can easily chew through comforters, beds, and even sometimes furniture.

We have a guide of some of our favorite Giant Breed toys for your convenience.

The Best Toys for Great Danes

Work on Separation Anxiety from a Young Age with a Great Dane

Great Danes can be known to develop separation anxiety when they are both a puppy or an adult. A Great Dane LOVES to be with their owner- sometimes more than other breeds. They are a loving dog breed and sometimes even referred to as a ‘Velcro’ dog. Here are some means of combatting anxiety:

CBD

Crate Training

Socialization

To combat this anxiety with your Giant Breed, start working on separation anxiety from a young age. This means getting them used to being away from you for short periods of time and gradually increasing the length of time as they get older.

Teach Young Kids to Respect Large Dogs

It is extremely important for ALL dogs to respect children, and ALL children to respect dogs. You hear about Great Danes being gentle giants, however the truth is your clumsy Great Dane is not always going to be a Gentle Giant.

Great Dane dogs are very powerful- and their tails are very strong. Sometimes even just wagging can hurt young children. It is important to teach your dog from puppyhood what it means to respect your children, AND vice versa.

Is It Safe for My Kid to Sit or Lay on My Great Dane?

The answer to this question is absolutely not. Your Great Dane should never be sat on or laid on by a child. Even if they are a calm dog, their bones are not meant to support the weight of a child and it could cause serious injury.

Why Does My Dog Sit On Me?

If you have young children in your home, we recommend working intensely with both the child and the Great Dane to establish strict boundaries for both parties.

Crate training your Great Dane is a great way to ensure that both kids and Great Dane dogs remain safe while unsupervised.

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

BONUS POST: Is my Great Dane too Skinny!?

Here are some of our favorite crates for a Great Dane:

The Best Crate for a Great Dane Puppy: Click Here

Is It Okay for a Child to Pull on the Tail of a Great Dane?

Time and time again we see children pulling on the tail of a Great Dane, sitting on their backs and even doing things that can cause health problems.

Remember: a Great Dane CANNOT communicate verbally- if you notice lip smacking, tail tucked, or a dog trying to move away- these are all signs that the dog is uncomfortable.

Do not let your child continue if the dog is showing any of these signs and please teach them why it is important to never do these things to any dog, not just Great Danes.

Your dog’s life matters- do not put them in ANY position to harm a child.

Two: Feeding Your Great Dane

As any Great Dane owner knows, feeding your dog a high quality diet is essential for their health and wellbeing.

However, when it comes to Great Danes, this is especially important. Due to their large size, Great Danes require a diet that is correctly formulated in order to make sure that they grow correctly.

Should I Feed My Puppy ‘Puppy Food’ or ‘Adult Food’?

Depending on the contents of the food itself, your Great Dane puppy might require puppy food or regular adult dog food.

We have further information regarding this topic here:

Should I Feed My Great Dane Puppy or Adult Food?

Supplements for Great Dane Dogs

In addition, as they grow, they also may need plenty of vitamins and minerals to support their bones and joints. While you can find high quality dog food at most pet stores, you may also want to consider giving your Great Dane natural supplements such as fish oil or glucosamine. By doing so, you can ensure that your dog is getting all of the nutrients they need to stay healthy and happy. Here are some of our favorite supplements for a Great Dane, linked for your convenience:

Three: Great Dane Weight Matters to your Great Danes Health

Keeping your pet at a healthy weight is important for their overall health and wellbeing.

Miniature Great Danes: The Pocket Size Version
Is My Dog ‘Filling Out’ or Getting Fat?
Obesity in Great Danes: Fat Danes Face Serious Health Risks

Unfortunately, weight gain is a common problem for Great Danes, and it can lead to a host of health issues.

An Underweight Great Dane

A Healthy Weight Great Dane

An Overweight Great Dane

For example, extra weight puts strain on the joints and muscles, making it difficult for your Dane to move around. In addition, extra weight can lead to respiratory problems, heart disease, and diabetes.

Fat Danes and Health Risks

Thankfully, there are a few things you can do to help your Dane maintain a healthy weight. For starters, make sure they get plenty of exercise. Secondly, feed them a healthy diet that is formulated for large breed dogs. Finally, monitor their weight regularly and consult with your veterinarian if you see any signs of weight gain.

Four: Large Breed Dogs and Consistent Training

If you’re considering getting a large breed dog, there’s one thing you should know: you’re in for at least an hour of training every day while they are rapidly growing. (Of course- this number changes depending on your dog’s temperament, how they were bred, and their personality!)

Training a Great Dane

Large breeds are not necessarily difficult to train, but even the most obedient dog will need consistent reinforcement to stay on the right track.

Training Mistakes
9 Reasons to E Collar Train Your Great Dane Puppy
Why is Leash Training so Hard?

But don’t let that discourage you – the rewards of owning a large breed dog are more than worth the effort. We are extremely supportive of the ethical use of E Collars to train your Great Dane. For more resources, click below.

With patience and positive reinforcement, you’ll be able to bond with your furry friend and create a lifetime of memories. So go ahead and add a big dog to your family – just be prepared to put in the work.

Are you interested in seeing some of the most common training mistakes we see with large Great Danes? Be sure to check out this blog:

5 Common mistakes you may be making when Training Your Great Dane

Five: Great Dane Health Problems

Unfortunately, as a Great Dane lover, it is sad to admit that Great Dane dogs as a whole can be relatively prone to health conditions.

Arthritis in Great Danes
Laser Therapy for Joint Pain
How to Help a Dog with a Broken Leg
What is Bloat?

The most common problems we see are related to the bones and joints, including hip bone issues and elbow dysplasia. In addition, Great Danes are also at risk for bloat, which is a potentially life-threatening condition that affects the stomach. Great Dane dogs can also be prone to some types of cancer.

Bloat Myths: What is True and What is Not?

However, with the right knowledge, you can be best informed to prevent certain diseases in your dogs and seek veterinary care when appropriate.

Great Dane’s Ears

A Great Dane can be susceptible to ear infections. Ear infections in Great Dane dogs can typically be managed at home, but as with all things is very dependent on the dog and severity.

Our favorite method of ‘at home treatment’ for ear infections is Xymox. See below for a link to purchase for your own dogs.

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

Great Dane Ear Cropping

One way some people suggest helping to prevent ear infections is through ear cropping. Ear cropping is a procedure in which the tips of the ear are removed.

Ear Cropping in Great Danes
Ear Cropping: The Two Sided Debate
How to Tape a Cropped Dane’s Ears

This helps to shorten the ear canal and reduce the risk of infection. Great Dane dogs with cropped ears experience no pain during the procedure, WHEN / IF it is done by an ethical and humane veterinarian.

Great Dane Ear Cropping: Read More Here.

However, Great Dane ear cropping is a controversial practice, and it is important to speak with your veterinarian before having the procedure done.

Ear Infection? No Problem

Great Dane puppies typically have their ears cropped between 8 and 16 weeks of age. If you are considering ear cropping for your Great Dane puppy, be sure to do your research and talk to your veterinarian to make sure it is the right decision for your dog.

Bad Breath

Stinky breath in dogs can be indicative of a number of different problems. The most common cause of smelly breath is plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth. This can lead to gum disease, which is painful and can cause other problems if left untreated. Ensure you are providing a good food and feeding your Great Dane a probiotic, which could help to provide healthy gut flora, ultimately cutting down on the dog ‘breath’ smell.

Underlying Medical Causes

Other causes of smelly breath include kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. If your dog has gross breath that does not go away with brushing, be sure to take them to the vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Using a DNA kit such as an Embark can help you determine the genetics of your dog which may lead you to faster answers.

Also, however, some dogs might just have stinky breath here and then. Many have reported that by feeding raw food it significantly cuts back on the bad breath in their dog / dogs.

Great Dane’s Drool

Great Danes are notorious for their drooling, and it is one of the things that people love about them! If your puppy or adult dogs are drooling, just know that it is NOT a health concern, unless they seem to be excessively drooling, panting, fevered or have gray gums.

Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout

But why do they drool so much? The answer lies in the anatomy of how a Great Dane is built. They have big jaws, which means that when they are excited or eating, their saliva can’t always make it all the way to the back of their throat before dripping out of their mouths.

While there is no real ‘cure’ for this drooling habit, Great Dane dog owners typically become adjusted- and pretty dang fast too! Great Dane dogs usually just give better kisses!

Drool is all apart of being in the Great Dane club! No- not the American Kennel Club- the Great Dane Drool Club- its not a thing, but we think it should be.

Heart Disease

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of your dog living a heart healthy lifestyle. You’re feeding them right, providing plenty of exercise, and all those endorphins are pumping through their veins. But what happens when they develop heart conditions?

7 Health Battles that Great Danes Fight

Click Here

Take dilated cardiomyopathy of a Great Dane, for example.

It’s a condition where the heart muscle weakens and the heart chambers dilate (enlarge), which lowers the amount of blood that is pumped through the body of a Great Dane. It can be caused by excessive exercise, but is typically caused by genetics or an underlying medical condition.

Bloat

Bloat is a condition that can affect any mammal, but is most common in large chested dogs. It occurs when the stomach becomes distended with gas, food, or fluid, and can quickly become life-threatening if not treated immediately.

GREAT DANE BLOAT MYTH BUSTING

Though the exact cause of bloat is unknown, there are several factors that may increase the risk, including gut health, genetics and anxiety.

Can You Prevent Bloat?
Stomach Tacking: Pros and Cons
Bloat and Gut Health
The Scary Bloat Timeline

Some evidence shows that by adding some raw food into the diet, you can increase positive gut health and lower the risk of bloat. Here is some of our favorite freeze-dried raw:

Raw Grass-Fed Beef

Surf & Turf

Turkey

Symptoms of bloat include a swollen stomach, restlessness, pacing, and drooling. If your dog exhibits any of these signs, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Bloat is a very serious condition, and requires extremely fast attention.

For more information on bloat and torsion, be sure to check out our above linked resources.

Hip Dysplasia or Arthritis in Large Breeds

One of the health concerns that big dogs are prone to is hip dysplasia or arthritis.

For big or giant breeds, this can be especially crippling since they often heavily rely on their hips for mobility. Smaller dogs, on the other hand, tend to be less affected by these conditions since they’re not carrying around as much weight.

Arthritis in Great Danes? Read here.

If you’re thinking of getting a big dog like a Great Dane, do your research first to see if the breeder knows whether or not their line is susceptible to hip dysplasia or arthritis.

Also, ensure that you are working to protect the joints of your Great Dane. If you want to take your Great Dane on long hikes or use them as your running partner, you may want to do some research first. We’ve got some tips here:

Running with your Great Dane

Cancer

Cancer is a disease that most people know about, but few truly understand.

It is the unfortunately fairly common in dogs, and can cause a wide range of health problems.

While Great Danes are particularly susceptible to cancer, all breeds of dog can be affected by the disease.

Cancerous tumors can grow anywhere in the body, and can often spread to other organs. One particularly aggressive type of bone tumor (and the most common bone tumor in Great Dane dogs) is Osteosarcoma.

This can lead to a decline in overall health, and in some cases, death. Early detection is crucial to treatment, so it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the disease. If you suspect that your dog may have cancer, please contact your veterinarian immediately.

Six: Great Dane Grooming

When it comes to grooming a Great Dane, there are a few key things to keep in mind.

First of all, those nails need to be kept short. If they get too long, they can start to cause problems with the dog’s gait and potentially even lead to injury.

The best way to keep them trimmed is to use a nail clipper designed specifically for Great Dane’s nails. It is CRUCIAL for your Great Dane’s health- despite sometimes seeing Great Dane dogs out there with long nails.

Shop Dremel on Amazon

Secondly, that short coat needs some TLC, but not all together too much. A great Dane’s coat is short, but it will still need to be brushed on a regular basis. A good brushing will help to remove any dirt or debris that might be tangled in the fur, and it also helps to distribute the natural oils that keep the coat healthy and lustrous.

See the 5″ Original Sleek EZ Great Dane Brush on Amazon

Finally, don’t forget the occasional bath! Even if your great Dane doesn’t seem particularly dirty, a good shampooing will help to ensure that their coat stays clean and free of any unwanted odors.

Seven: Mental Engagement and a High Energy Great Dane

A good old couch potato. We all know one. They’re the people who would rather spend a lazy Sunday afternoon lounging on the couch than getting out and about.

And couch potatoes aren’t just limited to humans – dogs can be couch potatoes too. However, time and time again we see people unknowingly adopting a Great Dane as they search for their ‘couch potato’ soulmate, only to find out their Great Dane actually isn’t lazy at all.

Use LOTS of treats and engage with them often! Heres some of our favorites.

Code HELLODANES10 for 10% off all Dr. Harveys products

A Great Dane can be VERY high energy.

And for high energy dogs, mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity. If a high energy dog isn’t given enough to do, they can become bored and destructive. That’s why it’s important to choose the right dog for your lifestyle.

Custom velvet collar, bowtie and leash set. Make your own here.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance pet, SOMETIMES a Great Dane puppy is the right choice. A high-quality breeder will look at your lifestyle and match you with a temperament that suits your family and needs.

Just remember, every dog is different, and you should always be prepared to provide exercise and mental stimulation for your dog- whether they are lazy or not.

Eight: E Collar Training for Your Large Breed Great Dane

A Great dane grows very fast and will become very strong at a young age. Using an e collar is one way that you can work effectively with your Great Dane (and other breeds). We support ethical Great Dane e collar training. Please do not ‘shock’ your Great Dane with a cheap shock collar from Amazon or a pet store.

E Collar Training Guide
E Collar Myths
What is an E Collar?
What is the Difference Between an E Collar and a Shock Collar?

There is a difference between a high quality e collar with a stim device inside of it and a ‘shock’ collar, which can create anxiety in your Great Dane.

Need help with modern e collar training? Check out our guide.

If you are in need of resources to help get started with an E Collar for your Great Dane, we have plenty. Check out our Great Dane E Collar Guide here.

Additionally, you can purchase an e collar for your Great Dane in our shop and receive free shipping.

Nine: Ensuring Your Dog Interacts Well with Other Dogs and Other Animals

A well socialized Great Dane loves to play with other well managed and behaved dogs, engage with humans and kids, and has proper manners.

Since the Great Dane is such a big dog, it is so important that you socialize and train them from a young age. Other breeds training is not as dependent on the dog’s age as a Great Dane, as their size rapidly increases and at a young age Great Dane dogs can be strong and powerful.

If your Great Dane is going to be spending a lot of time around other dogs as they grow up, you want to make sure that they know the expectations.

Preventing Leash Reactivity in Dogs

We do not encourage on leash greetings between two dogs that do not know one another. Many dogs have leash reactivity, and if your dog does not– it can easily be developed.

5 Leash Training Tips

Having one dog on a leash approach and say hi to another dog on a leash can be something that will cause reactivity on the leash to begin.

4 feet, 6 feet, or 8 feet options

What to do if your Dog Shows Fear Around Other Dogs or People

Some dogs are naturally more prone to anxiety (typically from bad genetics). However, Great dane dogs as a whole breed should not be timid or nervous or anxious.

If you notice that your dog is showing signs of nervousness around another dog, you should remove them from the situation before it escalates. Knowing the signs of anxiety is important.

Signs of Anxiety in a Great Dane

Anxious behaviors in dogs can look like this:
1. Panting
2. Lip licking
3. Yawning
4. Whale eye (when a dog shows the whites of their eyes)
5. Tucking their tail
6. Freezing/not moving
7. Cowering/slinking away
Overcoming Fear with your Great Dane

The best way to help your dog overcome this nervousness is to desensitize them to situations that put them into this fear in the first place.

Great Dane Puppy Fear Stages

Click Here

Spend time with your Great Dane walking around in a parking lot or sitting on a bench at the park. Let your Great Dane look around and watch, but do not let people come up and pet your dog.

Does Everyone NEED to Pet Your Great Dane?

No matter what, it is your job to show your Great Dane that it is safe to be in public and around society members. One way to show a Great Dane this safety is to make sure that they understand that they can be IN the chaos but not APART of the chaos.

Not every dog wants to meet new dogs or be pet by strangers. Over time, your Great Dane will get more comfortable with these new situations, but in the meantime- advocate for their comfortability.

Ten: Welcoming Your Great Dane as a Family Member

Welcoming a Great Dane into the family is an exciting and fun adventure. Great Dane dogs are some of the most incredible species and have so much love to give.

10 Things to Know When Bringing Home a Great Dane

In conclusion, here are some final tips for you as you embark on your Great Dane journey:

-Research, research, research! This breed is not for everyone and it is important to know what you are getting into.

-Find a reputable breeder that health tests their dogs and can provide you with references.

What makes a Great Dane breeder ‘good’?

-Be prepared to have a big pup in your life- both physically and emotionally.

-Danes require a lot of time, energy, patience, and training.

-Make sure you are willing to commit to this breed for their entire lifetime (roughly around ten years).

-Be prepared for lots of drool, slobber, and messes.

-Danes are not the best guard dogs but can make great watchdogs.

-You will quickly fall in love with this amazing breed!

Thank you for reading and we hope this was helpful! Please leave any questions or comments below!

READ MORE: E COLLAR 900 REVIEW

Is My Great Dane Puppy Knuckling?

Embark DNA Review: Worthwhile or Waste of Time? 6 Things I Learned!

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April 27, 2022
The Hardest Parts About Potty Training a Great Dane: Tips and Tricks to Make it Easier
Potty training a Great Dane is no easy feat. These dogs are big and powerful, and they can be quite stubborn when it comes to learning new things. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips and tricks that will make the process easier for both you and your dog. With a little patience and perseverance, you will be able to get your Great Dane potty trained in no time!

Potty Training a Great Dane is a LOT of Work!

Potty training a puppy is something that requires a lot of work – and it’s even more challenging when that puppy has a lot of clumsy energy and is on the go! Your Great Dane puppy is likely eager to learn, but very new to the world!

Great Danes are large dogs, and they have a lot of energy. This means that they need to go potty frequently – which can make potty training a real challenge.

However, there are some things you can do to make the process a little bit easier. First, make sure to take your puppy out often – at least every few hours. Second, be consistent with your commands and rewards. And third, be patient! It will take some time for your puppy to be fully house-trained, but eventually he’ll get the hang of it.

Let’s jump in to some foundations of how to potty train your new puppy.

Large Breed Pups and Bathroom Breaks

When it comes to potty training a large breed puppy, there are a few key things to keep in mind.

First, it is essential to create a designated potty area for your dog, such as a small patch of grass or another outdoor space. This helps with successful potty training by creating a clear distinction between potty time and playtime, making it easier for the puppy to understand when it’s time to go.

In addition, know that your new puppy may quickly seem older than they actually are. Large breed puppies grow quickly, even as a young puppy.

Great Dane Growth Chart

Their size does not correlate with their age! As a good rule of thumb, your puppy should be able to take potty breaks every hour up until about the age they are in months. For example, if your pup is 8 weeks (2 months), they will likely only be able to hold it for 2 hours.

Custom make an adorable velvet collar with your phone number and your dog’s identity on it from Pet Duro.

Finally, it is important to remember that most dogs take longer than pet parents expect of their new pet when it comes to house training, so be sure to remain patient and consistent throughout the process.

Potty Accidents and the Potty Training Process

It is absolutely inevitable that your pup is going to go to the bathroom where they are not supposed to. A puppy has no idea what it means to control their bowel movements or their pee, so it is going to happen. And that’s okay! Part of the potty training process is learning from your mistakes.

Every Dog Will Have Accidents

If your puppy has an accident, the best thing you can do is to remain calm and clean up the mess immediately. Do not scold your puppy or punish them in any way – this will only make them afraid of peeing or pooping, and with a young puppy, this can cause issues even when they become fully potty trained.

Your Puppy NEEDS Positivity!

Use positive reinforcement to congratulate your puppy when they go to the bathroom in the right spot. Take more frequent trips and potty breaks than you ever knew possible! Provide a tasty treat and small play session after their potty break. Here are some of our favorite and long lasting tasty treats for your Great Dane to reward them.

All dogs will have accidents just like human babies. Practice patience and know that even though it may seem like a big deal, puppy potty training does not last forever.

Potty Pads Create Confusion

Potty pads are marketed as an easy solution for potty training puppies. However, many puppy owners find that potty pads actually create more accidents when potty training their pups.

This is because puppies often mistake potty pads for their crate or the off-limits area in their house. Puppies have a very hard time knowing where to go to the bathroom when the option is a potty pad or designated potty area INSIDE the house.

Your Dog Might Think They are Peeing in the Right Spot

As a result, they may start to associate the pads with the wrong spot to pee. In other words, a potty pad actually just shows your puppy that they can pee in the wrong place- INSIDE!

Eliminate As Much Confusion During Potty Training

Like mentioned earlier, puppy pads can be very confusing for puppies. They may not understand that the pads are only for peeing and may start to potty anywhere in the house. For these reasons, puppy pads are not always the best option for potty training puppies. Crate training or other methods may be more effective.

Keep it Simple For Your Puppy

Instead, simplify things for your puppy or dog and work to create a routine to take your puppy outside often so that they can find their potty spot and take a potty break. Once they eliminate outside, don’t forget: TREATS!

Code HELLODANES10 for 10% off all Dr. Harveys products

Potty Training in Male Dogs

Male dogs tend to be a bit harder and more work when it comes to potty training.

There is no particular reason that female puppies tend to get potty trained faster than male puppies. However, when learning to potty train, female puppies generally are more focused and interested in learning.

Puppy vs. Adult Food

Puppy Socialization

Best Toys for Puppies

Whereas, male puppies learning to potty train are more aloof and ‘happy-go-lucky’. So, sometimes it can take a male puppy a little bit longer to get fully potty trained. However, no matter what gender, most dogs will pick up on potty training quickly with positive reinforcement and a consistent schedule.

Frequent Trips are Crucial for Your Puppy

In the early days of potty training, it’s important to take your puppy out frequently so that he can get used to eliminating in the right place. This may mean several trips outside during the day, but it will pay off in the long run and you will learn to love these special bonding times with your puppy. Just remember- soon your puppy will be a grown dog.

The Olly Backcountry treat pouch for Great Danes

The Olly smaller treat pouch

One day you will look back on these times and wish you could have just one more day with your puppy- even if it means repetitive trips outside!

Gear up with a TON of high quality treats, get your pup motivated- and you both will succeed. Here are some of our favorites. Be prepared for ‘gross’- they are made from crickets!

Chippin’ Cricket Treats are known for being a powerful food topper for digestion- and dogs LOVE them!

Just be sure to praise your puppy when he eliminates in the right place so that he knows he’s doing something good. And if your puppy has an accident inside, never punish him – just clean up the mess and try again next time.

Is House Training and Crate Training Correlated?

Many people wonder if crate training and potty training are correlated. Some sources claim that crate training can help to make it a breeze to house train, while others insist that crate training actually hinders success with house training.

In my experience, however, I have found that crate training is key to a successful potty training experience.

What is crate training?

Crate training is the process of training your puppy to feel comfortable and happy in their crate.

This may seem like an impossible task, but with a little patience and consistency, most puppies will eventually come to love their crate.

9 Tips for a Fully Trained Great Dane: Click Here

The Benefits of Crate Training Your Dog

Crate training has many benefits – not only does it help with house training, but it also provides your puppy with a safe place to sleep and relax. Keep in mind that dogs are den animals. Many puppies actually end up LOVING their crate and having their own bed and their own space.

The Best Crate for a Great Dane Puppy: Click Here

If you are interested in learning more about how to crate train your dog, make sure to check out our blog post here:

How to crate train a Great Dane: click here

Every Dog Owner Has to Decide Whether or Not To Crate Train Their Puppy or Dog

At the end of the day, whether you choose to crate train your dog or not is up to you. But if you want reliable results when it comes to potty training your furry friend, you may want to consider investing in a high quality crate for your puppy. You might be surprised that your puppy loves it all the way until they become an adult dog.

Using Dog Treats for Puppy Potty Training

If you’re a puppy parent, you know the joys and challenges that come with potty training as well as how FAST things can change from a peaceful pup to one that has to pee- and now!

One minute your puppy is cuddling with you on the couch, and the next minute they’re peeing on your carpet.

But don’t worry, there are some things you can do to make the potty training process easier for both you and your puppy- one being a whole lot of treats! Here’s some of our favs that you can actually purchase a set and make at your house!

Interested in making your own homemade treats? Coopers Treats offers kits to make your own baked treats and pupcicles.

One of the most important things is to use positive reinforcement. Every time your puppy goes potty in the right place, give them a treat or praise them. This will help them to associate going potty with something positive. We also love these Himalayan Chews, as they are long-lasting and safe.

Coopers Treats Himalayan Yak Cheese Long Lasting Chews are a fantastic and healthy way to keep any Great Dane busy for hours.

Working to Potty Proof Your House

Although you cannot change around your entire house during the time you potty train your puppy, you can certainly make small changes to help your dog learn right from wrong faster.

Baby Gates

You should puppy proof your home by putting baby gates up and keeping toys and food out of reach. This way, your puppy won’t be tempted to have an accident in the house. Keep your puppy off of carpet and primarily on hardwood floor with thin, washable runners while they are learning to potty train.

That way, if your puppy pees, it is easy to pick up the rug and throw it into the wash.

The reason you don’t want to eliminate the rugs altogether while you potty train is due to slippery floors being somewhat dangerous for your puppy and dog’s joints.

Read more about knuckling and how slippery floors can play a role here:

IS YOUR GREAT DANE PUPPY KNUCKLING?

Check out our science-based and constantly always growing knuckling resource page.

KNUCKLING RESOURCES

Does a Feeding Schedule Impact Potty Training?

There is a lot of debate over whether feeding schedules impact potty training in puppies. Some experts claim that feeding at regular intervals encourages puppies to go to the bathroom at specific times as well, making it easier for them to learn the appropriate times and places to do their business.

Others suggest that feeding regular meals just encourages puppies to hold their bladder for longer periods of time, which can result in accidents and confusion for the puppy during the potty training process.

Feeding Meals at the Same Time Every Day

Some early studies indicate that feeding meals at roughly the same time each day may be beneficial, but more research is needed in order to confirm this hypothesis.

As a puppy owner, I believe that it is important that you be consistent with feeding your pup and also encourage them to go outside on a regular basis so that they can practice good bathroom habits. Providing small, frequent meals for your puppy can be one way to help encourage them to use the bathroom often!

Do Not Withhold Water

Never withhold water while you are working to potty train your puppy, but it is probably smart to not feed your puppy or adult dog late at night, especially if they are having accidents through the night.

And remember: be patient, stay positive, and don’t get discouraged if it takes your puppy longer than expected to pick up these important skills or if your puppy eliminates in the house!

Click here to read our blog regarding the best puppy food for your Great Dane.

What Does It Mean if Older Dogs Are Having Accidents?

If you have an adult dog that is having issues with urinating or pooping in the house you should ask yourself a few questions:
1. Is my dog extremely anxious?
2. Has anything changed with my feeding schedule?
3. Is this a new behavior?
4. Is my dog experiencing any other signs or symptoms?
If the answer to questions 3 or 4 are yes, you should speak with a licensed veterinarian regarding your dog. An adult dog should not be having ‘random’ or unexplained bathroom issues in the house, and there is most likely a medical explanation.

How long do Great Danes live? Well, this sweetie named Harleigh is 10 and thriving! Read more here!

Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout

My Adult Dog Has Bathroom Issues When Anxious

Sometimes adult dogs will have bathroom issues in the house when they get extremely anxious. Anxiety or separation anxiety is a plague that impacts many dogs and puppies. Sometimes, dogs will urinate or poop as a means to express their emotions. Other dogs might demonstrate their anxiety by barking, smacking their lips, tucking their tail or destroying things in the house.

Anxiety can be managed with CBD, crate training, or socialization. Be sure to check out all three resources we have for those topics here:

CBD

Crate Training

Socialization

If your older dog is demonstrating any new behaviors that are not typical for them, especially related to their bowels or urine, you should speak with your vet. Great Danes do not have tiny bladders and should be able to hold their feces and urine for quite some times (as an adult dog), so ruling out any medical issues is important.

Does My Puppy Need Potty Breaks While I Am At Work?

Dog owners wonder if their young puppies needs to take a potty break while they are at work.

The answer is- YES – Your puppy definitely needs to have breaks while you are at work or gone throughout the day. A puppy pees about the same amount of months they are. (2 months = 2 hours).

Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout

This does not remain true past about 7 or 8 hours, however. So, if your puppy is about nine months, they should not be required to hold their pee for 9 hours. The max amount of time a dog or puppy should be asked to hold their pee or poop is about 7-8 hours (and this is for an adult dog).

But, as your puppy grows, they will be able to hold their pee for longer.

While you are teaching your puppy to potty train, it can be frustrating to have to either return home to let your dog outside or hire someone to come walk them. However, it does not last forever and soon your puppy will be completely out of the potty training stage.

Can I Potty Train with Pee Pads While I am at Work?

We recommend not being tempted to use pee pads to potty train while you are away at work. As stated earlier, a potty pad will confuse your puppy. Also, it could end up that your dog is resting or laying in its own urine or feces while you are away.

Need a Great Dane T Shirt?

Ultimately, we want our dogs to stay safe and sanitary as well as learn to the best of their advantage using positive reinforcement and encouragement.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, the hardest part about potty training a Great Dane is probably the time commitment and effort required on your part as their owner. But, with these tips and tricks you will be able to successfully potty train your dog in no time! Just remember to stay patient and consistent throughout the process. Good luck!

Do you have any other tips or tricks for potty training your pup? Let us know!

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Find a Great Dane Rescue

Off-Color & ‘Designer Color’ Great Danes, Good or Bad?
April 26, 2022
10 Things You Should Know About Owning Great Dane Dogs
Are you thinking about adding a Great Dane to your family?

If so, there are some things you should know before making that decision. Great Danes are wonderful dogs, but they require a lot of space and exercise.

They are not the best choice for everyone.

In this blog post, we will discuss 10 things that every Great Dane owner should know. We will also provide some tips on how to make sure your dog has a happy and healthy life!

What it is Like Owning Great Dane Dogs

Great Danes are one of the most popular giant breed dogs in the world. These gentle giants are large breeds who were originally bred in Germany to hunt wild boar. However, they quickly became beloved family pets due to their gentle nature and obedient personalities.

Photo Credit to Hellen (Picture of sweet Dakota!)

Photo credit to @mako.the.dane

Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout

The Great Dane is a Popular Dog

Today, Great Danes are still prized for their loyalty and affection. If you are considering owning a Great Dane, there are a few things you should know.

Is Your House Equipped?

First, Great Danes require a lot of space. They ARE, however, well suited for small homes or apartments if you are able and willing to provide the stimulation that they need.

Is Your Schedule Equipped?

Second, Great Danes are a high maintenance breed. They require regular grooming and exercise to stay healthy and happy. Finally, Great Danes puppies are notoriously mischievous. They need plenty of patience and training to become well-behaved adults.

Now, lets dive into 10 things about these Gentle Giants called Great Danes that we find important for you to know before you bring one in as a family member.

One: The Great Dane is Unlike Any Other Dog Breed

Giant breeds are special dogs that come with their own set of pros and cons. Owning a Great Dane is truly NOT like owning any other dog breed. When you decide to get a Great Dane, you should know that some factors of life with a Great Dane is unique and different to that of other dogs.

Expenses

For example, any giant breed dog is going to be VERY expensive! With a large dog comes a large EVERYTHING: large meal, large crate, large toys, and even a large car to transport them to and from the vet, etc.

Puppy vs. Adult Food

Puppy Socialization

Best Toys for Puppies

Small Spaces

Secondly, they also require a significant amount of exercise and space. Yes- both a puppy and adult Great Dane can thrive in an apartment or small space. However, you need to be willing to get them the exercise that they need.

Growing Fast

Additionally, since a Great Dane grows FAST from a young age, you need to be prepared to put in your own work with them before they become a full grown Great Dane, in order to help them become the best possible family member to your human family and other dogs.

IS YOUR GREAT DANE PUPPY KNUCKLING?

Check out our science-based and constantly always growing knuckling resource page.

KNUCKLING RESOURCES

In many ways, the Great Dane stands up to its name of the ‘Apollo of dog breeds’ – there is simply no other breed that can match its size, strength, and beauty.

Is My Great Dane Puppy Knuckling?

Two: Health Issues in Great Danes

Great Danes are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. Often considered to be gentle giants, they are known for their even temperament and affectionate nature.

However, Great Danes also come with some unique health concerns. Backyard breeders have perpetuated health issues in Great Danes.

Euro Danes: A Big, Droopy Problem
What Does Euro Mean in Great Danes?
Miniature Great Danes: The Pocket Size Version
Bad Breeders
Scam Breeders: What to Look For
Breeders: Shady Business
Should I Choose a Breeder or Rescue?

Joint Disease in Great Danes

Because they are such large dogs, they are prone to hip dysplasia and other joint problems. Older dogs, especially, may need joint supplements or pain medication to keep them comfortable.

Arthritis in Great Danes? Read here.

Cancer in Great Danes

Unfortunately, cancer is also a common health concern in Great Danes. Some giant breeds will be more prone to getting joint cancer, called Osteosarcoma, compared to other dogs. Unspayed females, over the age of hormonal development are also at risk for mammary cancer.

Bloat in Great Danes

Great Dane owners need to be aware of a problem called bloat, which can be fatal if not treated promptly. Bloat happens when a dog’s stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood flow, which causes Torsion. Bloat induced Torsion is a life threatening condition which requires emergency surgery.

Does Resting After Meals Prevent Bloat?

What are the signs of bloat?

If your Great Dane is showing signs of bloat, they will be:
1. Uncomfortable
2. Pacing or restless
3. Drooling
4. Attempting to vomit but not being able to
5. Having a distended abdomen
If you think your dog is bloating, take them to the vet immediately.

The Scary Bloat Timeline: Get Informed

Can Dog Parents Prevent Bloat?

There is no scientific measure to completely prevent bloat.

However, genetics, gut health, and anxiety have been best shown as the key triggers for bloat. Therefore, to BEST prevent bloat, choose a breeder who health tests their breed against pre-existing conditions. Work on consistently improving the gut health of your dog, and work to minimize the daily anxiety that your dog faces.

Bloat Myths: What is True and What is Not?

Reputable Breeding and Bloat

To help ensure a long and healthy life for your Great Dane, it is important to work with a reputable breeder and to take steps to prevent these common health problems. With the proper care, a Great Dane can be a loving and loyal companion for many years to come.

Three: Large Breeds Food and Diet Requirements

Food is one of the most important things for all animals, and dogs are no different. Dogs need food to fuel their bodies and to provide them with the nutrients they need to grow and stay healthy.

Great Dane Food Requirements

For larger breeds of dogs, food requirements are even more important.

Why do Large Breeds Need a Specific Diet?

Larger breeds have a rapid growth rate and require a higher quality of food than smaller dogs. When a small dog such as a tiny chihuahua may thrive on a variety of foods, a fast growing Great Dane puppy or adult need to eat a very specific diet.

Growth and Food

The food Great Dane’s, eat as a large breed dog, can make a significant impact on their overall growth. Therefore, you want to ensure that they eat something that is made specifically for big dogs.

IS YOUR GREAT DANE PUPPY KNUCKLING?

Check out our science-based and constantly always growing knuckling resource page.

KNUCKLING RESOURCES

Adult Recommendations

For a more comprehensive list of high quality foods we condone for Great Dane Adult Dogs, be sure to check out this post:

11 Best Dog Foods

Puppy Recommendations

And if you have a growing Great Dane puppy, be sure to check out some of our favorite dog kibble for a Great Dane puppy:

Quantity of Food for a Great Dane:

They also need more food overall, as their larger bodies require more calories. Check out our feeding chart for puppies to use as a general guideline here.

When choosing a high quality food for a larger breed dog, it is important to consult with a veterinarian or animal nutritionist. They can help you select the best food for your dog based on their individual needs.

Four: Are Great Danes Friendly Dogs with Other Dogs?

Great Danes, when bred ethically and raised appropriately LOVE to spend time with dogs, kids, and other animals or human family members / new people.

Unethical Breeding and Temperament

Unethical breeding has allowed timid, fearful and aggressive Great Danes to begin their way out of the woodwork.

What makes a Great Dane breeder ‘good’?

What is the Breed MEANT to Act Like?

However, as a whole, the breed is meant to be confident, fearless and peaceful. Originally called boar hounds and bred to hunt wild boar, Great Dane’s stature and demeanor was intended to be both people oriented and friendly with dogs.

Is My Great Dane Being Aggressive or Playing ?

What Should Training Look Like?

With the proper training mechanisms which should include both positive reinforcement and necessary corrections / boundaries, your Great Dane will thrive in social settings.

For more information on how we use an e collar to train this giant dog breed, be sure to check out our e collar guide and utilize it with your dog.

Training a Great Dane

Five: Getting Insurance On Your Great Dane

We cannot stress enough the importance of a pet insurance policy for your Great Dane.

Pre Existing Conditions

Remember, most insurance companies will not insure any pre-existing conditions.

So, if you wait until your dog is already sick or injured to get insurance, your policy will not cover those expenses.

Get a Policy ASAP

Get a policy as soon as you adopt or purchase your dog to ensure that you are covered in case of an unforeseen accident or illness.

Since your Gentle Giant will be more prone to health issues and those can be expensive, we recommend not waiting on getting them signed up with their policy. Look for a pet insurance policy that covers both wellness as well as emergency.

Six: Great Danes and Obedience Training

Training your Great Dane is unique compared to other pets. Because they are a large breed, your puppy will begin to grow quickly, and will be very large very fast.

5 Common mistakes you may be making when Training Your Great Dane

Train Early

Start training your Great Dane early, as soon as you bring them home. It is important to socialize them and get them used to being around people and other dogs who you trust to be a great role model for your dog. However, socialization DOES NOT always mean that they need to be interacting with other dogs or humans.

Socialization Guide

Socialization can be an abundance of fun activities, which is why we put together a Puppy Socialization Guide. You can find the guide here to find out which socialization activity is the perfect match for your Great Dane.

Seven: Do Great Danes Need a Lot of Exercise?

The exercise needed in the breed can vary from dog to dog.

How Much Exercise is Needed?

Generally speaking, Great Danes need at least 30-60 minutes of moderate daily exercise every day. However, some of Great Danes require more than this.

Running with your Great Dane

Are They Couch Potatoes?

The total amount of needed daily exercise will depend on the health, and energy level of your dog. Whatever the case, you should not plan on the breed being ‘couch potatoes’ as a whole.

Sporting Events

As a matter of fact, many Great Danes actually participate and thrive in dog sports such as agility, obedience, tracking, and even dock jumping! You can generally find these sporting events on the American Kennel Club website.

Exercise Resources

For further information on a Great Dane and exercise, feel free to read here:

What type of exercise is okay for a Great Dane?

Eight: Do Great Danes Shed?

The short answer is: YES. And, since there is simply a LOT of dog, there can be a LOT of hair.

Great Danes Have Short Hair

The breed has short hair, so you won’t have to deal with the hair getting everywhere as much as you would with a longer haired breed.

See the 5″ Original Sleek EZ Great Dane Brush on Amazon

But, they will still shed enough that you’ll need to vacuum frequently and brush them out weekly to help manage the shedding.

Recommendations for Shedding

If you are in need of recommendations on which types of brushes we like as well as to further read about what can cause unnecessary shedding within the breed, be sure to check out this post.

Do Great Danes Shed?

Nine: How Long Do Great Danes Live?

By far, the hardest part about owning a Great Dane is losing them. The ‘average’ lifespan of a Great Dane is unfortunately between 8-10 years.

How long do Great Danes live? Well, this sweetie named Harleigh is 10 and thriving! Read more here!

Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout

Contributing Factors to a ‘Short’ Lifespan

However, bad breeding is one aspect that lowers this average. Some well-bred Great Danes have been known to outlive this average. Some have even lived up to 12-14 years.

The Importance of Ethical Breeding

Want to play ‘Bad Breeder Bingo’? Click here!

Bad Breeder Resources

We put together some resources on bad breeding, be sure to check them out if you are interested in getting your own Great Dane.

Bad Breeder Hall of Shame

Bad Breeders Info

Scam Breeders

Ten: The Grand Danois: Should I Bring Home the Apollo of Dogs?

In our opinions, despite the difficulty or unique hardships that the Great Dane ‘Greek God’ might bring as a whole, you will never find another love like the ‘Apollo of Dogs’.

Great Danes are one of the most gentle, loving, and loyal companions that you could ask for. They will quickly become a part of your family and will always be by your side.

Once you have fully researched the breed, understand what it might look like for your family to have your very own ‘Scooby Doo’, and feel like you are ready, we know that it will be an adventure of a lifetime.

We hope this article has helped you understand some key things to know before owning a Great Dane. If you have any questions or would like to add anything, please feel free to reach out or join our Facebook community by clicking the image below.

READ MORE:

The Top 5 Adorable Facts About Great Danes

The 2 Sided Debate: Great Dane Ear Cropping

What Kind of Dog is Scooby Doo? The Many Mysteries of Scooby’s Thrilling Breed
April 22, 2022
Walking a Great Dane on a Leash
Taking a Great Dane for a walk doesn’t have to be a challenging experience filled with pulling and stress. However, many of us have experienced that exact problem! Given their size and tenacity, untrained Great Danes have the tendency to turn the tables. They end up walking us instead. If walking a Great Dane on a leash calmly and gently is something you would like to do properly, this article is for you!

This article covers:
- The dangers of Great Danes with bad leash manners
- How to teach Great Dane puppies to walk on a leash
- Training tips for teaching adult Great Danes to stop pulling
- The best tools and gear for Great Danes
1. Leash Skills Matter for Great Danes

Inappropriate leash skills can actually cause damage to both you and your pets.

It is essential to train your Great Dane the appropriate way to walk on a leash. Not only will this make public times more enjoyable for both of you, but it can also prevent health problems that can occur from pulling on the leash.

Damage to Dogs from Poor Leash Skills

Some common problems that can arise from incorrect leash skills are joint damage, neck and back injuries, and tracheal damage.

These injuries most commonly happen while training dogs when the dogs yank extremely hard. This hard pulling causes the Great Dane’s owners to feel the need to yank back in order to gain control. This tension between owner and dogs can create extreme unnecessary strain on a large breed dog’s neck.

Injury to an Owner’s Back/Neck from Negative Leash Skills

Owners too, can get injuries from large breed dogs who are stronger than them and eager to yank on walks.

If your dog is excited and sees a rabbit or other dog, they can yank so hard that you might be pulled off your feet. This can cause serious injuries to your back or neck.

Additionally, if they are ‘chronic pullers’, your back / spine / neck will get fatigued and your muscles can begin to feel sore or painful.

Training your Great Dane to act correctly in public from the start will save you both a lot of pain and frustration in the long run.

2. Teaching a Great Dane Puppy How to Walk on a Leash

Teaching a Great Dane puppy to walk on a leash involves patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Here are some steps you can follow:
1. Start Early:
  Begin leash training as early as possible, ideally when your Great Dane is still a puppy. This helps them develop positive associations with the leash and prevents the formation of bad habits.
2. Get the Right Equipment:
  We recommend using a wide, flat martingale collar which is escape proof and safe as long as the puppy is not pulling. Read HERE for why we do not recommend front-clip “no-pull” harnesses or Gentle Leader head collars.
3. Introduce the Leash:
  Let your puppy get used to the leash by allowing them to investigate it in a controlled environment. Praise and reward them for any positive interaction with the leash.
4. Associate Positive Experiences:
  Associate the leash with positive experiences. For example, put the leash on before mealtime or playtime. This helps create positive associations with the leash.
5. Indoor Practice:
  Start leash training indoors where there are fewer distractions. Allow your puppy to drag the leash around while supervised, praising them for walking calmly.
6. Short Walks:
  Begin with short walks in a quiet and familiar environment. Keep the walks positive and enjoyable. Use treats and praise to reward your puppy for walking nicely on the leash.
7. Avoid Pulling:
  If your puppy starts pulling, stop walking. Do not move forward until they return to your side. Reward them for walking beside you.
8. Consistency is Key:
  Be consistent with your commands and rewards. Use the same cues and rewards every time you walk. Consistency helps your puppy understand what is expected.
9. Gradual Exposure:
  Gradually expose your puppy to different environments, people, and other dogs while on the leash. This helps them become accustomed to various stimuli.
10. Positive Reinforcement:
  Always use positive reinforcement. Reward good behavior with treats, praise, or play. This encourages your puppy to repeat the desired behavior.
11. Patience and Calmness:
  Stay patient and calm during the training process. Avoid getting frustrated, as puppies can sense your emotions. Training should be a positive and enjoyable experience for both of you.
Remember, every puppy is unique, so adjust your training approach based on your Great Dane’s individual needs and temperament. If you encounter specific challenges, consider seeking guidance from a professional dog trainer.

3. Using a Long Leash with Your Great Dane Puppy

Using a long leash is a valuable tool when training calm leash skills and recall in Great Dane puppies.

The extended length provides them with a sense of freedom while maintaining control. During training sessions, start in a secure and spacious area, allowing the puppy to explore and move around with the extended lead.

PRO TIP: We highly recommend doing this in LOW distraction areas where there is no chance your excited Great Dane puppy will wrap themselves around another dog or human they encounter!

Reinforce positive behavior by rewarding them for walking calmly beside you and responding to recall commands. The length of the leash allows for gradual distance increases, promoting a strong recall response.

As the puppy becomes accustomed to the long leash, it serves as a bridge to off-leash training, fostering a sense of reliability and trust between the owner and the Great Dane. Consistency, positive reinforcement, and gradual progression are key elements in utilizing a long leash effectively for cultivating both leash manners and recall abilities in these large and lovable puppies.

Do not forget to reward your Great Dane Puppy!

As they respond to your commands and learn to stay close, reward your Great Dane puppy with lots of training treats. Your pup will probably look clumsy while beginning to leash train and they might even get tangled up in the long leash. That is okay!

We recommend using your puppies kibble to reinforce and reward these skills. You can also use small amounts of high-value treats such as cheese, Charlee Bear, and Ziwi Peak!

4. How to Choose the Best Leash for a Great Dane Puppy

You might think it is okay to choose any collar, any harness, or any leash for your Great Dane puppy or even adult Great Dane. However, each item should be chosen with care!

5. Using a harness for a Great Dane

We do not recommend the use of a harness. There has been some small studies done that show the use of a harness actually can change the way your Great Dane puppy and adult Great Dane begins to walk and move. The harness can add additional strain on your dane, causing them to pull harder and changing the way that their body allows them to move.

6. Which collar is best for training purposes

You will need to make a decision whether or not you will like to e collar train your Great Dane. We are advocates of ethical, balanced e collar training. You can find an abundance of e collar training resources in our ecollar guide below.

However, never attach a leash onto the e collar. You will need an additional collar to attach your Great Dane onto with a leash. Great Danes and other dogs should never have a leash attached to their e collar.

Standard collars come in all sorts of designs, colors, patterns and fabrics. We recommend prioritizing one that fits correctly, is washable or wipeable and that is suitable for a big dog. Great Dane owners will likely need to purchase multiple collars: one for their puppy, possibly one for a teenager Great Dane, and another for adult Great Danes.

Taking Your Great Dane Puppy on a Walk on a Leash

When leash training a Great Dane puppy, start with your first outdoor walk on a leash in an environment with as few distractions as possible – inside the house or in the backyard are good places to start. This time, you will be using a standard length leash. Choose a space with enough room to move, but not so much space that you cannot conduct safe and effective Great Dane walking skills.

Start with short distances

Great Danes are active dogs who need lots of mental stimulation and play as well as training. However, leash training should be done in short spurts so that your puppy has positive association and learns that when it is time to train they will not get exhausted by being asked to walk.

Grab some treats and get ready to walk!

Choose a spot that you know your Great Dane will be safe and free from distractions. Have your puppy wear the leash for short periods of time at first, gradually increasing the amount of time as they get used to it. Start to walk with your Great Dane for a few steps, then stop your puppy and say their name to get eye contact. Then ask your dane to sit. If their bottom moves downward into a sit position, say the marker word ‘YES’, and reward heavily!

Short, frequent breaks and praise while training to walk

Reward your puppy with treats or praise whenever they walk calmly on a leash or listen to other commands like sit. Great Danes are a growing, large and strong breed so it is of utmost importance to lead them by a confident, calm and peaceful example. They are also extremely intuitive and will pick up on their owners nerves and feelings.

7. Why does eye contact with Great Danes make such a difference?

Also, there can never be too much praise when your Great Dane gives you eye contact. You want to ensure that your Great Dane LOVES to look at you–especially when you are outside and there are so many other fun things to look at. Other dogs, squirrels, people, or noises/smells can take attention of your puppy off of you. But with guidance and training your Dane can learn that you are just as exciting as the distractions.

And be patient – remember that puppies have shorter attention spans than adults, so have shorter training sessions and give lots of patience with your Great Dane puppy!

8. What to do if Your Great Dane Pulls on the Leash

Leash training is a lifelong skill and you might not get the desired behavior right away. Additionally, leash training requires you to continue training throughout the entire life of your Great Dane.

If your Great Dane is pulling on the leash, there are a few things you can do to correct the behavior. First, make sure that your dog is wearing a collar that fits properly. A loose collar can provide too much slack, making it easy for your dog to pull.

Second, keep your walks short at first and gradually increase the distance as your dog gets better at walking on a leash.

Third, be consistent with your commands and rewards. Every time your dog walks calmly beside you, give them a treat or verbal praise.

Next, try to practice in areas with little distractions

Finally, don’t forget to have patience; leash training is a lifelong skill and it will take time for your dog to learn how to walk calmly on a leash.

9. Going from Stressful Leash Walks to Enjoyable Leash walking

When your dog pulls on the leash, you may feel like you’re in for a long walk. However, with a little patience and practice, you can help your dog how to heel and make walks more enjoyable for both of you. To start, stand still for a few seconds after you put the leash on your dog. This will give your pup time to settle down and get used to the leash. Then, begin to walk, very slow, taking only a few steps before stopping again.

Moving into longer distanced walks and Great Dane leash training

Once your dog realizes that he needs to stay by your side, you can start going for longer distances. If at any point during the walk your dog begins to pull ahead, simply stop and wait until he sits back down at your feet. Waiting for your Great Dane to sit is extremely helpful. However, getting that eye contact is of equal importance. Make your eyes super enticing by pulling a treat up to your eye level so that their eyes are lead to your own. This action is training your Great Dane (and other dogs) that by looking to you for guidance they will be rewarded.

Make sure to bring along lots of treats and reward heavily when the pulling resides.

10. The Best Leash for Great Dane Leash Training

The type of leash you use can make a big difference in how successful your training is.

A long leash can be used for more spacious walks once your dog is able to be given more freedom. Long leashes can also be great tools to teach recall. Some long leads are linked below for your convenience.

A short leash is a good choice for more day-to-day practice, as it will give you more control over your dog and prevent them from getting tangled up. The following suggestions can be purchased in 4 feet, 6 feet or 8 feet.

Retractable leashes are not recommended, as they can be difficult to control and may cause your dog to get tangled up.

We recommend being cautious when using a harness or a fancy retractable leash. Most harnesses can cause joint / conformation issues because they put all the pressure on your dog’s chest instead of their back. A standard collar and leash is the best way to go when first starting out with training.

11. How to Teach Leash Manners in the Midst of Distractions

When you’re out with your dog, it’s important to be able to stop them from pulling on the leash or running off after squirrels without losing your cool. Here are a few tips to teach your dog to not pull in the midst of distractions.

First, start with basic obedience commands like sit and stay. Once your dog has mastered these commands in a low-distraction environment, you can begin working on stop walking in areas with more distractions.

If your dog starts to pull or run off after something, simply stop walking. Once they look back at you, start walking again. Direct your Great Dane to give you their attention by showing them that you have treats, and pulling the treats up to your eyes to get good eye contact.

Repeat this process until your dog is responding consistently. With patience and practice, you’ll be able to teach your dog stop leash pulling even in the most distracting situations.

In Conclusion:

In conclusion, with a little patience and practice, you can transform stressful times into enjoyable ones. The key is to be consistent with your commands and rewards, and to keep training sessions short so that your dog doesn’t get overwhelmed. With time and patience, you’ll be able to work with your dog how to heel and have calm, pleasant walks together.
April 18, 2022
9 of the Best Tips to Having a Trained Great Danes
Having trained Great Danes is something every Great Dane owner wants to accomplish.

Photo Credit to Hellen at Mumukodogsquad (Picture of sweet Dakota!)

Photo Credit to Hellen at Mumukodogsquad (Picture of sweet Dakota!)

There’s something about a Great Dane that just makes you fall in love. They are gentle giants, and make perfect pets for families with children. They are also one of the most popular dog breeds in the world.

However, a Great Dane requires major obedience training. With proper basic training from an early age, socialization, and positive reinforcement, you can train your Great Dane to use the behavior that you desire.

Trained Great Danes require everyday life training sessions

In this blog post, we will discuss 9 simple tips to incorporate in your dog training with your Great Danes that will make you love them even more!

Then, we will discuss how you can start training your Great Dane with these basic tips that any owner can incorporate with their large breed dog from a young age.

Need help with modern e collar training? Check out our guide.

One: Teach Your Great Dane Basic Potty Training Skills

House training your new Great Dane puppy is an essential skill for any dog owner. The good news is that working to potty train your pup is relatively easy, and it’s a great way to bond with your new Great Dane.

Create a Designated Area that your Great Dane Puppy can Potty

The first step is to create a designated potty area; this can be either inside or outside, depending on your preferences.

Great Dane Puppies Potty Frequently

Once you have a potty area, you’ll need to take your new puppy there frequently, preferably after each meal. When your Great Dane puppy does his business in the potty area, be sure to praise him lavishly; this will help him understand that he’s doing what you want him to do.

Ear Infection? No Problem

Overnight Pottying for Your Great Dane Puppy

The rule of thumb for any Great Dane puppy is that they can hold their bladder for one hour per month of age. So, a three-month-old Great Dane puppy can hold it for three hours overnight. So, if you have a new Great Dane dog, plan to let them out throughout the night in order to help them be successful.

Have Patience with Training Your Great Dane Puppy Potty Training

Finally, keep in mind that accidents will happen; if your pup has an accident indoors, simply clean it up and do not ‘punish’ puppies for having accidents in the house. Getting angry at your puppy for going potty in the house is not the best method to teaching them. A new Great Dane puppy needs to be shown this basic command before it knows right from wrong. Additionally, your Great Dane puppy often does not have control over its bladder.

Two: Using a Crate: Positive Training with your Great Dane

Using a crate is an effective way to train your Great Dane and establish obedience.

Crate training should be used in conjunction with positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, as the primary training method.

How to crate train a Great Dane: click here

Why does Crate Training Help Great Danes?

Crate training will help your puppy or adult Great Dane learn how to stay in one place and follow commands from the owner.

Crate training is also a good way to teach your Great Dane how to be quiet when required, such as during crate rest periods. When choosing to crate train a Great Dane, dog owners help their Great Dane to learn how to take a break.

Stress, Anxiety and Overall Behavior with Great Dane Training and Crates

Dogs that are crate trained tend to be less stressed and more obedient overall, which makes for a happier owner-dog relationship. Proper crate training takes time and patience, but the rewards are well worth it for both you and your dog.

Three: Working on Great Dane Training to Stop the Constant Barking

Dogs bark for a variety of reasons, from excitement and fear to hunger and boredom. While some level of barking is perfectly normal, excessive barking can be frustrating for both dog and owner.

Do Great Danes Shed?

Great Dane Training and Barking

Great Danes can be prone to excessive barking, but with patience and consistency, you can teach your dog to stop the constant yapping. As with all training, it’s important to start with basic commands such as sit, stay, and come.

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Understanding Why Your Great Dane is Barking

Before you train a Great Dane to stop barking, you have to understand why they are demonstrating this behavior in the first place.

Your Great Dane could be barking for a variety of reasons:
1. To get your attention: If your Great Dane is barking and you immediately give them what they want (e.g., attention, food, water, etc.), they will quickly learn that this is an effective way to get what they want from you.
2. To alert you of something: If your Great Dane is barking and there’s truly something worthy of your attention (e.g., someone at the door, another dog in the yard, etc.), they may just be trying to tell you that something is going on.
3. Out of boredom or loneliness: If your Great Dane is left alone for long periods of time with nothing to do, they may bark out of boredom or loneliness.
4. Because they are anxious: If your Great Dane is anxious or fearful of something (e.g., loud noises, unfamiliar people or animals, etc.), they may bark as a way to try and calm themselves down.
5. As an expression of excitement: If your Great Dane is excited about something (e.g., going for a walk, seeing you after being away, etc.), they may bark as a way to show their excitement.
6. Because they have not gotten enough exercise: A dog that is not given enough exercise is often the type that will bark out of boredom or frustration.
If your Great Dane is barking excessively, it’s important to figure out why they are doing this so you can address the underlying issue. Once you know why your dog is barking, you can begin working on Great Dane training to stop the bark.

Training Dogs to Stop Barking

Once your Great Dane has a good understanding of these commands, you can begin working on specific behaviors, like barking.

Five: Training your Great Dane to Walk on Leash

Leash training your Great Dane can be a bit of challenge, as they are a strong dog breed. However, with patience and consistency, you can train your dog to walk calmly on a leash.

Viper 15ft Training Lead

Leather Dog Leash

Leather Slip Leash

It Takes Practice to Leash Train Your Great Dane

Introduce your dog or puppy to collar and leash time.

Start out by letting him wear a harness or collar for short periods in your house while you play with him. Make sure to give lots of treats; this will help form an association between wearing those things because it means food (and fun!) Waste no energy training without rewarding results!

Use a ‘Marker Word’ to Tell Your Dog Which Behavior You Like

To get your puppy excited and eager to learn commands related to the leash, teach him a marker word. You can choose any word, like ‘YES’ or other.

Once you say the word, offer treats when he looks at you or turns his head in response. Repeat this process several times until it becomes routine for both of you – just be sure not make any loud noises during training so that distractions don’t arise unexpectedly later on down the road.

It is best to begin training all commands inside, rather than outside. Your dog will face many distractions outside, such as other dogs, people, and noises.

You want your dog to be focused on you during training sessions so he can learn the commands quickly and easily. Once he masters the commands inside, you can begin taking him outside for short leash walks around the block.

Train Your Dog to Walk Towards you with the Marker Word and a Reward / Treat

Once your dog learns identify that the marker word signifies something positive (a treat), you can begin to practice getting your dog to walk towards you. Start in a room with little distraction to help your puppy learn what it means when you call him. Offer treats and praise as he gets used walking towards you on command. By using the leash around his neck, use the marker word and apply small pressure on you puppies neck. When they begin to walk towards you- be sure to heavily reward positive obedience with praise and a treat!

Heading Outside with Your New Dog or Puppy

When you take your new pup outside for his first training, it’s important that they know it is not socialization time. If you have other pets, be sure to prioritize one-on-one time with this specific dog, rather than bringing along all of your dogs.

Make sure the environment is welcoming and calming so he has no reason to be scared or anxious on this exciting step towards positivity in your dog’s behavior!

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Start by taking short walks while noting any distractions such as things which seem interesting enough (but not too much)to lunge towards; if these occur keep moving away slowly until they forget about what distracted them originally – then reward accordingly with a marker word and a treat.

If you notice that your dog seems to lose attention on you when he sees other dogs, direct his attention back towards you and reward him when he gives you eye contact. Great Danes are a giant breed dog and their sheer size along is enough to need to make sure that they do not pull, lunge, or otherwise strain.

Then, during a training session, walk with your dog at your side while rewarding them for calm behavior. If they start to pull on the leash, stop walking and wait for them to settle down before continuing. With time and practice, your dog will learn that walking calmly on a leash is rewarded, and pulling is not.

Finally, remember to be patient and consistent with your training – Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a well behaved dog.

Seven: Introducing your Great Dane to Other Pets or Other Dogs

One of the most important things you can do when you first get your Great Dane is to properly socialize him. This does not necessarily mean introducing him to as many different people, places, and animals as possible, but can be.

You should start socialization training when your puppy is between seven and eight weeks old. The earlier you start, the better.

The best way to socialize a dog is to bring them around chaotic environments but do not force or even allow interactions.

Puppy vs. Adult Food

Puppy Socialization

Best Toys for Puppies

Parking lots are great ways to ‘socialize’ your dog. Think of it as people watching.

Take your dog with you on normal life trips to a friends house or sit outside of a busy shop and let your dog hear new sounds. Be weary of letting everybody pet your dog. Getting pet by strangers can tell your dog that they are the center of the attention and chaos, when we actually just want them to exist within the chaos.

Additionally, sometimes dogs can get anxiety when being pet by random people and we want to set them up for success in being pet later in life. Therefore, choose wisely when you let others pet your puppy.

Socialization is important, but over-socialization is a real thing and can create a dog that is fearful of new environments or situations.

A well socialized dog is not afraid of new things, but is okay with them. He should be able to take anything new in stride and not be phased by it. If you find your dog is getting frequent exposure to noises, smells and new things, they will be set up to not be fearful in the future.

Eight: Choosing a Puppy Class or Training Program

One of the best things you can do for your new puppy is sign up for a puppy program or training program.

A good puppy class will teach your pup basic obedience commands, such as sit, stay, come and down.

5 Common mistakes you may be making when Training Your Great Dane

Puppy classes also provide an opportunity for socialization, which is critical during the first year.

You do not, however want to sign up for just any class. Be careful to select a trainer who is certified to award the Good Citizen Canine certificate to your dog.

You can usually find a balanced trainer who will work your dog through the Good Citizen Canine program on the AKC site.

Classes at places like Petsmart we do not recommend as their training method typically does not align with ours and sometimes they have inexperienced trainers.

Nine: Using Treats to Your Advantage in the House

Treats are an all-time favorite with any dog breed. Use healthy and delicious snacks to incentivize your giant breed to demonstrate positive behavior and learn, simple commands or other commands. Training Great Danes can be tough, but using a reward system helps tremendously.

When you are working to train your Dane, make sure to keep treats with you at all times.

As soon as your dog demonstrates a behavior that you like, give him a treat immediately. This will help him understand that he is being rewarded for going to the demonstrated act.

Below are some of our favorite treats to use for Great Danes or any other dog breed.

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In Conclusion

Great Danes are amazing dogs that will provide you with a lifetime of companionship. By following the tips above, you can be sure to set your Dane up for success.

Do you have any other tips for training Great Danes? Share them in the comments below!
April 15, 2022
Great Dane Dry Skin: 4 Causes and 4 Treatments
Great Dane Dry Skin- a topic that many people struggle with. The winter months can be harsh on our skin, and the same is true for our Great Danes and other dogs. In this blog post, we will discuss how to keep your Great Dane healthy, reduce itchy skin, and help treat skin problems such as yeast or extreme or secondary skin infections.

The cold weather can cause dryness, cracking, and even infection if not treated properly. Likewise, some dog breeds struggle with secondary infections in the summer for alternative reasons. Keep reading for tips on how to protect your dog from the elements!

Great Dane Dry Skin: Common Signs of Normal Skin vs. One with Health Concerns

It’s easy to tell when our dog is having a bad day. They might be a little off their food, have less energy or be grumpy. However, it’s not always so easy to tell when our dog is having a skin concern. That’s why it’s important to know the signs of normal, well adjusted skin vs. one with health concerns in dogs.

Photo Credit to Hellen at Mumukodogsquad (Picture of sweet Dakota!)

Photo Credit to Hellen at Mumukodogsquad (Picture of sweet Dakota!)

What does healthy skin look like in Great Danes?

Some common things to look for in normal skin include a thick coat, no hair loss, a shiny coat and overall good health. In a healthy dog, their coat will not experience hair loss. Your Gentle Giant will have thick and clear of any skin infection.

What does unhealthy skin look like in Great Danes?

On the other hand, some signs of coat and skin health concerns include excessive shedding, bald spots, dry or flaky skin and clinical signs of allergies. You may notice that your Great Dane has scaly patches. If they experience hair loss, they might have trouble when trying to regrow hair.

Ear Infection? No Problem

Speak to your veterinarian for treatment

If you notice any of these signs in your dog, it’s important to take them to see a veterinarian for advice. You can also treat some of these issues at home. Some Great Dane skin ailments are easily treated at home, but some will be more difficult and can get worse if left untreated.

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Causes of Skin Diseases in Your Great Dane

Skin issues in Great Danes can be caused by a number of factors, including infections from bacteria, diseases, secondary infections, and skin conditions.

One: Bacterial Infections and How they Impact Your Great Dane

Bacterial infections are one of the most common cause of skin ailments in Great Danes. Great Danes typically get an infection from bacteria from dirty water or something else that was contaminated.

What happens if my dog has a skin infection from bacteria?

Your Great Dane may require hospitalization and IV fluids to combat infections. Blood tests are used for monitoring the success and overall health of your Great Dane. The methods in which your vet chooses to treat your Great Dane’s skin can include antibiotics or other medications prescribed.

The Best Toys For Great Danes

The Best Toys for Great Danes

The treatment itself will depend on the bacteria in question. If the bacteria is not harmful it can still weaken your Great Dane’s immune systems so they get sicker than usual when infected – this means there will be more signs like vomiting etc. Typically, at least one major symptom might appear alongside the dogs issue, which is diarrhea.

What issues do skin infections cause when caused by bacteria?

Secondary infections can also develop from the bacteria that cause the initial infection. Skin conditions, such as dryness, itchiness, redness or infections, can also lead to the development of more chronic problems. The best way to prevent conditions in Great Danes is to keep their skin clean after playing in dirty water, and free of any irritants or contaminants.

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Two: Food Allergies in Great Danes Can Cause Infection

Food allergies are one of the most common skin problems in Great Danes. The symptoms of food allergies can include irritation, hair loss, dry coat, and hot spots. While many people assume that food allergies are caused by an intolerance to certain ingredients, the reality is that food allergies are often caused by an imbalance of nutrients.

‘True’ Great Dane Food \ Allergies

Photo Credit to Tina Schneider

Photo Credit to Tina Seigel

Photo Credit to Hellen (Picture of sweet Dakota!)

Does Your Great Dane Lack Important Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids?

Alternatively, if you think your Great Dane lacks nutrients, you will want to add supplements to their diet. A lack of omega-3 fatty acids can lead to dry area and inflammation. As a result, it’s important to choose a food that is rich in nutrients and fatty acids and free from allergens. When it comes to Great Dane’s skin care, essential fatty acids and fish oil is essential for maintaining a healthy coat. These nutrients help to protect the hair follicles from damage and keep them hydrated. In addition, fatty acids from fish oil help to reduce inflammation and promote a healthy coat on your dog, preventing further hair loss or irritation.

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

Medicated Shampoo for Grass Allergy

If you notice allergies and hair loss on your Great Dane, and think it is due to a grass allergy, you can use a medicated shampoo to help sooth the irritation. Quite a lot of dogs are allergic to grass. Therefore, if your Great Dane gets hot spots from playing in the grass, you can use a shampoo that has specific medication for hair loss.

Note: Many veterinarians suggest not using essential oils or tea tree oil on your dog. Instead, try a shampoo based in aloe vera or oatmeal as it is much safer for dogs.

Three: Yeast Issues in Dogs are a Huge Issue

For dog owners, there are few things more frustrating than dealing with a yeast infection. Not only are they highly contagious, but they can also be extremely difficult to get rid of. You will want to do a skin scraping procedure of your Great Dane. Otherwise, it can be difficult to know if you are actually dealing with yeast.

Treatment Options for a Dog with Yeast

The good news is that there are a number of treatment options available. Medicated shampoos and topical creams can help to kill the yeast on your Great Dane and prevent further growth.

Supplements for Yeast on Dogs

Additionally, supplements and homeopathic remedies can be used to support the immune system and promote healing. In some extreme cases, such as Demodex mange, treatment may need to be continued for several months in order to completely eliminate the infection. However, with patience and persistence, most dogs can be successfully treated for yeast infections.

Diet for Yeast in Dogs

Finally, diet plays a key role in preventing and treating yeast infections. Dogs with yeast infections should be fed a diet that is low in sugar and carbohydrates. In addition, probiotics can help to restore the natural balance of good bacteria in the gut, which can help to prevent yeast overgrowth. Choose a food that works in correspondence to battle their yeast, even if it is just temporary.

Four: Your Great Dane’s Immune System Could Create Health Problems

As a pet owner, you may be concerned about your dog’s ability to fight off common issues. After all, a strong defense mechanism is essential for good health.

Does your Great Dane have a Low Immune System?

Unfortunately, some dogs are born with a low immune system, which can lead to health problems later in life. Great Danes are meant to be working dogs with strong survival skills. However, backyard breeding and poor breeding overall has increased the chances for your Great Dane to struggle with common ailments.

What Should Be Done to Give Your Great Dane the Ability to Fight off Illness?

There are steps you can take to help your dog build a strong and functioning body that can fight off health issues.
1. For example, amino acids and vitamin E are essential for a healthy and functioning system.
2. You can also provide your dog with a high-quality food / diet and plenty of exercise.
3. Make sure to provide fresh, clean water.
4. Avoid putting your Great Dane in extremely stressful situations that might give them anxiety. (If you are going to be working with them on overcoming that stressful situation, be sure to prepare them ahead of time with the tools they need to overcome them. Great Danes should NOT be an anxious dog breed, but many are being overly bred and have become more anxious compared to other dog breeds. Check out our puppy socialization guide here.
5. Mental stimulation will keep your Great Dane engaged and happy and help to avoid mental dullness or them getting bored.
6. Encourage your Great Dane to play regularly, socialize them with good peers, and
By taking these steps, you can help help your dog’s immune system get stronger and give them a better chance at keeping dry or itchy problems at bay as well as fighting off any infection.

Four: Weather Plays a Role on Your Great Dane and their Hair

Your Great Dane’s hair is is very dependent on the weather. It’s important to understand that hair is not just for looks, but it also serves an important function in regulating body temperature. However, hair can also be susceptible to specific problems depending on the weather.

How does Summer Impact Skin Allergies and Hair?

For example, too much sun can cause dryness and irritation as well as sunburn. If you have a white or Harlequin Great Dane, you will need to use a dog-friendly sunscreen to avoid sunburn. Specifically the head of white dogs is very prone to being sunburned.

If you have a black dane, blue dane, or merle dane, they are less prone to being sunburned, however can still experience dry skin and skin allergies in the summer.

Does the Winter Months Affect a Great Dane and Make them More Dry?

In the winter or spring months, it’s important to keep your dog’s hair dry to avoid yeast infections. Because moisture getting stuck in their hair can harbor yeast, be sure to dry them thoroughly after playing in the snow or rain.

What are the best remedies for a large breed dog with skin allergies?

There are a few things you can do to help your Great Dane with dry or irritable itches including regular grooming care, supplements, pain management, and

One: Regularly Grooming your Great Dane will Help

Keeping up with brushing your Great Dane’s skin and coat, keeping moisture and reducing shedding will help them feel less itchy and irritable. Regularly groom your dog and bathe them in warm water using a mild, hypoallergenic shampoo.

Do Great Danes Shed?

Be Careful with their Head and Ears: a Yeast Warning

When you are bathing them, make sure to take extra care with their head, as to avoid excessive water getting into their ears. Lingering water in their ears can cause yeast to grow inside of their ears. Great Danes have short hair and should be brushed with an appropriate brush. This will help to remove any allergens that might be stuck in their fur.

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Two: Provide Supplements that are Suitable for your Large Breed Dog

11 Best Dog Foods for Great Danes

Puppies require a different diet than adult Danes. We will share some of our favorite puppy foods below.

Lastly, speak to a veterinarian whom you trust about medications that are helpful for your dog and those that might not be. For us, we have seen many stories of tick prevention medications that pet owners give their dogs for fleas and ticks causing issues with giant breed dogs. There are enough warnings / stories to at least be weary.

Three: Sooth your Dane’s Irritation with At-Home Remedies

If your dog is having pain, irritation or itching from an abundance of reasons, there are things you can do at home to help sooth their pain. Be sure to watch the below video for some wonderful suggestions.

Aloe, Coconut Oil, and other Products for Shiny Skin and Coat

Knowing products that are helpful is important. You will learn them as you go and as you experience unique and different issues with your pup. Here are a few helpful ones we have seen work with other dogs.

Aloe Vera

Aloe can be a great topical to keep on hand for your dog if they are itching, irritated or inflammed. You can either grow your own aloe or buy it at the store. Use aloe by breaking off a leaf and applying the gel directly to your dog’s body where you notice the most redness or irritation. You can also add aloe to their shampoo or make an aloe spray by adding water and spraying it on their coat.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has become increasingly popular in recent years for humans and animals alike. It can be used to sooth and moisturize dry and itchy bodies, hot spots, minor wounds and more. You only need a small amount since coconut oil goes a long way. Coconut oil can also be ingested safely- so giving your pup a small amount daily can help as it has anti inflammatory properties.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Another great at home remedy is apple cider vinegar. This can be used in a spray bottle or added to your dog’s bath water. It helps with hot spots, itchy skin, and bug bites.

One thing to keep in mind is that you should always test a small patch of skin before applying any new product to your dog’s body.

Ear Issues

If your Great Dane is experiencing redness, irritation, pain or itching in their ears, do not hesitate to use the product called Xymox. It is a ‘God-send’ for Great Dane owners, providing immediate soothing relief and long-lasting results inside the ears.

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

Hot Spot Relief

A hot spot is an area of your dog’s body that is red, inflamed and painful. They can be caused by allergies, insect bites, poor grooming, and more.

If your dog has a hot spot, you will want to monitor it closely. If it begins to ooze yellow or green, you need to get to the vet right away as they can become infected very easily. In the meantime, you can sooth the area with a cool compress or a topical at-home remedy to help the area become back to normal.

Can CBD Help Dogs?

Colloidal Oatmeal Baths

One way to sooth your dog from itching or dryness is by giving them a colloidal oatmeal bath. You can purchase pre-made mixes or make your own by grinding oats into a powder. Next, you will use colloidal silver, being cautious of which brand you choose. Add the powder of oatmeal and a small amount of the colloidal silver to lukewarm water and let your dog soak for about 15 minutes.

Yeast Relief

If you have a Great Dane with yeasty issues, consider making a few changes to their routine.
1. You must ensure that they remain dry. If they play in water, they need to be thoroughly dried.
2. Consider using the Yeasty Beasty Protocol from Adored Beast. (DEARDANES15 for 15% off)
3. Consider examining their dog food. Many yeast allergens stem from food allergies, specifically grains. Eliminating grains temporarily can help to starve the yeast.
4. Don’t forget to clean their bedding and crates often. Bacteria and yeast can live in fabric and spread easily.
5. Wash all of their toys, leashes, and collars in hot water frequently as well.
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Four: Consider an Elimination Diet

If you’ve tried everything and your Dane is still struggling with dryness and itchiness- it may be time to consider an elimination diet.

An elimination diet is when you remove all potential allergens from their diet and then slowly reintroduce them one at a time. This allows you to pinpoint which ingredient is causing the issue.

You will want to work with your vet to make sure you are doing this correctly and safely. They can help you to figure out which food is best to use as your base diet and how to slowly add things back in.

Elimination diets can be time-consuming, but they are often worth it in the end.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many things you can do to help sooth your Great Dane’s dry and itchy body. Try a few of these at-home remedies and see which works best for your pup. If you’ve tried everything and nothing seems to be working, speak with your vet about other options that might be more intensive.

Dryness, irritation, redness and inflammation can be frustrating for both you and your dog, but with a little trial and error- you’ll find something that works!

Do you have any tips for helping Great Dane experiencing dryness or irritation? Share them in the comments below!
April 14, 2022
7 Unique Dog Ear Infection Treatment Ideas: Which One Is Right for Your Great Dane?
Which dog ear infection treatment is right for you? If your dog is constantly scratching his ears, it might be because he has an ear infection. Ear infections in dogs ear canals are a common problem, and can be caused by allergies, parasites, or yeast overgrowth. If your dog’s ears are infected, you will need to treat the infection with a medication prescribed by your veterinarian.

There are many different types of medications and treatments available for treating dog ear infections, so how do you know which one is right for your dog? In this blog post, we will discuss 7 different treatment options and their pros and cons!

Photo Credit to Hellen (Picture of sweet Dakota!)

Photo Credit to Tina Schneider

How can I tell if my Great Dane has an ear infection and which dog ear infection treatment is needed?

Your dog may have trouble hearing or keeping up with what’s going on around them, even though they seem fine.

This is because the infected area of their outer canal becomes inflamed and swollen. The swelling makes it difficult for fluid to escape from those cells.

Additionally, liquid can block pores inside this passageway during activities such as bathing, grooming or ear cleaning.

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Common Symptoms

The most common symptoms of an ear infection include excessive head shaking, scratching, and redness or swelling of the ear.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to take action in healing your Great Dane’s ears. If their ears are left untreated, the infection can worsen and lead to other health problems.

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My Great Dane has an ear infection, what should I do?

If you suspect your dog has an ear infection, it’s important to take them to the vet for a professional diagnosis. Ear infections are common in dogs, and can be caused by a variety of factors including allergies, bacteria, and ear mites. While some ear infections can clear up on their own, others may require medication or surgery. In most cases, ear infections can be treated at home with over-the-counter ear drops.

Following your veterinarians instructions

However, it’s important to follow your vet’s instructions and not use drops for more than a week without checking in first. For dogs with chronic or severe infections, your vet may recommend special shampoos, ear cleaners, or oral antibiotics. If you’re concerned about your dog’s ear infection, be sure to keep your dog’s ear clean.

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What are some common causes of ear infections in Great Danes?

Common causes of ear infections in Great Danes and other dogs include allergies, foreign bodies in the ear, and bacterial or fungal infections. Ear infections are a common problem in Great Danes and dogs. There are several different ear diseases that can affect these dogs, and environmental allergies are also a common trigger.

Disorders and other causes of chronic ear infections

In addition, endocrine disorders can sometimes produce ear infections as a side effect. Great Danes also produce a lot of earwax, which can contribute to the development of ear infections. Treatment for ear infections typically involves the use of antibiotics or anti-fungal medications. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to clear the infection.

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Recurring Infections

If your Great Dane has recurrent ear infection, it’s important to work with your veterinarian to find the best way to manage them and prevent recurrent ear infections. This may include medication, diet changes, or other treatments.

Allergies and Food Intolerances

Many Great Danes are allergic to grains or some proteins which can cause them to develop ear infections. It would be beneficial to conduct a diet elimination trial to test, with the help of your veterinarian, if your Great Dane’s ear infections are related to diet.

Great Dane Skin Issues

The Great Dane breed has a higher chance of developing food intolerances than some other canine breeds. Frequently, adverse reactions to food appear in the dog as chronic skin inflammations. These skin conditions cause severe itching, so if your Great Dane is excessively scratching, rubbing, itching, or biting any areas on his body that show evidence of skin allergies, a food allergy may be the culprit behind your dog’s discomfort.

Photo Credit to Tina Schneider

Photo Credit to Tina Schneider

Foreign Body

If there is a foreign body in the ear, it will need to be removed by a veterinarian. Resistant infections, or severe bacterial and fungal infections are often treated with antibiotics or anti-fungal medications. In chronic cases or autoimmune diseases you may need to visit your veterinary hospital for a professional ear cleaning.

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How Can I Treat my Great Dane or other dog’s ear infections?

Many dog owners are familiar with the frustrating and often painful problem of ear infections in their pet. Great Danes are especially prone to ear infections, due to the shape of their ears. However, there are several things that owners can do to help prevent and treat these infections. We are going to discuss 11 tips to that serve as appropriate treatment for ear disease.

One: Cotton swabs to preventing dog ear infection IS NOT SAFE

First, cotton swabs should never be used to clean a dog’s ears. The cotton balls can push wax and debris further into the ear. Dog ear infections can be caused by yeast, bacteria, or a combination of both. Severe cases of ear infections in dogs can lead to hearing loss, and the infection can be very painful. While there are a number of ways to treat ear infections, using cotton swabs is not one of them. Cotton swabs can actually push wax and debris further into the ear, causing the infection to worsen.

Two: Ear wash for dog ear infection

Use a wash designed specifically for dogs. This can be found at most pet stores.

Why does my dog need its ears cleaned?

Dogs ear canal is relatively long and narrow, which makes it difficult for air to circulate and prevents ear wax from draining properly. This can create an ideal environment for bacteria and ear mites to thrive. In addition, dogs often put their heads down in dirty or contaminated water, increasing their risk of infections.

Which wash should I use?

While there are a variety of ear washes on the market, it is important to choose one that is specifically for dogs. Human washes can be too harsh for a dog’s delicate ear canal and may cause further irritation. Dog washes, on the other hand, are formulated to gently cleanse.

Secondly, be sure to check your Dane regularly for any wax build-up or debris. If you see anything, gently remove it with one of our recommended washes. Use a gentle cleaner made specifically for Great Danes. Our favorite cleanser is called Zymox, and it has great results.

Use Xymox Ear Cleanser, NaturVet Ear Wash, or Zymox Ear Solution.

Four: If you notice symptoms, start early treatment to prevent infections

Next, if you notice symptoms, start early treatment to prevent ear infections in dogs.

Seeking Veterinarian opinions on dog ear infections

Next, if you notice an infection in your dog’s ears, there are a few things you can do to help prevent it from getting worse and entering their ear canals. First, if you think your dog may have an ear infection, take them to the vet as soon as possible to get an accurate diagnosis. Treatment is important to prevent the infection from spreading and causing more serious problems.

Diagnosis of ear infections in dogs

Once your dog has been diagnosed with an infection, there are a few things you can do at home to treat the infection and prevent it from coming back. Clean your dog’s ears regularly with a mild cleaner prescribed by your vet. Your vet may prescribe a topical medication that can help one or both ears. If your dog has black or yellowish discharge, they will likely prescribe anti inflammatory medications, as this could be a sign that the infection is in both the middle and inner ear.

Get our E Collar Guide Before It Runs Out!

Five: Allergies or foreign body in many dogs can cause an infections

It is important to rule out any underlying issues like allergies or foreign body.

Allergies can cause infections in dogs

If your dog has allergies, try to manage them with a credible allergy medication prescribed by your veterinarian. Allergies as an underlying cause can cause pain near the ear head and your dog’s skin will be itchy. The normal protective barrier of your dog’s skin will be inflamed and sometimes there can even be diseased tissue.

Foreign bodies cause chronic infections and severe or chronic cases of infection

If you think there might be a foreign body iSSUE, take them to the vet to have it checked out and removed if necessary. Foreign bodies in dogs ear canals could include:
1. Grass seeds: a grass seed can make its way into your dogs ear canal, causing inner ear infections.
2. Foxtails: Foxtails are another term for a unique grass seed that causes an inner ear infection and severe chronic disease if left in the dog’s ear canal for too long.
3. Sand: If you live nearby sand, this can impact both the outer ear canal as well as causing the middle ear to feel crusty/dirty.
4. Dirt: Dirt can enter the external ear canal and travel to the middle ear, causing ear infections in dogs.
5. Mites: Ear Mites can make their way into the canal and cause an infection. Keeping your dog’s ears clean can prevent mites from traveling into the ear canal, and ultimately prevent ear infections.
6. Excessive wax: If there is a lot of wax buildup, a veterinarian may need to suction it out. Excessive wax or the inability to produce earwax can both be painful for your dog.
Use clean and safe wipes made specifically for pets.

Six: Keep your dog’s ears dry and avoid excessive moisture

Many dog owners are unaware of the importance of keeping their pet’s ears dry and free from moisture. This is because the ears of dogs, especially those with floppy ears, are very susceptible to infection by moisture.

Beware of water

Excessive moisture is one of the most common factors to infection. When a dog’s ears become wet, it provides the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. This can lead to a painful infection. To avoid this, it is important to keep your dog’s skin dry. This means avoiding swimming or bathing without protection and keeping the hair around the face short. By taking these precautions, you can help prevent infections in dogs and keep your dog’s infection at bay.

Seven: Use home remedies for pain

In addition, there are a few things you can do at home to help your Great Dane feel better. One of the most important is to keep the ear clean and dry. Some of these home remedies include:
1. Use a warm compress to help ease the pain.
2. Trim any excess hair in order to keep the area as clean as possible.
3. Use coconut oil, which serves as a natural anti-inflammatory. Do not put coconut oil INTO the ear canal without veterinarian approval.
4. If you notice an infected ear, act as quickly as possible and seek treatment.
5. Use the appropriate medication to treat the diagnosis.
In Conclusion

In conclusion if you notice any irritating gunk or itchy skin, be sure to monitor. If it doesn’t improve or your dog is excessively scratching at their ears, make an appointment with the vet.

Your vet will likely prescribe antibiotics and/or ear drops to help clear up the infection. In extreme cases, your dog may need surgery to remove the infected tissue.

Prevention is always the best medicine, so be sure to keep your dog clean and dry to avoid any future infections. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us! We’re always here to help.

Happy tails!

READ MORE:

The Two-Sided Debate: Great Dane Ear Cropping
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9 Important Factors to Consider About When to Spay a Great Dane
Wondering when to spay a Great Dane? Female Great Dane owners are often unsure to have their dog spayed and do not know when the right time is. It doesn’t help that there are so many opinions online, not to mention, many veterinarians approach this differently too!

There are a few things to consider before making the decision to spay your Great Dane.

When to Spay a Great Dane

Great Danes are giant breeds which can grow, on average to about 120-150 pounds. They are one of the tallest breeds of dogs and have a life expectancy of around 8-12 years.

There are many schools of thought about when to spay a Great Dane, but it is believed that in general, large and giant breed dogs may benefit from delaying the procedure until their joints are more mature.

Because most pets are spayed before their first heat cycle, choosing to delay comes with many considerations (accidental puppies being just one of them). Outside of accidental puppies, intact female Great Danes are more prone to mammary cancer and pyometra.

Some studies show that delayed spay (waiting until after age 1-2 in Great Danes):
- Can reduce the risk of osteosarcoma
- May reduce the risk of ACL/CCL tears
- Will likely result in a better structural outcome of the adult dog, which means stronger bones, better joints, and less chance of early onset arthritis
While these benefits of keeping a female Great Dane intact are still being studied, it’s important to note that there are many negatives, too. It’s important to speak with your veterinarian and balance the pros and cons of spaying your Great Dane.

What Does Spaying Your Great Dane Mean?

Making a decision to alter your female dog means that you complete the surgical removal process of her ovaries and uterus.

The benefits of spaying your Great Dane include:
- Reduced risk or even risk elimination of dangerous health conditions such as pyometra, mammary cancer, ovary cancer, and otherwise
- No heat cycles to deal with
- No accidental puppies
- No false pregnancies or milk production
- Often, calmer and more stable behavior
Making the decision on when to spay a Great Dane should not be taken lightly. You should consider researching the pros and cons on when to spay a Great Dane. In other pets and breeds of dogs, this is generally done when your dog is between the ages of four to six months, but can be done at any age.

Making the Decision on When to Spay a Great Dane

There are a few things to keep in mind before you make the decision on when to spay a Great Dane, or whether to spay at an early age or young age.

Many people will tell you that they ‘spayed their dog at 6 months’ and their dog was ‘fine’.

Keep in mind that ‘fine’ is a relative, unregulated term and everybody has a different definition for this term. Anecdotal stories should be taken with a grain of salt.

We recommend consulting with your veterinarian, who should have some continuing education on the topic. If you choose to keep your Dane intact until she’s older, it’s important to understand the risk factors that come with that decision.

Female Great Danes

A female Great Dane develops much differently than male Great Danes. In general, they tend to be smaller and not as muscular or masculine in their appearance.

Female dogs have sexual reproductive organs which are full of hormones. These hormones contribute to their growth and development and are present before spaying or neutering a dog. However, after spay or neuter, the hormones are removed.

This can impact their ability to grow in the way in which they were designed.

Risks or Considerations for Spaying Great Dane Dogs

There are other health considerations for female Great Danes and when to spay a Great Dane in general (and some of the same risks are relevant with neutered males). Here are some of the risks associated with early spay (prior to one year of age):

1. Hormone-Responsive Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is a somewhat common health concern for female dogs that were spayed at a young age.

This can mean that they leak urine when they rest or sleep.

There are medications to treat this, and it is generally harmless (just messy).

2. Weight Gain

Another consideration is your dog gaining weight. It is not uncommon for your dog to put on a few pounds after being spayed. The main reason for this weight uptick is due to a decrease their metabolism.

To avoid this weight increase, it is important to keep up with a healthy diet and moderate exercise for your dog even after they have been spayed.

After spay or neuter, sometimes the energy level of your dog can slow, which makes it more difficult to keep the weight off. It is very important that you monitor food intake and activity levels, as excess weight can shorten lifespan by as much as 2 years.

There is only one person who knows your Great Dane and it’s best- and it’s you- so be sure to advocate for them whenever possible!

3. Cancer

Knowing when to spay a Great Dane is a very difficult decision. There are also some risks to keeping your dog in tact, and one of those can be certain types of cancer. Giants dogs are unfortunately more prone to certain types of cancer. One of those being mammary cancer, which is common in older female dogs that have not been spayed.

This type of cancer is almost nonexistent in dogs that have been spayed at an early age. Therefore, spaying your female dog at age 2 minimizes the risk of seeing this form of cancer significantly.

On the flip side, some studies show that osteosarcoma cancer is more common in pets that were spayed under the age of one.

Risks of Cancer in Getting or Not Getting Your Male Great Dane Neutered

Testicular cancer can be found in your Male Great Dane if they are not neutered. This is another form of cancer that can be easily prevented by getting your dog fixed early on. Testicular cancer is not as common as mammary cancer, but it is still something to keep in mind when making the decision of whether you want to keep your male Great Dane in tact or opt for the decision to neuter your male dog.

4. Unwanted Pregnancy with your Female Great Dane and Other Dogs

Of course, if you decide to not spay or neuter your dog there is always a risk for unwanted puppies.

Any time there are two dogs that are not the same gender together, as well as not fixed, you run the risk of having an unplanned pregnancy. Un-spayed and un-neutered dogs tend to gravitate towards one another and intact males will do almost anything to get to a female in heat.

Unplanned puppies are a massive burden on the shelter/rescue system, not to mention, a LOT of work. Pregnancy is a medical condition that comes with complications which can be devastating to the female dog. Breeding and unplanned pregnancies should never be taken lightly.

5. Behaviors of Dogs

Many people will state that there are different behaviors before and after the spay or neuter process. This is true, however, this should not be a primary reason to spay or neuter your dog. We have seen countless dog families rely on the spay or neuter to correct unwanted behavior or aggressive behavior. Unfortunately, spaying or neutering does not always serve as a ‘fix’ for any dog breed. You could see humping behavior prior to a spay/neuter and still continue to see that same bahavior after the procedure.

The best course of action is identifying the primary cause of the behavior and working with a professional to correct it. Spay or neuter may be part of a comprehensive behavioral treatment plan, but should never be anticipated as the “cure”.

6. Growth Plates

Other animals or dog breeds do not have the same types of concerns about their growth plates as Great Danes do. Great Danes are a dog who grows until they are over 24 months.

Their bones, ligaments, and tendons are all still growing and developing well into their adult years. If you were to spay or neuter your dog too early, it could lead to health issues with their growth plates closing too quickly. This also impacts their overall body, spine, or leg structure.

Another common concern with early spay or neuter of dogs is the impact it has on their feet or leg structure. This is, again, due to the hormones that are present before spaying or neutering which help with the growth and development of their bones, ligaments, and tendons.

7. Surgical Risk

Spaying or neutering Great Danes comes with the standard anesthetic or surgical risk that all surgeries come with.

Your Great Dane is so large that it sometimes has a harder time adjusting to anesthesia than other dogs. Always be sure to get routine blood testing prior to putting your female or male Great Dane under anesthesia. Speak to your vet about what blood panels they find necessary for your Great Dane to have taken. Without completing blood testing prior to your Great Dane being sedated, you run the risk of your Great Dane having blood clotting issues such as Hemophilia A, amongst others.

8. Pyometra

One common health conditions to consider for spaying or not spaying your dog is Pyometra. Pyometra is a life-threatening infection of the uterus that can occur in any un-spayed female dog.

For this reason, it is important to know the signs of this infection in female Great Danes, watch your individual dog closely, and monitor your Great Dane’s health during the duration of her remaining un spayed.

When pyometra happens, the uterus fills up with pus. In some cases, this can only be resolved with a delicate, expensive, and life-threatening surgery.

9. What is considered an early age to spay in Great Danes?

Most male and female dogs are considered to be full grown at around 12 months of age.

At this age they have completed most of their growth and development. However, most large dog breeds can take up to two years to reach their full adult size.

It is important to keep in mind that Great Danes mature slower than other dog breeds. Since other dogs grow quicker and are full grown at a younger age, Great Dane dog’s require longer time to allow their growth plates to fully develop. Spaying before 24 months is often considered ‘too young’ for Great Danes.

As the owner of a Great Dane, you are wondering about the best time to spay her. First, it’s important to understand the heat cycle and the clinical signs of estrus.

Photo Credit to Hellen at www.instagram.com/Mumukodogsquad (Picture of sweet Dakota!)

10. Female Great Dane and the Heat Cycle

What happens when the Great Dane dog goes into heat?

Generally, Great Danes come into heat twice a year, with each cycle lasting about three weeks. During this time, their bodies undergo a number of changes, including an increase in vaginal discharge and a swelling of the vulva.

Additionally, they may be more restless and vocal than usual. It is common for there to be changes in behavior and appetite during this time. They are susceptible to pregnancy for the entirety of this heat cycle, but especially on the day when they ovulate.

Should female Great Danes be spayed during their heat cycle?

We suggest waiting until your Great Dane is NOT in estrus (heat) to perform any surgical procedure.

During this time (heat cycle) female large breed dogs have an abundance of hormones. Your veterinarian will have insight into the best time to spay your female, based on the circumstances, their age, and their health.

Why is my Female Great Dane acting pregnant during her heat cycle?

Your female Great Dane has likely entered into a false pregnancy.

Do not spay your Great Dane while they are experiencing a false pregnancy or other health issues. Her nipples could fill up with milk, and Great Danes sometimes even carry around stuffed animals. Males tend to get antsy and sometimes there is excessive barking from the male counterparts.

During this 3-4 month time, you should not consider spaying your Great Dane. The only consideration for this would be that you have been given a pet health report from your veterinarian that your Great Dane is experiencing uterine infections, which is life threatening.

Why should I not spay my Great Dane during her heat cycle?

Your female Great Dane is extremely susceptible to bleeding out and other health problems during surgery if you choose to spay during her heat cycle. There is an excessive blood supply as well as raging hormones in your Great Dane. You should plan routine blood testing and ensure that you are planning your spay according to your Great Danes hormones.

In conclusion

In conclusion, you need to make the best decision for your Great Dane dog . You need to factor in her health, your lifestyle, and whether or not you plan to breed her. Talk with your veterinarian about the best time to spay your Great Dane. Use this article as a guide to ask the right questions and make an informed decision.

There are risks of spaying your Great Dane dog and there are risks of letting her stay in-tact. We hope that by outlining those risks and benefits, it can help you to make the best decision possible.

READ MORE:

Miniature Great Danes: The ‘Pocket’ Versions of Great Danes
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