Hello Danes

Category: Other Health Issues

  • WHAT TEMPERATURE IS IDEAL FOR GREAT DANE? GREAT DANE TEMPERATURE AND WEATHER REQUIREMENTS

    WHAT TEMPERATURE IS IDEAL FOR GREAT DANE? GREAT DANE TEMPERATURE AND WEATHER REQUIREMENTS

    Great Dane temperature and weather requirements are not that much different than those of other breeds.

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

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

    GREAT DANE TEMPERATURE
    GREAT DANE TEMPERATURE

    GREAT DANE TEMPERATURE AND WEATHER REQUIREMENTS

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

    BUT… DON’T WORRY!

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

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

    HOW DO LARGE DOGS HANDLE COLD WEATHER?

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

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

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

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    DOG COATS FOR COLD WEATHER

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

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

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

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

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    KEEPING PAW PADS SAFE FROM ICE AND NEGATIVE TEMPERATURES

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

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

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

    There are a few things you can do to help protect your dog’s feet from the cold:

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

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

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

    KEEPING A GREAT DANE WARM IN THE RAIN

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

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

    RAIN JACKETS FOR LARGER BREEDS

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

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

    It is affordable as well!

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

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

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    MY GREAT DANE HATES TO BE COLD

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

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

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

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

    HEATED PAD FOR A DOG WHO HATES TO BE COLD

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

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

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    HOW DO GREAT DANES HANDLE HOT WEATHER?

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

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

    MY GREAT DANE DOES NOT TOLERATE HOT WEATHER

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

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

    COOLING MAT FOR A DOG WHO GETS VERY HOT

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

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

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

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    DOG SWIMMING POOL THAT FITS GREAT DANES

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

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

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    IS IT OKAY TO LEAVE MY DOG IN THE CAR?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    RECTAL THERMOMETER

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

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

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

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    USING DIGITAL THERMOMETERS

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

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

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    EAR THERMOMETER FOR A GREAT DANE

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

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

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

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    GLASS THERMOMETER FOR A DOG

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

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

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    NORMAL TEMPERATURE FOR A GREAT DANE

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

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

    FINAL THOUGHTS

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

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

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

    Read more:

    Off-Color & Designer Great Danes

  • Acupuncture for Dogs: Gigi’s Wobblers Journey to a Pain Free Life

    Acupuncture for Dogs: Gigi’s Wobblers Journey to a Pain Free Life

    If you’re considering acupuncture for dogs, you’re not alone.

    I personally began using Acupuncture out of a feeling of desperation. My Great Dane, Gigi, was having severe chronic pain from her Wobblers diagnosis.

    When modern medicine was not an option for Gigi and her pain management as she was not a candidate for traditional spinal surgery- we were left with the option of lifelong pain medications- and worst- lifelong pain.

    I decided to try and start searching for a treatment protocol that could relieve pain and help my dog’s condition.

    Acupuncture for Dogs
    Gigi at her first Acupuncture appointment

    As pet owners, we will do anything we can for our pet’s health. I was motivated to help Gigi with her degenerative joint disease.

    MY JOURNEY TO FINDING ACUPUNCTURE FOR DOGS

    In my quest in understanding my dog’s health, I found Canine Acupuncture.

    I was lucky to stumble upon an amazing canine acupuncturist who’s vet clinic was practically in my backyard.

    I took Gigi in for her first acupuncture session.

    TRADITIONAL CHINESE VETERINARY MEDICINE vs. WESTERN MEDICINE

    What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?

    TCM is a system of medicine that has been used for over 4000 years to treat human and animal patients.

    The goal of TCM is to achieve balance in the body and prevent disease.

    TCM encompasses several modalities including acupuncture, Chinese herbs, food therapy, and tui-na (massage).

    Alternatively, Western Medicine is the system of medicine most commonly used in the United States.

    The goal of Western Medicine is to treat disease with medications or surgery.

    Common modalities used in Western Medicine include, but are not limited to, pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and radiotherapy.

    CERTIFIED VETERINARY ACUPUNCTURIST

    So how does acupuncture fit into all of this?

    A Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist is somewhat of a mix between both!

    They have completed an accredited veterinary program and then gone on to complete an additional 300-hour acupuncture certification to be able to perform Veterinary Acupuncture.

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    Photo credit to Dear Danes at Instagram.com/deardanes
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    My Great Dane, Gigi, before her diagnosis

    This combination of Eastern and Western medicine is what makes Certified Veterinary Acupuncturists so unique.

    They are able to provide comprehensive care to their patients by utilizing both systems of medicine.

    WHAT PET OWNERS SHOULD EXPECT WITH DOG ACUPUNCTURE

    At Gigi’s first appointment, I was anxious to see whether or not this acupuncture treatment would be effective to alleviate pain.

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    When I first arrived, I explained my dog’s medical records and her amazing Veterinary Acupuncturist began to explain the treatment of Acupuncture therapy.

    Pet parents should expect acupuncture sessions to be virtually painless for their dog’s body, and should see a healing response within just a few hours of time.

    A typical acupuncture session lasts for about 30 minutes with a trained Acupuncturist.

    Let’s talk about some of the things I learned at my first animal acupuncture appointment with Gigi.

    ACUPUNCTURE NEEDLES

    The needles used on dogs are much smaller in diameter than the needles used on humans.

    They are also solid, as opposed to the hollow-cored needles used on humans.

    The smaller size and solidity of the needles make them much less painful when inserted into your dog.

    They are a little bit intimidating to pet parents at first, but rest assured that acupuncture work is not painful.

    ACUPUNCTURE POINTS

    There are over 365 acupuncture points on a dog’s body.

    The most commonly used points are located on the legs, neck, and back.

    These points correspond to areas where your dog is most likely to have pain or discomfort.

    Acupuncture for dogs will rely on these pressure points to help ease pain in the body.

    NEEDLE INSERTION

    Acupuncture needles are inserted into the skin and muscle tissue.

    The depth of needle insertion will vary depending on the size of your dog and the location of the acupuncture point.

    Most needles are only inserted a few millimeters below the skin surface.

    Once the needles are in place, they are left there for 20-30 minutes.

    The needles enhance blood circulation by opening up the blood vessels and by releasing endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers.

    After the needles are removed, your dog will be relaxed and may even fall asleep.

    TREATMENT TIME

    Acupuncture sessions usually last between 30-60 minutes.

    First, the Veterinarian will conduct a general medical assessment.

    Then, they will begin to perform acupuncture.

    During this time, your dog will be lying on a comfortable table or bed.

    The acupuncturist will insert the needles into your dog’s skin at various points on their body.

    After the needles are inserted, your dog will be left to relax for a few minutes.

    Most dogs enjoy this part of the treatment and will often fall asleep. Pet parents can sit with their pup the entire time their dog is receiving acupuncture treatments.

    AFTER THE TREATMENT

    After the treatment is finished, the needles will be removed and your dog will be able to go home.

    Most dogs feel relaxed and calm after an acupuncture session.

    It is important to avoid letting your dog run or play for at least 30 minutes after the treatment. You can use a crate to keep them calm, if needed.

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    Shop for the best crate for Great Danes on Amazon

    This will give the acupuncture time to work and will help prevent your dog from getting injured.

    Most people who take their pup for dog acupuncture report that their dog is extremely happy and pain-free for several days or even weeks post-treatment.

    THE BENEFITS OF ACUPUNCTURE FOR DOGS

    Acupuncture has been shown to be an effective treatment for a variety of health problems.

    There has been pain relieving effects for medical conditions such as hip dysplasia, joint disease, joint inflammation, Addison’s disease, neurological disorders (like Gigi!), gastrointestinal problems, musculoskeletal diseases, metabolic diseases, diabetes mellitus, and even treating pain from something as severe as a spinal cord injury.

    Acupuncture has also been known to be helpful in treating behavioral problems such as separation anxiety and fear of fireworks.

    Overall, acupuncture is a safe and effective way to treat a variety of health conditions in dogs.

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    Gigi with her sisters on a Big Barker Bed

    When I originally took Gigi to her first dog acupuncture treatment, I really did not expect the results that I was about to receive for her.

    HOW DOES CANINE ACUPUNCTURE ACTUALLY WORK

    Canine acupuncture works when a Veterinary Acupuncturist inserts needles into specific areas on a dog’s body.

    The goal is to release endorphins, increase blood circulation, and reduce inflammation.

    Acupuncture can be used to treat a wide variety of health conditions in dogs.

    It is important to note that acupuncture should only be performed by either licensed Veterinary Acupuncturists or Chiropractors.

    ANIMAL ACUPUNCTURE AND THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

    The nervous system of a dog is similar to that of human patients.

    There are acupuncture points located all over the body that correspond to different areas of the dog’s body.

    When the needles are inserted into these specific points, it helps to release endorphins and reduce pain, providing blood flow and releasing tissue inflammation.

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

    First and foremost: Acupuncture helps to increase blood circulation and reduce inflammation which can be beneficial to your dog’s condition, pretty much no matter WHAT their condition is.

    WHEN VETERINARY MEDICINE IS NOT HELPING A DOGS SUFFERING

    Since prescription medication and some traditional medicine does not have anti inflammatory substances but rather can cause inflammation, alternative therapies like acupuncture work can be extremely beneficial to improve blood circulation.

    Veterinary medicine is an incredible resource that has helped our dogs in so many ways. Most pet parents will admit to being extraordinarily grateful for their Veterinarian.

    However, there are times when traditional medicine is not enough to help a dog suffering from pain or an injury.

    This is where acupuncture for dogs comes in. Acupuncture is a safe and effective alternative treatment that can be used to treat a variety of health conditions in dogs.

    GIGI’S STORY OF VETERINARY ACUPUNCTURE

    After Gigi’s first Acupuncture treatment, I was really surprised at how much better she felt.

    The results were almost immediate and she continued to improve with each subsequent treatment.

    Now, Gigi is a happy and healthy dog who loves to go on walks and play with her toys.

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    I am so grateful that we found acupuncture for dogs and would recommend it to any pet parent who is looking for an alternative treatment for their dog.

    If you are considering acupuncture for your dog, I would encourage you to speak with your veterinarian about it. They will be able to provide you with more information and help you decide if it is the right treatment option for your dog.

    Have you ever tried acupuncture for your pup?

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    READ MORE:

    Is My Great Dane Puppy Knuckling?

  • 7 Deadly Risks: Fat Great Danes Face Serious Health Risks

    7 Deadly Risks: Fat Great Danes Face Serious Health Risks

    Overweight and fat Great Danes face serious health risks to their longevity and life.

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

    Did you know that Great Danes are one of the breeds of dog that are most commonly overweight? A dog’s weight creates MANY issues.

    An overweight Great Dane faces so many medical problems, in fact, that it can lower their entire lifespan.

    Fat Great Danes Face Serious Health Risks: Even Early Death

    Believe it or not, even science says so. A study conducted by Banfield Pet Hospital found that the lifespan of overweight dogs was 2.5 years shorter on average than their peers who maintained a completely normal weight / muscle mass.

    “The correlation between being overweight and reduced lifespan was seen in all 12 breeds, although the magnitude of the reduction differed, ranging from five months for male German Shepherd Dogs to 2 1/2 years for male Yorkshire Terriers.”

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    This is a serious health risk for these dogs, and can lead to a number of health problems. In this blog post, we will discuss the health risks associated with obesity in Great Danes, and what you can do to help keep your dog healthy and fit.

    Great Dane Puppies, Food Intake, and Keeping the Perfect Weight

    Congratulations on your new Great Dane puppy!

    Starting now, the first thing you should know as a pet owner is that within a blink of an eye, Great Dane puppies turn into a full grown adult Great Dane. Because they grow SO FAST, it is absolutely crucial that you monitor your puppy Great Dane’s growth.

    Check out our Great Dane growth chart here.

    Does excess weight matter with my puppy?

    Too much weight gain absolutely matters with your adorable, squishy Great Dane puppy. While your puppy is active and energetic, it is the very time to set them up for proper growth to minimize future health issues.

    Adding too much quick weight gain and unnecessary gained weight adds extreme pressure onto your puppies joints. Large dogs grow rapidly when they are less than 2 years old. If a puppy gains too much weight, it can put strain on their joints and lead to health problems later in life. Below you will see a Great Dane growth chart, but please remember NOT ALL puppies will fit into this chart:

    IDEAL: Animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures substantiate that [THIS FORMULA] provides complete and balanced nutrition for all life stages, including growth of large sized dogs (70 lb. or more as an adult).

    MODERATELY ACCEPTABLE: [THIS FORMULA] is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for growth of puppies and maintenance of adult dogs, including growth of large sized dogs (70 lb or more as an adult).

    NOT ACCEPTABLE: [THIS FORMULA] is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance of adult dogs.

    QUESTIONABLE: [THIS FORMULA] is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages.

    Feeding the right quantity of food and keep track of your Great Danes ribs

    The best way to ensure a healthy weight is to feed your puppy a high-quality dog food that is designed for their stage of life. Puppies need more calories than adult dogs, so they should be fed a food that is high in protein and fat.

    You can also talk to your vet about how much your puppy should eat each day and what the healthy weight ranges are for Great Danes.

    Gentle Giants Dog Food Review

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

    Monitor every growth spurt with large breed dogs

    Watch your puppies food intake closely and be sure to keep them on an appropriate amount of food. If you choose to ‘free feed’, it is best to measure a day’s worth of food out in the morning, so that you always know how much they are eating.

    Be sure to research which puppy food you would like to give, and do your research EARLY- as it is best for your dog’s health NOT to switch foods often, if at all. If you are looking for our puppy food resources, you can find them here:

    Puppy vs. Adult Food
    Puppy Socialization
    Best Toys for Puppies

    Knuckling in a growing Great Dane puppy

    When your giant breed puppy experiences a large period of growth, watch their joints closely. Knuckling is a huge issue in Great Danes and can be related to feeding the wrong puppy food, giving too many calories or the wrong calories, switching pet food too many times, slippery floors, weak feet, leg muscles or hip bones, etc. If you wonder if your Great Dane is knuckling, be sure to check out some resources here:

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    IS YOUR GREAT DANE PUPPY KNUCKLING?

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

    KNUCKLING RESOURCES

    The ‘Rib Check’ in a Great Dane

    A Great Dane’s ribs shouldn’t be hidden by too much flesh. You should be able to see the ribs of your Great Dane easily as well as feel them with your fingers and palm of your hand. If you can’t, your dog may be overweight and could benefit from weight loss.

    Conduct the Rib Test

    To check if your great dane is at a healthy weight, place your hands on their rib cage, just behind the last rib bone. You should be able to feel their ribs without too much pressure. If you can’t, your dog may be overweight.

    The last thing you want is for your dog to become too fat! If I can’t see any ribs then try lowering food intake by 5% until body leans out and you are able to feel the ribs of your Great Dane, which implies a more healthy weight.

    Why Did My Great Dane Gain Weight Suddenly?

    Dog’s go through many different phases of life and there could be many reasons why your Great Dane suddenly put on weight.

    Can CBD Help Dogs?

    Spay / Neuter

    Spaying and Neutering dogs will cause them to gain quickly. This is because when you Spay or Neuter a dog, their metabolism slows down and they no longer need as many calories as they did before the surgery. You should consider waiting to spay / neuter your Great Dane until they are matured at around age 24 months to allow them to maintain a healthy weight and experience each hormonal life stage necessary for a large dog.

    Early Spay or Neuter

    Can early spay or neuter hurt your dog? Check out our blog here.

    Lactation

    Nursing mothers will also gain weight quickly as their bodies prepare for motherhood. This is normal and healthy, but once the puppies are weaned, the mother’s weight should level out.

    Old Age

    As dogs age, their metabolism slows down and they become less active. This can cause them to gain weight even if they are eating the same amount of food as they did when they were younger. If your senior dog has unexpected weight gain, consider joint-friendly activities like swimming.

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    How long do Great Danes live? Read more here.

    Inactivity

    If your dog is not getting enough exercise, they may start to gain weight. Dogs need at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, and sometimes more if they are a high energy Great Dane. There are low impact exercises and activities that are great for a big dog like a Great Dane. Going about their day-to-day without activity even just for a week or two can cause weight gain in a Great Dane.

    Check out our blog about whether or not you should go running with your Great Dane:

    Running with your Great Dane

    Health Conditions

    There are some health conditions that can cause dogs to gain weight suddenly. These include Cushing’s disease, hypothyroidism, and diabetes. If you think your dog may be sick, please take them to the vet for a checkup. Digestive issues can also cause dogs to gain weight, lose weight or have unexplained fluctuation. Worm infestation can cause your dog to have an inability to absorb nutrients.

    IS LIFE’S ABUNDANCE FOOD GOOD FOR GREAT DANES?

    Obesity in Great Danes

    Obesity is a serious health concern for dogs of all breeds, but it is especially dangerous for giant breeds like the Great Dane. Obese dogs are at risk for joint problems, respiratory difficulties, diabetes, and other health issues.

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    How to Help Your Adult Great Dane With Weight Loss

    If you have determined that your dog needs to lose weight, do not worry, as there are manageable methods that you can use to help your Great Dane slim down.

    Tip 1: Examine What Dog Food Your Great Dane is Eating

    One of the best ways to help your Great Dane lose weight is to examine the nutrition label of their dog food.

    You should be looking at the calorie content and the amount of fat in the food. Great Danes need special food to keep them healthy. The right kind of cuisine will ensure that your Great Dane’s weight remains stable, his joints don’t GET worse and he grows into an adult who has strong structures with no fractures or problems growing bones! Ingredients actually DO matter when caring for our furry friends properly…

    Click here for what we believe the best food is to feed your dog.

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    Tip 2: Choose What Treats Your Dog Eats Wisely

    One of the easiest ways to help your dog lose weight is to cut back on the number of treats you give them. This doesn’t mean you have to stop giving them treats altogether, but you should limit their treat intake to only a certain amount, and also the RIGHT kind.

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    The Olly Backcountry treat pouch for Great Danes
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    The Olly smaller treat pouch

    Not all dog treats are created the same. Some dog treats are packed with way more protein and fat than others, and should actually be considered apart of their diet. Otherwise with their meals they are already getting enough food, but then you add more.

    Choosing a healthy diet also means choosing what treats you provide. For your convenience, we put together some of our favorite treats here:

    Great Dane Puppy Treats
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    Code HELLODANES10 for 10% off all Dr. Harveys products

    Tip 3: Speak to a Licensed Veterinarian

    Most dogs who are fed a healthy diet, the right amount of calories and getting adequate exercise, will have slightly visible ribs and muscle development.

    If you notice that your Great Dane seems overweight compared to other dogs, it is time to speak to your veterinarian and get medical advice to make sure there is not an underlying condition.

    Your veterinarian can help you develop a weight-loss plan tailored to your dog’s individual needs that will help them slim down in a healthy way. This may include changes to their diet and/or exercise routine. By seeking pet medical advice you are making sure to get the best plan.

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    Viper 15ft Training Lead
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    Leather Dog Leash
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    Leather Slip Leash

    Tip 4: “My Dog is Too Skinny”

    Something we hear very often when speaking to Great Dane owners is that they have a concern for their skinny Great Dane.

    Don’t get me wrong, some families DO have an underweight Great Dane.

    But, typically, those with a Skinny Great Dane, are those with pre existing conditions, medical ailments, or even parasites etc.

    Are Great Danes Supposed to be Skinny?

    The reason that this is an important topic is because pet obesity has become very… ‘normal’. When we go to the dog park, we generally see many overweight pups. Everywhere we go- pet parents are struggling to keep their dog at a healthy weight.

    The truth is- if you have a skinny Great Dane- you PROBABLY have a ‘Healthy Weight’ Great Dane. Here are some example photos:

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    An Underweight Great Dane
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    A Healthy Weight Great Dane
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    An Overweight Great Dane

    We have seen A LOT of Great Danes, and we have seen VERY FEW, that we could say ‘Your Great Dane is too skinny’.

    Fat Great Danes
    Fat Great Danes
    Fat Great Danes

    But, REALLY… My Great Dane is TOO THIN!

    If you truly believe that your Great Dane is too thin, we have a few suggestions. However, this site does not constitute ‘bulking up’ your Great Dane, just because you want them to be bigger. You should examine both your female and male Great Dane thoroughly, seek veterinary medicine and advice, and understand the ramifications on their joints and health before intentionally causing them to gain weight. It is much easier to gain weight than it is to lose weight. Now, for the suggestions:

    Good Quality Canned Food and Raw Toppers

    Providing a raw topper or good quality canned food will increase your dog’s calories, without having to feed them more kibble. This is a great way to help your dog add weight, without over doing it. For your convenience, here are some raw healthy toppers:

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    Raw Grass-Fed Beef
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    Surf & Turf
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    Turkey

    Add Healthy Fats and Oils

    You can also add healthy fats and oils to your dog’s diet. This is a great way to increase the calories they are taking in, without adding too much volume. Below we will link our favorite fish oils.

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

    Feed Smaller Meals, and Feed More Often

    You can also try feeding your dog more meals, more often throughout the day, with less food. This will help them feel fuller, without overeating.

    Satin Balls

    You can make your own satin balls, or purchase them. This is a high-calorie food that can help your dog gain weight.

    Final Thoughts: Keep a Healthy Weight and Encourage Weight Gain with Caution

    Keeping your Great Dane thin is one of the greatest gifts we can give them. It is our responsibility to make sure they stay at a healthy weight, so that they can enjoy their lives to the fullest.

    Remember, it is easier to make a dog obese, than it is to make them lose weight. So please use caution when following any of the above suggestions and seek your veterinarian any time you have an issue that might constitute pet medical advice.

    We hope you enjoyed this article. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us. We would be happy to help!

    READ MORE:

    The 2 Sided Debate: Great Dane Ear Cropping

  • Nasty but Fascinating Truth: Dirt is Good for Dogs in More Ways than 1

    We found out a nasty but cool fact: Dirt is good for dogs! Dogs love to get dirty, but is it bad for them? Contrary to popular belief, letting your dog play in dirt may actually be good for their immune system! Learn more about the benefits of a dirty dog and why you shouldn’t worry about your Dane getting messy. Buckle up- we are about to discuss why dirt is good for dogs!

    Dirt is good for dogs
    @thebullytroika on Instagram

    Dogs Need to Get Dirty for a Healthy Immune System!

    Think it’s bad for dogs to eat dirt? WRONG. In fact, it’s essential for their immune system! Find out how playing and getting dirty can help your pup stay healthy.

    Screen Shot 2022 03 14 at 8.41.55 PM
    @mister_paddington on Instagram

    Healthy Dogs – They Love to Eat Dirt!

    Dogs love to eat dirt and mud, and for good reason! These activities are incredibly enriching for their health and provide opportunities for exercise that most dogs enjoy. Puppies love to play with, dig in and eat mud and dirt as well! Mud and dirt are full of unique smells and textures which keep your dog’s senses engaged. So go ahead and let them play in the dirt- it’s good for them!

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BxnQ5U9FveM/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Dogs Love Digging, But It’s Not Bad For Them!

    Dogs love to dig. It’s in their nature. However, that doesn’t mean you have to just let them go wild and start tearing up your garden. There are a few things you can do to help prevent this behavior while still keeping your dog happy and healthy. Work on finding healthy way for your Great Danes to play in the mud. You may be hesitant at first, but keep in mind that dirt is good for dogs! Check out these tips for how to keep your dog entertained and safe when they’re outside!

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BSZm7KXAd9x/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Most of the Time, Dirt is Good for Dogs, but Can Dirt Be Bad?

    Dogs should never eat or inhale too much mud as it can contain parasites and other things that may be dangerous to their health. There can also be parasites or bacteria in certain dirt or mud, so it’s crucial for pet parents to not let their dogs play in the wrong mud or dirt. Stagnant water, for example, is known to harbor bacteria. Allowing your dog to play in mud from stagnant water may end up in a tummy ache or even a parasite.

    “Danes love to get dirty, but is it bad for them? Contrary to popular belief, letting your dog eat dirt may actually be good for their immune system! Give your Dane the opportunity to play in the mud and let them enjoy this natural source of enrichment today!“

    Why Giving Your Dog Access to Dirt, Mud, and the Outdoors is So Important

    However, access to free-play in dirt, mud and the outdoors has many benefits for dogs. Some of the reasons why dirt is good for dogs include reducing stress and anxiety, combating depression, reducing boredom, boosting the immune system, helping with digestion and cardiovascular health, reducing allergies, softening toenails, paw pads, skin and fur, improving balance and coordination and strengthening muscles. When you realize that dirt is good for dogs, you will actually improve not only your dog’s immune system, but provide them with more engagement in regards to sensory activities! Digging and playing in mud can help stimulate mental enrichment for dogs. There are so many ways that dirt is good for dogs! Supervision is necessary!

    Dirt is Good for Dogs!

    In conclusion, while it’s important to keep an eye on your pup and make sure they’re not eating too much dirt, playing in mud and getting outdoors has many benefits for their health. From reducing stress and anxiety to boosting the immune system, here are just a few reasons why dirt is good for dogs!

  • The Shocking Truth: How Many Grapes Can a Dog Eat? Is Just 1 Grape Toxic?

    The Shocking Truth: How Many Grapes Can a Dog Eat? Is Just 1 Grape Toxic?

    How many grapes can a dog eat before it becomes a toxic dose? Many people have heard that eating grapes is poisonous to dogs, but what does that mean for your new puppy? Have dogs eaten grapes without grape poisoning or kidney failure? In this blog post, we will explore if a single grape can make a dog sick and what pet owners need to know about grape toxicity.

    HOW MANY GRAPES CAN A DOG EAT

    How Many Grapes Can a Dog Eat Before It Is Toxic?

    Dogs are known for being voracious eaters, and many people wonder about what to do if their dog was eating grapes.

    What is true is that when a dog consumes grapes they are at risk of acute kidney failure, regardless of the amount of grapes that they eat. Therefore, if your dog ate grapes you should know that they are toxic to dogs. But, what your plan of treatment might be depends on a few factors.

    What is the severe toxicity of grape poisoning in dogs?

    This fruit is poisonous to dogs because of their toxicity which comes from cyanogenic glycoside.

    The toxicity is caused by a compound called cyanogenic glycoside, which is found in the skin and seeds. This compound turns into cyanide when it is metabolized, and cyanide is poisonous to dogs. The severity of the toxicity depends on the size of the dog, the amount eaten, and the type of grape.

    For example, raisins are more toxic because they are smaller and have a higher concentration of cyanogenic glycosides. So, not only are grapes poisonous, but keep in mind that there is raisin toxicity as well.

    What happens when dogs ingest something toxic?

    When a dog ingests this compound, it can cause problems with their metabolism and result in toxicity. There are studies which show that grapes result in poison for dogs, including Great Danes. It has also been proven that any amount can result in toxicity poisoning, even just one grape. Ingestion is something that usually requires immediate treatment.

    Are all grapes toxic to dogs?

    All grapes are toxic to dogs, no matter if they are fresh grapes from a fruit bowl, dried grapes, or even grape juice. Are raisins poisonous as well? The answer is yes. Raisins are poisonous as well. How many raisins a dog can consume is unknown and dependent on many factors.

    Is this toxicity common?

    Although cases of grape and raisin poisoning are not common, they can be very serious if not treated immediately. Dogs who ingest grapes or raisins may vomit, have diarrhea, and become lethargic. In severe cases, grape and raisin poisoning can lead to renal failure and death. The exact mechanism by which grapes and raisins cause toxicity is unknown, but it is thought that grape seed extract or a compound in grape skins may be responsible. For this reason, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid feeding your dog any grapes or raisins.

    Sneaky Ingredients

    Grapes can hide in some foods that you may sneak to your pups as occasional treats. The obvious sources of toxicity are food products that contain grapes and raisins, such as breads, hot cross buns, fruit cake or cookies. If you have children you will want to monitor them anytime they are eating raisins, incase any fall on the ground.

    My dog only ate one grape, should I be worried?

    Smaller dogs are also more susceptible to toxicity because they have a higher ratio of body surface area to body weight. However, there have been cases of toxicity in large dogs like Great Danes after eating just a few grapes. Many dogs with high body weight have been shown to show signs of damaged kidney function, trouble breathing, abdominal pain, or inability to produce urine just after a few grapes.

    So, if your dog ate just one you may want to consider taking them to the vet just in case. Grapes and raisins can be harmful, even if it is just one.

    Seeking out the soonest vet immediately

    The best thing you can do is try to prevent your dog from getting into a situation where they have access to grapes in the first place. Not all dogs will respond to treatment the same. However, the sooner treatment takes place with any dog experiencing grape and raisin toxicity, the better.

    Is there a set amount of grapes and raisins that will create grape toxicity?

    Overall, it is not proven exactly how many will cause harm to your individual Great Dane. So many factors are at play, many of which we are unaware of.

    It is safest to completely avoid grapes at all cost. Protecting your Great Dane from grapes, especially if you have children who eat grapes and may drop them, is of huge importance.

    IMG 9502 1
    Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout
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    Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout
    Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout

    My dog accidentally ate grapes or raisins, what should I do?

    If your dog has accidentally ingested grapes or raisins, it is important to take action immediately and take them to the vet immediately. Although the toxic dose of grapes varies depending on the size of the dog, even a small amount can potentially cause kidney damage. Even if you have a large dog who has eaten grapes, it is important to rule out kidney damage with blood tests and pursue treating grape poison.

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    Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout
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    Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout
    Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout

    What will happen after my dog gets to the vet?

    You may be able to give them medication that will make them throw up any food they’ve already ingested within the past 2-3 hours of time before bringing this information forward so we can get rid if these pesky little fruits from our furry friends systems!

    Should I look for signs of poison after my dog eats grapes?

    Symptoms of grape toxicity in dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. In severe cases, dogs may experience kidney failure and death. If you suspect that your dog has ingested grapes or raisins, contact your veterinarian immediately.

    Encouraging Vomiting

    Like stated, after looking at your dog’s medical history, they will likely recommend making your dog vomit with activated charcoal and provide supportive care to protect your dog’s kidneys. With prompt treatment, most dogs make a full recovery from grape toxicity.

    The toxicity of grapes is dose-dependent, meaning that the more grapes your dog consumes, the more likely they are to experience problems. 

    What are the signs of grape and raisin toxicity?

    Some of the most common signs of grape and raisin toxicity are lethargy, pale gums, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The abdominal pain is often followed by a decrease in urine production. This is caused because when dogs eat some toxic items (even the lowest toxic dose) it affects their kidney, which interacts with their urine output. Some dogs with pre existing conditions might be more prone to toxicity, whereas other dogs might not show signs as quickly.

    Great Dane Puppy Treats
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    Check out some of our favorite treats for healthy pups!

    Signs of Dog Grape or Raisin Ingestion

    Common signs include pale gums, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, fruit toxicity can lead to acute renal failure and kidney damage. If you suspect that your dog has consumed grapes or raisins, it is important to seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Early treatment is essential for preventing serious complications.If your Great Dane ate grapes, you should watch for symptoms of grape poisoning. These symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and lack of appetite. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to contact your veterinarian right away.

    Should you look for a ‘dry nose’ when examining symptoms?

    No, there are many reasons why a healthy dog will have a dry nose. Do not consider a dog’s nose moisture a factor when examining whether or not your pup has been exposed to toxins or not.

    How long after eating a grape will symptoms take to show up?

    • Usually between 2-12 hours after ingesting- your dog will begin to vomit
    • Between 12-24 hours after ingestion your dog can experience stomach/abdominal sensitivity and pain
    • Loss of appetite can occur within 24-48 hours after ingestion, but different waiting periods apply
    • Your dog might act extra tired, lack energy or be lazier than usual between 24-48 hours after ingestion
    • Increased thirst can indicate acute kidney failure and can occur within 24-72 hours after ingestion and should be treated as an emergency
    Read our E Collar Guide Here

    Pale, gray gums are always an immediate emergency as they indicate loss of blood internally, organs shutting down, blood clots, or heart attacks. If your dog has pale gums you should get a blood test immediately.

    What should I do if my dog eats a grape?

    Long story short, you need to seek emergency care immediately. Is there a chance that your dog will process the toxin and be completely fine? Yes. However, the risk that you take with not seeking treatment is acute kidney failure and even death. Your veterinarian will give dog activated charcoal to hurry the process of vomiting when they eat grapes. If dogs eat grapes, it is considered an emergency. This applies to raisins as well.

    IMG 5405
    Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout
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    Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout

    If you notice that your pup eats grapes, call your veterinarian or emergency vet, and get to the soonest appointment. It is not safe when dogs eat grapes, and should be treated

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    At your appointment, your Great Dane will be given medication to induce vomiting. Next, they will provide medications, IV fluids, and any other support for your Great Dane that they might need to keep their kidneys functioning.

    Please note: many people have begun to induce vomiting in their own Great Danes, at home. There are, however, many very dangerous methods that have been conducted to induce vomiting. Some examples of extremely dangerous means of inducing vomiting are: salt, gagging your Great Dane, using oils, using Ipecac, and most commonly: peroxide. Peroxide has been an ‘up-and-coming’, popular means for inducing vomiting in pets at home, but can pose many dangers. If you are considering administering peroxide at home, you should call Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 prior to administration. The APCC will help you determine whether or not giving peroxide is a safe idea for your situation.

    Animal Poison Control Center

    Grapes and Dogs Do Not Mix!

    If you think your pup has grape poisoning, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.

    The treatment for grape toxicity will depend on the severity of the toxicity and how quickly you seek treatment.

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    If your dog has only eaten a few grapes, they may only need to be monitored for symptoms. However, if your dog has eaten a large number or is showing severe symptoms, they may need to be hospitalized for treatment.

    It is best to be vigilant with keeping toxic items out of the paws and mouths of our furry friends! Let us know if you need any help or have any questions!

  • How Long Do Great Danes Live?

    How Long Do Great Danes Live?

    How long do Great Danes live?

    Our favorite breed of dog is known by many to have a shorter lifespan, but that doesn’t have to be a reality. What is the Great Dane lifespan and how can we extend our favorite dog’s life?

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    Great Danes live an average of about 8-10 years, but with good breeding practices and a proper diet and exercise regime, they can live up to 12 years old or more!

    Many people have experienced the devastating loss of a Great Dane at a young age and this happens most often because of bloat, heart conditions, orthopedic problems, and other genetic issues.

    On the flip side, many people have had Great Danes live for 10 years or even longer!

    There is a misperception about the lifespan of Great Danes, and we are here to fix that. Great Danes make amazing family pets in the right homes, and can absolutely live long and healthy lives.

    GREAT DANE LIFESPAN

    HOW LONG DO GREAT DANES LIVE?

    HOW LONG DO GREAT DANES LIVE

    It is well known that Great Danes tend to have shorter lives than other smaller dogs. This is because they are a giant breed and are prone to a number of health problems. (Health Risks in Great Danes)

    Great Danes live, on average, 8-10 years.

    Many smaller dogs live 10-15 years, for comparison.

    The average life expectancy of a gentle giant is low, but it doesn’t have to be!

    The oldest Great Dane currently known in 2021 is Maggie Mae, at the ripe old age of 16.

    Some of the health problems that Great Danes are prone to include canine hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, bloat, cancer, and heart disease which can lower the average life span. All of these health issues can be genetic, and lead to a shorter lifespan in the breed as a whole.

    BLOATLEARN ABOUT BLOAT HERE
    IS BLOAT PREVENTABLE?
    GASTROPEXY SURGERY- STOMACH TACKING
    DOES GUT HEALTH RELATE TO BLOAT?
    HOW FAST DOES BLOAT HAPPEN?
    JOINT AND BONE DISEASESArthritis in Great Danes
    Laser Therapy for Joint Pain
    How to Help a Dog with a Broken Leg
    Using CBD for My Dog’s Pain
    Canine Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

    Great Danes can live long, robust lives. While 8-10 years is the average, many live to be 12 years of age or more!

    Since Great Danes are such big dogs, they frequently suffer from a list of health issues that are often FATAL and nearly always GENETIC. These health issues significantly lower the average expected lifespan. Unethical breeding practices are to blame, not the Great Dane breed itself.

    What is OFA Health Testing?
    Is Embark a ‘Good Enough’ Health Test?
    Health Risks in Great Danes

    It is entirely possible to keep a Great Dane healthy- and it all starts with choosing an ethical breeder for your Dane puppy.

    Bad Breeders
    Scam Breeders: What to Look For
    Breeders: Shady Business
    Should I Choose a Breeder or Rescue?

    Find a Great Dane Rescue
    Choosing a Dog From a Show Breeder

    HOW LONG DO GREAT DANES LIVE

    A harlequin Great Dane in the grass. A Great Dane’s life expectancy does not need to be short! Big dogs can live a long and healthy, happy life.

    The health conditions that can impact a Great Dane and other big dog breeds include: 

    • Wobblers Disease (Genetic link) (Wobblers)
    • Arthritis (Genetic link, especially when looking at structural problems that contribute) (Arthritis in Great Danes)
    • Cancer (Genetic link)
    • Bloat (Genetic link) (What is Bloat?)
    • Blood Clotting Disorders (Genetic)
    • Degenerative Disorders (Genetic link)
    • Heart Disease, including DCM (Genetic link)

    HEART DISEASE AND AVERAGE LIFE EXPECTANCY OF A DOG’S LIFE

    DCM (Dilated Cardiomyopathy) is a silent killer. Many Danes are lost to this but it’s not always diagnosed; they often have very few symptoms and may pass suddenly (as if they had a heart attack).

    Heart Disease and Other Health Conditions
    Is My Dog ‘Filling Out’ or Getting Fat?
    8 Nutrition Facts to Keep Your Dog at the Right Weight
    Obesity in Great Danes: Fat Danes Face Serious Health Risks

    BLOAT IN GIANT BREED DOGS

    Bloat is an exceptionally dangerous and scary killer; it happens fast and can take a Great Dane’s life in a matter of hours.

    LEARN ABOUT BLOAT HERE
    IS BLOAT PREVENTABLE?
    GASTROPEXY SURGERY- STOMACH TACKING
    DOES GUT HEALTH RELATE TO BLOAT?
    HOW FAST DOES BLOAT HAPPEN?

    BLOOD CLOTTING DISORDERS AND HUGE DOGS

    Blood clotting disorders are often to blame for Great Danes that don’t make it through routine surgical procedures such as spaying and neutering.

    WOBBLERS SYNDROME AND LARGE DOGS

    Wobblers is a devastating disease that takes mobility away from Great Danes.

    Wobblers Syndrome and Pain Relief

    BONE DISEASE AND GIANT BREEDS

    A Great Dane’s life span is highly impacted by the dog’s quality of joints and mobility.

    Hip Dysplasia is a chronic disease that impacts Great Danes and other large dog breeds.

    Arthritis in Great Danes
    Laser Therapy for Joint Pain
    How to Help a Dog with a Broken Leg
    Using CBD for My Dog’s Pain
    Canine Hip Dysplasia

    Your dog’s chances of developing Hip and Elbow Dysplasia are higher if you choose a reputable breeder who’s dogs have a health history of having Hip Dysplasia or other joint related health problems.

    How to Find a Great Dane Breeder Near Me
    What is OFA Health Testing?
    What Makes a Breeder Good?

    JOINT SUPPLEMENTS FOR GENTLE GIANTS

    Since Great Danes frequently suffer from joint problems, and it is known that mobility issues can lower the average lifespan, it is important to start your Great Danes on joint supplements. Great Danes should be on a joint supplement from the time they are just a Great Dane puppy until they are adult dogs.

    When you are raising Great Dane puppies, keep them on a healthy diet and Buffered Esther Vitamin C, which will support their joints and keep them from knuckling.

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

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    To support your dog’s joints during their adult lives, include Glucosamine and/or Dasuquin in their healthy diet to promote good health of their joints.

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    It is very unlikely that a Great Dane with any of these unfortunately common disorders will live long and robust (10+ year) lives.

    HOW DO I MAKE MY GREAT DANE LIVE LONGER?

    The reality here is that most of us want our Great Danes to live forever. So then, how do we make the Great Dane lifespan as long as possible and minimize the health risks?

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    There are things you can do to help them live long, healthy lives and increase the average lifespan. The most important one starts with the breeder you choose. 

    HOW DOES BACKYARD BREEDING IMPACT THE WAY A GREAT DANE LOOKS?
    HOW DOES SPAYING A GREAT DANE TOO YOUNG IMPACT A WAY A GREAT DANE LOOKS?
    The Great Dane Breed Standard

    CHOOSE A RESPONSIBLE BREEDER

    Many of the Great Dane breeders perpetuating these common health problems are friendly, say they ‘health test’, breed often and have cute puppies and nice websites!

    Treat cautiously with ‘friendly backyard breeders’ who are more interested in profits than the breed itself.

    Breeders: Shady Business
    Should I Choose a Breeder or Rescue?
    Choosing a Dog From a Show Breeder
    What Makes a Breeder Good?
    What is a backyard breeder? The AKC has 1000’s.

    Friendly backyard breeders may even be popular, especially on social media. It’s easy to fall into this trap, and it’s unfortunate because bad genetics is like a game of telephone. 

    It’s very hard to get rid of the bad genetics so long as they continue to be reproduced.

    CHOOSE A GENTLE GIANT THAT HAS BEEN HEALTH TESTED

    What is OFA Health Testing
    Is Embark a ‘Good Enough’ Health Test?

    Wobblers, bloat, heart issues, blood clotting disorders, anxiety, painful structural problems (including flat feet and roached back) and even cancer have genetic links that can be traced back to the lineage and careless breeding.

    HOW TO TRIM YOUR PUPPIES NAILS
    HOW TO STRENGTHEN YOUR DOG’S FEET

    TAKE CARE OF YOUR GREAT DANE

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    Great Danes require different care than other dogs or other breeds.

    Knowing what type of care your Great Danes require can help to increase their life span.

    You can help extend the life of your Great Dane, and improve the lives of the breed as a whole by taking the following steps:

    KEEPING YOUR GREAT DANES LEAN AND NOT OVERWEIGHT

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    Is My Great Dane Overweight?

    Since Great Danes are the largest dogs, Great Dane owners are often found ‘fighting’ over whose dog is bigger.

    This is completely backwards and will lead to a shorter life span!

    Some Great Danes are bigger naturally and will still lead a healthy life.

    However, so many Great Danes are overweight and obese, which in turn, leads to short life spans.

    Take your Great Danes swimming, provide them with activity and a healthy diet. Only a handful of Great Danes are ACTUALLY too thin!

    Socialization Activities For Great Danes
    Can Great Danes Swim?
    Is My Puppy Too Skinny?

    Their waistline should be visible when looking down at your dog from above, and you should be able to feel their ribs with light pressure but not see them.

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    An Underweight Great Dane
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    A Healthy Weight Great Dane
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    An Overweight Great Dane

    An hour a day of moderate activity is what’s recommended for most adult Great Danes.

    Is My Dog ‘Filling Out’ or Getting Fat?
    8 Nutrition Facts to Keep Your Dog at the Right Weight
    Obesity in Great Danes: Fat Danes Face Serious Health Risks

    DECREASE RISK OF BLOAT

    Bloat is one of the largest killers of Great Danes and leads to a short life span in the breed altogether.

    Working to prevent bloat in the first place will help your dog lead a longer life span. (Read more)

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

    Bloat has several indicators of causation: gut health, anxiety, and genetics.

    There are a few theories that are just completely wrong in regards to bloat, and the myths perpetuate the communities:

    1. MYTH 1: Raised feeders can prevent bloat. WRONG!
    2. MYTH 2: Resting before and after a meal will prevent bloat. WRONG!
    3. MYTH 3: Large meals that are scheduled will prevent bloat. WRONG!

    READ MORE BLOAT MYTHS AND WHAT THE TRUTH ACTUALLY IS HERE!

    ELIMINATE ANXIETY

    Did you know that anxiety can actually shorten a Great Dane’s life? (More about lifespan here)

    Since ANXIETY, of all things, is a key indicator of bloat, it is absolutely crucial to keep your Great Dane stress free. (BLOAT AND ANXIETY)

    Use crate training as a form of keeping your dog stress-free and safe.

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

    Screen Shot 2022 05 05 at 12.50.12 PM

    Shop the best crate for Great Danes on Chewys

    Use e collar training to help your Great Dane know the boundaries and rules of society, which will help your Great Dane lead a stress and anxiety free life.

    KEEP THE NAILS TRIMMED AND SHORT ON YOUR GREAT DANE

    Since a big Great Dane is prone to developing painful arthritis, Great Danes need their nails kept trimmed and short.

    Check them regularly and if they get too long, it is far past due.

    THE BEST NAIL CLIPPERS AND FILERS FOR BIG DOGS
    GREAT DANE NAIL TOOLS
    HOW TO TRIM YOUR PUPPIES NAILS
    HOW TO STRENGTHEN YOUR DOG’S FEET
    THE 7 BEST NAIL CLIPPERS FOR GREAT DANES

    If you have a Great Dane, you should be familiar with the tools required to groom their nails, and become familiar with how to use them.

    Your options are to use a Dremel or nail clippers.

    Click below to shop our favorites of each.

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    A Great Dane should get their nails trimmed weekly! If you are not comfortable trimming the nails of your Great Dane by yourself, you should schedule regular veterinary visits to get them taken care of.

    A Great Dane has big, strong nails, so it can be very painful if they are touching the floor.

    More so, it can actually cause joint and structural issues if the nails of a Great Dane are too long.

    Check out our favorite grooming tools for the big nails of a Great Dane here.

    EXERCISE FOR A GREAT DANE

    Great Danes are NOT couch potatoes!

    Nothing in life, not a Great Dane and not smaller breeds should be left stagnant!

    Most dogs thrive when they get an abundance of free play, exercise, and training, which can help them grow both physically and mentally.

    Puppy Culture: A Way to Socialize from the Start
    Puppy Socialization Guide
    Puppy Training: 5 Mistakes in Training
    Canine Good Citizen Training for Great Danes
    Your Puppy is Bored

    Proper exercise for a Great Dane includes offering plenty of free play and exploration on soft, varied terrain. For this reason, we believe that all Great Danes should be reliably off-leash trained!

    Using an e collar to train your Great Dane is one of the best ways to ensure that you can provide your Great Dane with the proper amount of free play and freedom that they need.

    E Collar Training Guide
    E Collar Myths
    What is an E Collar?
    SHOULD I USE A BARK COLLAR ON MY GREAT DANE?
    What is the Difference Between an E Collar and a Shock Collar?
    9 Reasons to E Collar Train Your Great Dane Puppy
    Is the Gentle Leader an Abusive Tool?
    99 Reasons Why to Use an E Collar and a Shock Ain’t One
    Things that are More Aversive Than an E Collar in Training
    E Collars are NOT Shock Collars
    Proper E Collar Placement
    E Collar Comfort Pads

    EZ 900 Right

    View remote and collar sets in our shop- we offer free shipping.

    THE SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT THING

    If we want to increase the lifespan of Great Danes, choosing responsible breeders is the most important, humane and thoughtful thing any of us can do.

    animals dogs dutch green grass

    Good breeders are actively looking reduce the incidence of bloat, cardiomyopathy, wobblers and cancer.

    People need to understand that poor breeding practices are largely to blame, not the breed itself.

    READ MORE:

    Great Dane Not Eating – What to Do

    Great Dane Farts: The Funniest Collection of Photos and Videos on the Internet

    The Best Collars for Great Danes

    Blue Great Danes – Facts, Photos, and Care

    The Top 5 Adorable Facts About Great Dane Brindle Dogs

    Want more information on Great Danes? Read the resources at the Great Dane Club of America. and the Great Dane Club of Canada.

  • My Great Dane is Coughing

    My Great Dane is Coughing

    It can be alarming if your Great Dane is coughing! Any time our beloved pets are hacking, choking, gagging, or coughing it’s definitely alarming.

    We recently had a major health scare with our otherwise very healthy 8-month Mantle Dane Figaro.

    It started with a dry cough and within hours become a life-threatening emergency.

    Coughing is something to take seriously. We don’t want to scare you, but if you are hearing the tell-tale signs of your dog being unwell, you’ve come to the right place for information.

    If your Great Dane is coughing and has a persistent dry or wet cough, we encourage you to see your veterinarian as soon as possible. 

    As you will see below, nearly every reason that your Great Dane is coughing could be moderately serious, if not severe, and needs to be addressed.

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    Reasons why your Great Dane is coughing

    While the occasional cough is not uncommon for any dog, there are specific reasons why a Great Dane might start coughing more frequently. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for ensuring your pet’s well being. The problem with coughing in dogs is that it’s rarely a benign problem; coughing is nearly always an indication of something more serious.

    Here are the most common reasons why a Great Dane may be coughing:

    • Heartworms & other parasites
    • Congestive Heart Failure, including DCM/Dilated Cardiomyopathy (Genetic or Nutrition-Related)
    • Foreign object or fluid in the lungs (aspiration) or throat (irritation)
    • Distemper
    • Bronchitis
    • Pneumonia
    • Lung Cancer
    • Fungal Infections
    • Kennel Cough (which while generally mild can easily become deadly if left untreated)

    I cannot say this enough; if your Great Dane is coughing, your first course of action should be to call (and visit) the veterinarian. Even if you think you are dealing with a basic common case of kennel cough.

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    Heart Worms in Great Danes Coughing

    Heart worms are NASTY and may be the reason that your dog is coughing.

    Heart Worms can happen to dogs anywhere, however they are most common in warm, humid areas.

    These nasty Heart worms are transmitted via mosquitoes. This process of reproduction can result in 100’s of long wiggly worms filling up your dog’s heart. This can cause your dog to cough, and will eventually lead to death if left untreated.

    Heart worm treatment often takes a long time and can be expensive, dangerous, and difficult especially if you haven’t caught it early.

    Your veterinarian can prescribe preventatives, and yearly heart worm tests should be done during routine veterinary visits. We recommend that all Great Danes receive veterinary backed flea, heartworm, and tick prevention. Learn more about this HERE.

    Interested in learning more about heartworms in general? Read more about heart worms HERE.

    Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) & Congestive Heart Failure Causes Coughing

    Great Danes with Congestive Heart Failure or DCM (Dilated Cardiomyopathy) will tire out easily and may develop a persistent cough.

    DCM (Dilated Cardiomyopathy) is one cause of congestive heart failure, however, there are many others (including birth defects, disorders of the heart and MVI (Mitral Valve Insufficiency).

    Many times, a dog with DCM dog will show no symptoms at all. The cough that develops is often an indication that the disease progression has reached a serious and dire level.

    There are two forms of DCM. Genetic (primary) and Nutrition-Related (secondary).

    Ethical Great Dane breeders do an echocardiogram on their dogs prior to breeding. This OFA health test can help to rule out the existence of heart disorders that may have genetic links, hoping to eliminate genetic (primary) DCM from their pedigree.

    Secondary DCM (Nutrition) is caused by feeding an unbalanced, incorrect diet. Unfortunately, MANY dry diets on the market are unsafe to feed.

    If your dog has been fed a boutique food diet, whether it is ‘grain-free’ or not and is coughing, you must see a veterinarian immediately.

    Boutique food brands include Fromm, Victor, 4Health, Diamond Naturals, Costco, Nulo, Nutro, Nutra Nuggets, Taste of the Wild, The Farmer’s Dog, Spot & Tango, Instinct, Nature’s Logic, Open Farm, or any other brand that doesn’t have a board-certified veterinary nutritionist or PhD in Animal Nutrition on staff to formulate and thoroughly test their foods.

    We only recommend feeding diets that meet WSAVA recommendations. These diets include Purina, Hill’s, Royal Canin, Eukanuba, and Iam’s. Purina and Hill’s are often prescribed to reverse nutritional DCM; we know they are a quality, safe, and nutritious food backed by a lot of science and research.

    If your dog is tiring easily and has difficulty breathing and/or a persistent cough, see a veterinarian immediately. For more information about dietary DCM and choosing pet food, the following links should be very helpful to you!

    Is Grain-Free Dog Food Healthier?

    Dog Food DCM Update

    Dr. Judy Morgan & DCM Misinformation

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    Kennel Cough in Great Danes

    Kennel cough is a COMMON cause of cough in dogs, and the least alarming overall. It does, however still require monitoring and treatment, as Kennel Cough can quickly turn into deadly pneumonia.

    Kennel Cough is highly contagious and often picked up in places such as dog parks, pet stores, and training or boarding facilities. There is a kennel cough vaccine (also called ‘Bordatella’), however, it is not effective against every strain.

    Your dog may get kennel cough whether they have been vaccinated or not!

    Symptoms of kennel cough in Great Danes include:

    • Unproductive dry cough that may be persistent
    • Runny nose
    • Sneezing
    • Low energy
    • Mild fever
    • Decreased appetite

    While kennel cough itself is usually simple to treat, you should still see your veterinarian.

    Untreated kennel cough can quickly become serious, and antibiotics may be needed, even if your dog was vaccinated against kennel cough!

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    Pneumonia in Great Danes & Coughing

    Pneumonia is serious and requires immediate medical attention.

    A dog can get pneumonia anytime a cough has developed, especially if the cough is the result of a foreign body or substance in the lungs (such as water or mud, for example).

    Kennel cough can progress to pneumonia if left untreated.

    If your dog’s cough appears to be getting worse or sounds wet, head to the emergency veterinarian.

    Left untreated, bacterial infections and fluid can build up and cause high fever and organ failure.

    Here are some signs that your dog has a serious problem and may be experiencing pneumonia:

    • Throwing up, bile, foam
    • Weakness, lethargy
    • Pale gums, sunken eyes
    • Wet cough
    • Difficulty breathing/stridor
    • Shaking, drooling or panting
    • Fever

    Great Dane Life Span

    Great Dane Not Eating: What to do

    What Foods Help a Dog’s Upset Stomach?

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    Distemper in Great Danes

    Distemper is a serious viral illness that affects dogs of all ages.

    The virus can cause a number of symptoms, including fever, coughing, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can even lead to seizures and death.

    The good news is that distemper is preventable with vaccination.

    Puppies should be vaccinated at an early age, and adult dogs should receive booster shots every year.

    If you suspect that your dog has distemper, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. With prompt treatment, many dogs are able to recover from the illness.

    Lung Cancer in Dogs

    While lung cancer is relatively rare in dogs, it is still a serious condition that can have a devastating impact on your furry friend.

    Symptoms of lung cancer in dogs include:

    • Difficulty breathing
    • A persistent cough
    • Loss of appetite

    If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to take your dog to the vet for a check-up as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment is critical for giving your dog the best chance possible of beating the disease.

    Treatment options for lung cancer in dogs include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemo therapy.

    The type of treatment that is best for your dog will depend on the severity of the cancer or tumor and how far it has spread.

    Fungal Infection & Coughing in Dogs

    Systematic Fungal infection is a surprising cause of cough in dogs.

    They can be difficult to treat, so early diagnosis is essential.

    Dogs can get a fungal infection from soil, water, or other animals.

    Symptoms include:

    • Coughing
    • Nasal discharge
    • Blood
    • Watery eyes
    • Lethargy
    • Eye problems
    • Seizures
    • Muscle Wasting

    If left untreated, the infection can cause serious damage to the lungs and other organs and may lead to paralysis or death.

    How to Treat a Dog’s Cough

    Coughing in dogs is nearly always serious. We recommend that you seek veterinary care if your dog is coughing.

    The veterinarian will listen to your dogs lungs and heart and take a temperature.

    Some of these symptoms are also present in bloat or because a dog ingested something poisonous, and they will be able to sort out the problem. Make sure to tell your veterinarian about the timeline of symptoms and what the early symptoms looked like.

    Additional diagnostics may include x-rays, echocardiogram, blood work and monitoring (hospitalization).

    Depending on the reason for the coughing, treatment may include antibiotics (IV or oral), fluids (IV or oral), oxygen support, steam therapy, surgery, sedation, ongoing medications, a change in diet, and rest.

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    Holistic Cough Treatments for Dogs

    Once you have worked with your veterinarian to develop a comprehensive, scientific treatment plan you may wish to use some holistic home support.

    Here are some holistic cough therapies for dogs.

    As before, always check with your veterinarian!

    Fluids – Make sure your pup is drinking enough water and staying hydrated. You can encourage drinking by adding bone broth to water or by soaking kibble. If at anytime you see signs of dehydration (sunken eyes, lethargy, dry nose, vomiting, lack of skin elasticity or sticky gums), consult your veterinarian.

    Rest – Just like humans, dogs need rest to recover! Now is not the time to visit the dog park, training center or do anything stressful (visiting the groomer comes to mind!).

    Walks – Your veterinarian may advise that you to take your dog out on short walks to keep the body moving and encourage fluid and gunk in the lungs to break up and move along. If your dog pulls, use a non-obstructive y-front harness and a long leash so that the trachea isn’t further irritated by tension from the collar or training tools.

    Humidifier & Steam Therapy – It can be helpful to use a humidifier or sit in a humid bathroom. This can provide some comfort and encourage your dog to cough up any remaining gunk.

    Temperature Monitoring – By keeping tabs on your dog’s body temperature, you can be more aware of early signs that an infection is building or not being adequately targeted by medications.

  • Double Merle Great Danes: 5 Facts About White Great Danes

    Double Merle Great Danes: 5 Facts About White Great Danes

    You may have heard the term ‘Double Merle’ associated with Great Danes. Double Merle Great Danes can be beautiful, but why are they this color? How do you get a pure white Great Dane?

    Here are 5 facts about white Great Danes that you maybe didn’t know!

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    What Are Double Merle Great Danes?

    A double merle Great Dane will be most often all white or close to it. (White Great Danes). Some may have merle patches and not be pure white.

    As striking as they can be, this is not a color that should be intentionally produced, celebrated, or desired in Great Danes.

    Double Merle Great Danes are often blind and/or deaf and can have other significant health problems, including autoimmune disorders, eye disorders, deformities, aggression, allergies, and problems with their heart, thyroid, and digestive system.

    It’s important to note that not all ‘double merle’ dogs will have health or temprement problems. However, many will.

    Many DM (double-merle) Great Danes are pure white, however, they can have some spots (most often merle patches). The absence of color around the ears and eyes is a contributing factor to deafness and blindness.

    A Harlequin Great Dane is white with torn black patches and is NOT double-merle. Fawnequin and brindlequin are also not double merle, even though they have a white base coat like a harlequin does.

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    A double-merle white Great Dane

    How Are Double Merle Great Danes Made?

    Many Great Danes carry the merle gene. Merle genes are responsible for creating the beautiful Merle and Harlequin coats, as well as many off standard colors with spots (‘merlequin’, ‘fawnequin’, etc.).

    By itself, the merle gene is ok.

    When a puppy receives TWO copies of the merle gene (one from each parent that carries it), they are ‘double-merle’.

    Double Merle puppies happen in litters where a breeder paired (either intentionally or accidentally) two dogs that each carry the merle gene. Not all puppies in a litter bred like this will be double-merle.

    Each puppy in the litter has a 1-in-4 chance of receiving BOTH merle genes. To put this into perspective, that’s leaves each puppy (in the litter) a 75% chance that they will NOT be double merle, and have a normal single-merle coat pattern.

    It is important to note that Double Merle dogs are 100% preventable.

    This highlights the importance of genetic color testing prior to breeding, for breeders that are unsure if either dog in the pairing is merle or not. Color testing can be done HERE.

    Double Merle Great Dane Health Problems

    Not all white Great Danes will have health problems. However, because of their unique genetic makeup, many of them do. Here are some common things seen in double-merle Great Danes.

    • Deafness
    • Blindness
    • Under developed eyes
    • Eye problems that lead to pain or blindness
    • Auto-immune disorders
    • Allergies and skin sensitivities
    • Poor overall conformation (resulting from bad breeding practices)
    • Aggression, fear, and other temperament problems (instability)
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    A white Great Dane

    Double Merle Practices & History in Great Danes

    Double merle dogs are most often produced by unethical backyard breeders who either had “no idea this could happen“, or didn’t care.

    Some breeders pair merle + merle dogs because they are in pursuit of ‘interesting’ designer colors. The flashy merle gene may result in some puppies getting catchy or trending colors that sell well and result in profits for the breeder.

    Additionally, in the world of show dogs, some show breeders intentionally pair two Harlequin Great Danes with exceptional pedigrees because the pairing may produce desirable ‘show marked Harlequins’.

    At times, this is done because well-built and appropriate black or mantle studs are hard to find, and keeping the gene pool diverse is important.

    Unlike the backyard breeders who don’t understand genetics, however, a show breeder pairing merle + merle will often utilize genetic testing and a thorough study of the pedigree, which can help greatly reduce the risks associated with this practice.

    The actual length of the merle gene carried by each parent can affect the outcome, and will be part of the considerations involved when pairing two dogs with a merle gene. This is what makes color testing so important.

    The GDCA condones this practice, as of this writing.

    Editor’s Note: At Hello Danes we are fierce advocates for truly ethical show breeders. It’s important to note that there is a massive difference between a backyard breeder (whom we don’t support for any reason) and a breeder who is showing, color testing, and fully OFA health testing their dogs prior to breeding.

    While we don’t personally condone the practice of breeding “spot to spot” for show purposes, we recognize that it happens and understand why. It’s seen in MANY pedigrees.

    Our stance is that backyard breeders and unethical breeders, especially those breeding for fancy colors and dumping puppies in rescue are the biggest issue to contend with when it comes to double-merle dogs.

    It’s important that Dane owners not get ‘lost’ in the double-merle discussion, as 100% of sick, unhealthy, abandoned double-merle puppies are coming from unethical breeders.

    3 4

    Double Merle Danes & Breeders

    Unethical breeders who produce white puppies may lie to buyers about them. They will often say that they are a ‘designer color’ and sell them at a premium price. Many others will dump them on rescues when they are born.

    These are not reputable practices. It doesn’t matter how ‘friendly’ or nice the breeder seems, if they are dumping white puppies or selling them at a premium, they are a backyard breeder.


    The Great Dane Club of America condones the practice of hard culling (euthanizing) deaf double-merle puppies by 5 weeks of age; this is practiced by some breeders, most often the ‘old school’ type.

    Advances in merle gene color testing, we believe, has greatly reduced this practice.

    Other breeders (typically the show breeders that are focused on structure, health, and temperament) take responsibility for these pups (if they end up with some in a litter) and will find them suitable, quality homes and support them for life.

    Always ask questions and never support breeders that don’t ethically take care of pups from their double-merle pairings!

    In a spot-spot pairing, each puppy has a 25% (or 1 in 4) chance of receiving both copies of the merle gene (one from each parent), making them ‘double merle’. 

    Some of the double merle puppies will be reabsorbed by the mother long before birth, they simply don’t make it.

    In a live litter, there may be no double merle puppies or there could be several.

    Be clear about statistics with this one. Some people will say that 25% of the litter will be double merle, and that’s not how it works.


    Each puppy is the one saddled with that 1-in-4 statistic, not the litter as a whole.

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    Great Dane Genetics & Color Testing

    Ethical, educated breeders who aren’t sure and want to avoid breeding double-merle dogs in the first place will use modern advances in genetics testing to confirm the colors of each dog in a potential pairing.

    This test can be found HERE.

    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?

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    Off-Standard Colors & The Merle Gene

    The merle gene is beautiful and flashy. It’s responsible for Harlequin and Merle (standard colors) which are always popular.

    (OFF STANDARD GREAT DANES)

    If you are looking for a color that isn’t accepted by the AKC as a show color, tread cautiously.

    Some fancy colors are the result of spot-spot breedings, and unethical breeders will do this because they know it may get you to spend your money with them.

    Merlequin is a popular off-standard color that comes from spot-spot breed pairings. Genetically, a Merlequin is actually a double-merle dog.

    Like any other double-merle, this dog may or may not have health problems.

    If you are set on finding a puppy in a ‘designer‘ color, make sure your breeder is focused first on health, structure, and temperament.

    Merlequin are double-merle dogs who have the harlequin pattern (torn patches of color) but instead of having mostly black torn patches, all of their patches are merle. Imagine a harlequin Dane with merle spots instead of black and merle spots, essentially.

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    Double Merle Great Danes in Rescue

    Entire rescues are dedicated to helping the double-merle dogs that are created by unethical breeding practices, and they are FULL.

    Just the other day I saw a 4-month-old white puppy. The rescue was looking for a very special and hard-to-find home because the puppy was already showing signs of aggression, fear, and guarding.

    She required surgery to remove her eyes because they did not develop properly. She also had additional structural problems that will lead to pain later in life.

    Backyard breeding is not ok. This is not ok. We have to STOP supporting breeders that do this, whether it was intentional or not. The breeders won’t stop, so it’s up to us as puppy buyers and advocates for Great Danes.

    Double Merle Great Danes

    Adopt a Double Merle Dog

    If we want to stop the production of double-merle dogs, we have to educate people so that they stop rewarding breeders for producing them.

    Double Merle dogs are 100% preventable. There is no excuse, but despite the existence of blogs, veterinary documents, reputable breeders, educated buyers, rescues, and people like us who shout from the rooftops, it still happens.

    Share this with others, keep spreading the word. Great Dane owners with ‘ooops’ litters that happen ‘accidentally’ between their pet Danes are another contributor. This is also preventable through educated ownership and responsibility.

    Support 501c3 Great Dane rescues, adopt double merles, choose only highly ethical breeders, and have fun with your Danes!

    READ MORE:

    Top 5 Adorable Facts About Great Danes

    What Does Euro Mean In Great Danes?
    Great Dane Not Eating – What to Do
    Great Dane Farts: The Funniest Collection of Photos and Videos on the Internet
    The Best Collars for Great Danes
    Blue Great Danes – Facts, Photos, and Care
    Great Dane Colors