Everybody wants to take amazing photos of their pet. Today we are sharing our 5 top phone photography tips for dogs!
Here is the good news: you don’t need a fancy camera. Most cell phones take great photos, once you know the tricks of the trade. We are here to help!
Good photography is all about lighting and the story being told. Are you ready to learn how to take better photos of your dog? Let’s get started. ?
Dog Phone Photography 101: Lighting is Key
The difference between an ‘ok’ photo and a great photo of your dog is lighting!
If you are indoors, get near a window and put the window behind your back. The light coming into the window will help illuminate your pet and make their eyes shine bright!
If you are outdoors, here are some other dog photography lighting tips:
On sunny, bright days find a patch of open shade. Avoid harsh shadows and squinting by finding nice spots under trees and next to buildings!
On cloudy days, hold up your hand. Is it gray and dull? Turn your body around until the skin on your hand looks nice and warm. That’s where you want your dog to be when you take the photo!
On snowy days, get out and play! The bright snow and clouds consistently make for gorgeous, well-lit photos!
Use natural light as much as possible. Lightbulbs put out a color that will make your images look too warm, dingy, green, or pink. One exception is daylight-balanced LED lighting, which can help illuminate your indoor dog photos!
Put the window behind your back to illuminate your pet when taking a photo indoors.
Train Your Dog to Stay for a Photo
All of this beautiful lighting won’t matter if your dog won’t sit still for a minute!
We recommend starting small with lots of positive reinforcement. Reward even the smallest ‘stay’ position and work your way up to stepping back with your phone in your hand.
You can also use a toy as a reward!
Teach your dog that in order to get the toy, they must SIT or WAIT! Practice this several times: sit, toy, sit, toy. Gradually increase the length of the sit, then reward with the toy.
Once your dog can sit and stay, politely waiting for their toy or treat reward, for 5 seconds, add the camera. Make sure to be fun, upbeat and positive.
When you are done taking photos (quickly, of course), say ‘FREE’ and praise your dog for a job well done.
When your dog is REALLY good at this, you’ll even be able to use the toy to get their attention. This is how you will get those adorable dog expressions!
Choose the Right Mode for Dog Portraits
We recommend portrait mode for the best dog photos.
This mode on most modern phones will identify your subject while blurring the background, giving your images a professional finished look.
If you don’t have portrait mode, play with ‘flower’ or ‘macro’ mode and see what you can come up with!
We also love to use wide-angle photos to capture the scenery and tell a story.
Don’t be afraid to stray from the auto button, especially once you’ve got your head wrapped around how to use light when taking photos of your dog.
How to Get Your Dog to Pose
There is almost nothing worse than taking a beautiful, well lit portrait of your dog to see that their body language is well, stressed.
Pinned ears, lip licking, stiffness, hunched back or shoulders, and tucked tails are signs that your dog is not wanting its photo taken.
If you want your dog to perk their ears and look adorable in photos, follow these simple steps:
Don’t overwhelm your dog! Asking for a photo when they are already stressed is a recipe for disaster
Find a low-distraction area to work in
Be gentle with pressure. Don’t scold, physically handle or get too excited around dogs that are nervous about having their photo taken.
Remember that a little patience goes a long way
Make kissing and squeaking sounds, or use a toy
Say your dog’s favorite words, such as “treat” to get their attention (and be ready to click!)
Use high-value treats and reward often. Make this a fun experience and part of your routine!
Catch them in action, instead of asking them for a pose
How to Edit your Dog Photos
One of the biggest ways to improve your dog phone photos is to edit them!
I highly recommend the Adobe Lightroom mobile app.
You can use this app to adjust everything from the basics to individual colors, and you can even remove distracting objects from your photos!
This app does have a learning curve but it’s incredibly functional, fully featured and free of junk and ads, too.
Presets (in Lightroom) can help you apply a cohesive look to every image that you take, too. This will make your IG Feed look amazing!
BEFORE:
AFTER:
Dog Iphone-ography Summary
If you follow this formula you will notice an immediate improvement in your dog photos!
Lighting – Pose – Editing – Patience
Want more phone photography tips for your dog? Here is another great article we found:
Great Dane temperature and weather requirements are not that much different than those of other breeds.
What is the ideal temperature for a Great Dane? This is a question that many people have, as this breed of dog is known to be susceptible to extreme temperatures.
Let’s discuss what factors you need to consider when determining the ideal temperature for your Great Dane and provide some tips on how to keep them comfortable.
GREAT DANE TEMPERATURE AND WEATHER REQUIREMENTS
Great Danes are large dog breeds that do NOT do wonderful in hot weather and they also do not do wonderful in cold weather.
BUT… DON’T WORRY!
That doesn’t mean that if you are a dog owner of a Great Dane that you have to panic!
Large dogs can adjust to a hot summer day or a cold climate with just a few tweaks.
HOW DO LARGE DOGS HANDLE COLD WEATHER?
There are different types of cold weather and each type can have an effect on your large dog.
Dogs that are short haired like Great Danes will feel the cold much quicker than dogs with a longer coat. Since they have short coats and a single coat with no layer of thick fur, they might need a more insulating layer of warm clothes while playing outdoors in order to regulate body temperature.
Great Dane temperature tolerance can even vary from dog to dog!
DOG COATS FOR COLD WEATHER
The first thing you need to do is make sure that your Great Dane has a good quality Dog Coat or Dog Jacket that will protect itself from the elements.
There are many different types of coats and jackets on the market, but you’ll want to make sure that you choose one that is specifically designed for Great Danes or large dogs.
You’ll also want to make sure that the coat or jacket is waterproof and has a warm lining. This will help to keep the cold air out and body temperature up.
We love this Carharrt Jacket (can be purchased on Amazon) which suits both small dogs and giant breeds since it comes in many sizes.
KEEPING PAW PADS SAFE FROM ICE AND NEGATIVE TEMPERATURES
Great Danes do not always need to wear ‘dog shoes’ while they are outside in the snow.
If you have an active dog, they most likely have developed calluses on their paw pads from a young age.
However, the bottoms of dogs feet can get cold quickly when playing in cold weather, ice, snow etc. So, dog owners want to monitor their dog closely and watch to make sure that their feet are not getting too cold.
There are a few things you can do to help protect your dog’s feet from the cold:
Use paw balm or Vaseline on their paw pads before going outside. This will create a barrier between their skin and the elements.
Put dog shoes on their feet. This is especially helpful for senior dogs or dogs that don’t have calluses on their paw pads.
Wipe their feet off with a towel when they come back inside to remove any salt, snow, or ice that might be stuck to their little fur.
Invest in Pawz Dog booties. These booties resemble ‘balloons’ that are slip-proof and actually stay on your dogs feet. Best of all, they actually fit onto Great Danes paws.
Lastly, we love to see dog owners using Mushers Secret for their Gentle Giant. Mushers Secret is a petroleum jelly type of paw protection agent for both cold weather and hot weather. Many dog owners swear by this product and we can state that it really does help with health problems associated with cold contact.
USING SCARVES OR ‘SNOODS’ ON GREAT DANES NECKS IN COLD WEATHER
Not all dogs will tolerate a scarf or ‘snood’, but most dogs do love them.
A ‘snood’ is a type of scarf made for a dog.
KEEPING A GREAT DANE WARM IN THE RAIN
Some dogs like the rain and some dogs do not like the rain. But, most Great Dane owners report that their Great Dane will play in the rain with proper rain gear.
Make sure your dog has the right equipment and protection to keep safe and warm and they might really love to take a quick dip in a rain shower.
RAIN JACKETS FOR LARGER BREEDS
One rain jacket that we know works at keeping cool water off of your Great Dane is the Derby Original.
This jacket will keep your dog warm and dry and also comes in all sizes suitable for Great Danes.
It is affordable as well!
Best of all, we use this rain jacket in the Spring but also in the winter months on a brisk and even snowy day.
Lastly, this can be used as an outer coat with something lighter underneath for dogs at an increased risk of colder temperature.
MY GREAT DANE HATES TO BE COLD
If your Great Dane despises the cold weather, that is okay.
In extreme cases some dogs will spend several hours outside playing in the snow!
However, on the other hand, you might have a dog owner report that their dog shows signs of freezing after just a minute or two.
You know your dog best. Always monitor for your dog’s normal temperature.
HEATED PAD FOR A DOG WHO HATES TO BE COLD
If you have a dog who despises the cold weather, consider getting them a heated pad to relax on.
Dogs love to snuggle up on something warm. Beware though- they might argue with your other dogs for this spot!
HOW DO GREAT DANES HANDLE HOT WEATHER?
Great Danes are large dogs who get hot very quickly in the summer heat.
You should never keep your Great Dane outside in direct sun exposure or any hot environment for any extended period of time as it can create health conditions and heat stroke.
MY GREAT DANE DOES NOT TOLERATE HOT WEATHER
Most Great Danes struggle to tolerate warm weather for an extended period of time.
It is important to provide regular exercise for your dog, but should be given at appropriate times of days when the weather is not extreme.
COOLING MAT FOR A DOG WHO GETS VERY HOT
If you notice your dog or Great Dane constantly panting or overheating, you can invest in a cooling mat.
We have noticed that Great Danes typically love to relax on these and a dog’s temperatures will quickly lower when relaxing on the mat after playing outside in warm weather.
Your dog will be grateful for the break from the summer weather.
DOG SWIMMING POOL THAT FITS GREAT DANES
Even if your dog does not love to actually swim, it might like to dip its feet in the cool water of a swimming pool.
If your dog’s temperature is too high, it is also nice to have a little pool like this one filled up to splash them off and keep them cool.
IS IT OKAY TO LEAVE MY DOG IN THE CAR?
It is absolutely never okay to leave your dog in a hot car.
Your dog’s temperature can increase very fast in a hot vehicle, causing major health issues.
Even if you are just running inside for a moment in the hot summer months, do not leave your dog in the car.
Ask a family member to stay in the car with your dog instead.
HOW CAN I KNOW IF MY GREAT DANE HAS A TEMPERATURE?
If you have a Great Dane, you should be familiar with taking their temperature.
Knowing your Great Dane’s temperature could save you a medical emergency in the future.
RECTAL THERMOMETER
Using a rectal thermometer is one of the easiest ways (for you!) to take the temperature of your dog.
Just remember to lube up the thermometer with some Jelly before you insert it- this will make it much more comfortable for your dog.
The rectal thermometer will give you an accurate reading of your dog and it’s temperature.
USING DIGITAL THERMOMETERS
If your Great Dane does not tolerate a rectal thermometer, you can use a digital thermometer on it.
To use a digital thermometer, you can scan your Great Dane’s outer ear.
EAR THERMOMETER FOR A GREAT DANE
If you prefer to check the temperature of your dog with their ear canal, you will need an ear thermometer.
Using the thermometer, take your dog’s ears and place the thermometer inside the horizontal ear canal.
Keep the thermometer inside your dog’s ears until you get a reading of temperature.
GLASS THERMOMETER FOR A DOG
Some Great Dane parents opt to use a glass thermometer as it is mercury free.
You can use this thermometer multiple ways. Just gently insert in your Great Dane’s ear or rectum.
NORMAL TEMPERATURE FOR A GREAT DANE
A normal temperature for a Great Dane is between 101 and 102.
However, keep in mind that each dog is different and you should always consult a licensed veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your dog.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Yes, Great Danes need accommodations during extreme temperature days, but really it is not much different than most dogs. Be mindful of Great Dane heating and cooling.
Yes, you have some dogs that are built for the snow or built for the desert, but on average most dogs need to be cared for during a long hour at the dog park or playing in sub zero weather.
If you have a Great Dane, take care in extreme weather and your pup will thank you.
It is that time of year again when some pet parents get anxious for the upcoming holiday in anticipation for their dog’s becoming anxious.
The 4th of July is a time for celebration, but it can also be dangerous for dogs. Fireworks and loud noises can scare them and cause them to run away. Here are four tips to keep your dog safe on the 4th of July.
EXERCISE BEFORE THE NOISES BEGIN
A tired dog is usually a happy one. Once the noise begins is WAY too late to tire out an anxious pup. By that time they are already on high alert. A long morning walk or run before the party starts will help to use up some of that energy and hopefully make them sleepy when night falls.
TRY SOME NATURAL REMEDIES
There are many natural remedies that can help to ease your dog’s anxiety. CBD oil is one option that has been shown to be helpful for many dogs. There are also various calming supplements available at your local pet store. Ask a staff member for recommendations based on your dog’s weight and age.
HAVE A SAFE SPACE FOR YOUR DOG
It is important to have a safe space set up for your dog in case the noise gets too overwhelming. This could be a bedroom or bathroom where they
Make sure your chosen safe space is the same space that they are used to, as switching things up can be confusing when they are already anxious. Create a comfortable spot for your dog to relax in with some of their favorite toys and blankets. This will help them feel calm and safe.
KEEP YOUR DOG’S COLLAR ON THEM INDOORS
Keep an ID tag on your dog, even indoors. In case they do get scared and run off, an ID tag will help ensure that they’re returned to you safely.
Fourth of July is the number one day/night that dog’s go missing in America.
Even though it is usually recommended to take off your dog’s collar while they are indoors, this is not the night to do so.
Keeping an ID tag on them is an extra layer of security.
KNOW YOUR DOG’S ANXIETY BEFOREHAND
Be aware of your dog’s anxiety levels. If you know that your dog is particularly anxious or scared of loud noises, take extra precautions to keep them calm and relaxed on the Fourth of July.
CBD is a great anti-anxiety tool to keep on hand. Check out our favorite here.
The price of the breed can vary depending on a number of factors. Where you live, the breeder you choose, the food you feed, and many other factors play into the average cost of a Great Dane over the course of these hugs dog’s lives.
In this blog post, we will break down the cost of owning a Great Dane so that you know what to expect and do not get blindsided with their yearly cost and lifetime cost.
How Much Do Great Danes Cost? Can I Afford a Great Dane?
Great Danes are among the largest dog breeds in the world, and their impressive size comes with a corresponding price tag. A Great Dane puppy can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000, and the cost of feeding and caring for a Great Dane can be significant.
Great Danes are huge dogs, and they require a lot of food and exercise. They also tend to have health problems related to their size, so veterinary bills can be expensive.
As a result, Great Dane ownership is not for everyone. Before you commit to buying a Great Dane, be sure to do your research and make sure you can afford the up-front cost and ongoing expenses.
Let’s dive in to some of the factors to consider with Great Dane price.
The cost of actually purchasing a Great Dane puppy varies TREMENDOUSLY.
Some Great Dane breeders sell puppies for $300-$500, and some sell for up to $5000.
Just know, the cost of buying a Great Dane is USUALLY a red flag. If the price of your Great Dane is being estimated at just a few hundred dollars for ‘purebred’ Great Danes from a breeder: Red Flag. Those Great Dane puppies are definitely not health tested and genetically sound.
Likewise, if you are speaking with a breeder who wants to sell you a Great Dane for upward of $4000-$5000, they are most likely scamming you.
The average price range you should expect to pay from reputable breeders to become a Great Dane owner is about $2000. By doing your research into a quality breeder, you will ensure that you are looking at quality dogs.
A word about getting a “show quality dog”
We hear many people state that ‘they don’t care if their dog is a show dog’ or ‘they don’t want to make their dog go to shows’. That is COMPLETELY fine, and you can make your decision as it is your dog.
However, I think there is a misconception that show dogs are ‘different’ or ‘snobby breeders’ create show dogs. A show breeder will put hours and hours of time into your litter, complete all of the ethical health tests for the bitch and sire, and ensure that you are receiving a wonderful dog- no matter if you choose to show him or not. Do not automatically negate the option of pursing a dog from a show breeder just because you do not want to take your dog into the show ring. A show breeder typically has had professional training with the breed and produces breed standard dogs.
MANY scam breeders use the words ‘AKC Registered’ to try and sell you on a dog that might otherwise not be healthy.
Ultimately, the bar is set VERY low for a breeder to register their litter with the American Kennel Club. The American Kennel Club requires NOT health testing. In other words, you COULD be buying from a backyard breeder with an AKC paper to prove… well, nothing.
So, if you’re looking for a quality dog with minimal health issues or health conditions, you’ll want to find a reputable breeder who can provide you with a purebred Great Dane that comes from genetic lines that have been FULLY health tested.
And yes, be prepared to pay a higher, but fair price for one of these dogs.
Pet Insurance for your Great Dane Puppy
The very first thing a new dog owner should consider is pet insurance.
Every experienced dog owner knows that veterinary expenses can add up VERY quickly- especially with Great Danes.
Vet visits usually average about $200 for standard care / puppy vet visits and vaccines / or routine check-ups. With additional treatments like stool samples, bloodwork, or tests for complications the price for Great Dane health care can increase tremendously.
Medical procedures such as spay / neuter can cost anywhere from $400 – $2000 depending on the licensed veterinarian that conducts the procedure.
Emergency vet visits are much more expensive, costing an unpredictable amount of money. Emergency health care is something that many owners don’t plan for- broken limbs, torn muscles, bloat, or random need for stitches, etc. Emergency health care can quickly add up to tens of thousands of dollars for a giant dog with a larger health problem who needs to spend one or more nights in the emergency vet.
Pet insurance is one way for a dog parent to provide quality health care for their large dog without completely draining their savings and monthly income.
In my opinion, if you are the owner of a large dog, it is almost an essential purchase.
Adoption Fees for Large Breeds
When it comes to adopting large breed dogs, many people wrongly assume that they need to pay large adoption fees.
However, the truth is that puppy mill puppies are typically the most expensive.
In contrast, average-quality large breed dogs can often be adopted for a very reasonable fee.
While these animals may not have perfect markings or the best bloodlines, they can still make excellent pets and will provide plenty of love and companionship. The downside of adopting a Great Dane from a rescue is that you are unable to trace its genetics, and therefore the health of your Great Dane in the long term is pretty unpredictable.
Buying Great Danes from Pet Stores
Additionally, please beware that buying a Great Dane from a pet store absolutely should not be an option. Pet store puppies are fueled by puppy mills who outsource their dogs to these pet shops in order to benefit financially and stuff their pockets with income. It is tempting not to want to ‘save’ pet store puppies, but you have to remember the breeding stock of adult dog that remains back at the puppy mill- a problem that you are paying to continue by purchasing Great Dane from a shop.
Rescuing a Great Dane Average Price
The average price of most gentle giants from adoption is about $400, which is significantly less than purchasing a Great Dane from a breeder. So, if you’re looking for a puppy but don’t want to break the bank, consider adopting a larger dog from your local shelter or rescue organization instead of buying one from a puppy mill. After all, every dog deserves a loving home, no matter what its size or pedigree!
How Much Does Great Dane Grooming Cost?
The average cost of grooming your Great Dane is relatively minimal, considering a few factors.
Do You Want to Use a Dog Groomer?
If you want or plan to use a dog groomer with your Great Dane, the cost of grooming will increase tremendously. Due to the size of Great Danes, most groomers charge an extra $20 – $40 for the added time it takes to complete the grooming process.
At-Home Grooming
If you are comfortable grooming your dog at home, the cost of doing so will be very minimal. Great Danes have short coats that do not require a lot of special care. A simple brushing like the Sleek-Ez will be enough to brush them at home.
Many owners forget that there are fees associated with bringing home a new dog. One of those costs associated with owning a Great Dane is the cost of licensing your Great Dane with your city or town.
The cost of licensing a Great Dane typically ranges from $15 – $30 per year, depending on where you live.
However, some states offer discounts for spayed or neutered dogs, so be sure to ask about that when you license your dog with the city.
How Much Does It Cost to Microchip Your Great Dane?
A microchip is a device that is implanted under the skin of your dog that contains information about you and your dog.
The cost of microchipping typically ranges from $30 – $50, depending on where you have it done. The purpose of a microchip is so that if your dog ever gets lost, the animal shelter or veterinarian can scan the microchip and get in touch with you.
We highly recommend that all dog owners have their dogs microchipped, as it could potentially save your dog’s life one day.
Seek veterinary advice on getting your dog microchipped, as you never know when the unfortunate event of losing track of your dog could happen, and a microchip is one method of keeping them safe and being returned to you.
This is one category you do not want to try and save money on!
Pet Care and Dog Walkers for a Giant Breed Dog
Caring for a Great Dane from a puppy to an adult dog comes with ‘odds and end’ fees such as a dog walker or pet sitter. The average cost of a dog walker is anywhere from $10-$20 / walk which usually consists of 30 minutes to 1 hour of walk or play time.
For pet sitting, the average cost is $20-$40 / day which can include feeding, walking and playing. Usually, pet sitters will charge more to stay at your house rather than their own house. Also, pet sitters will charge additional fees for staying the night.
These services are important to have in place when you first get your dog as they need socialization and exercise just like any other puppy. As a rule of thumb, if your puppy is 8 weeks old, (2 months), they should not be asked to go more than ~2 hours without a potty break, and so forth.
Do Pet Owners ALWAYS Need Pet Care?
But as they grow into adults, these services are not required but may be something you want to consider to keep them socialized and exercised especially if you are at work all day. Typically, pet owners prioritize dog walking regardless of if they have a puppy or senior dog, as it benefits their Great Dane no matter what the age.
Some countries even have laws against keeping your dog in a crate or alone for longer than about 8 hours per day.
Great Dane Prices for Treats and Bones
Great Dane expenses are typically more than other dogs. The one category that Great Dane owners really do not have to pay more for is treats.
Great Dane Treats
Great Danes can usually eat the same treats that other dogs eat, no matter what their size is. That is because even though they are large dogs, you don’t want them to eat large treats as their weight is extremely important.
Interested in making your own homemade treats? Coopers Treats offers kits to make your own baked treats and pupcicles.
It is totally manageable to motivate a large dog with little training treats, the same as you would a medium sized dog.
Some of our favorite treats are linked below, and run anywhere from $10-$20 per bag, depending on the quality of treats or ingredients that you’d like to purchase.
As for giving your dog a chew or a bone, unfortunately they do get more expensive the larger you want them to be.
The key is finding a chew or a bone that lasts your Great Dane a long time, while also at an affordable price.
Farm Hounds Sun Dried Hide
Our favorite are from Farm Hounds, as they are SUN DRIED hide (NOT) to be confused with standard Rawhide. These bones are chemical free AND glue free, allowing for a safe experience. Best of all, they typically last my Great Danes over a month of chewing- off and on as I do not let them chew all of the time.
Here is the link. By using this link, you will receive $20 off:
Another good option for bones are bully sticks. bully sticks come in all different sizes, but the larger the size, the more expensive they become.
They are a good alternative to rawhide as they do not splinter and are easily digestible.
They are a pretty pricey option, as they last quite a long time and are safe. We like this Bully Bone Holder set as I do regularly fear that the dogs will choke on the last inch or two of the Bully Bone.
Disclaimer Against Rawhide
Rawhide is very dangerous for any dog, including a Great Dane.
While it is cheaper to give your dog a rawhide bone, we recommend against it as there have been too many cases of dogs choking or getting sick from the chemicals used to treat rawhide.
Rawhide is also sealed with glue, which can get caught up in their stomachs and cause a blockage. There have been many reports of dogs getting extremely sick and even dying due to rawhide.
Do not try to save money by giving your dogs rawhide.
A Great Dane Safe Crate
We are huge advocates for safe and ethical crate training.
Crate training is not cruel, and in fact, it can be very beneficial for both you and your Great Dane.
A safe crate will ensure that your dog has a place to go when they need some time to themselves or when you are away from home.
The best way to find a safe crate is to look for one that is made from metal or heavy-duty plastic.
You need to avoid a crate where your pup cannot lay down AND stand up completely. A Giant crate is a must-investment for every new giant dog owner as you can start it small for puppyhood and make it larger as they grow.
Some pet parents find that one method to give big dog plenty of exercise and socialization is daycare.
Dogs are most happy when they can run, play, and socialize with other large dogs, and most daycares have plenty of space for this type of activity.
We do not, however, recommend daycare facilities with high dog to human ratio, that keep dogs in kennels for most of the day, and those that you do not completely (and I mean completely) trust. Most franchise dog daycares would fit under the previous category- and we recommend being VERY careful sending your dogs to these places.
Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout
Many in-home daycare programs are a great way to socialize your pup, IF you know/trust them personally and are aware of the techniques that they believe in for training a Great Dane and behavior management.
You can NEVER be too careful with who you leave your dog with!
The costs of a full day of daycare can range anywhere from about $50-100 for a giant dog. Pricy right?
And regardless of what type of breed your dog happens to be, most daycare facilities cater to all kinds of dogs big and small but DO NOT cater to unspayed or unneutered dogs.
So if you are on the ‘wait to spay/neuter’ train, doggy daycare might not end up being the place for you.
Read more about the pros and cons of spaying your Great Dane prematurely (before 24 months) here:
Can early spay or neuter hurt your dog? Check out our blog here.
The Expenses of Feeding Great Danes
Anyone who has ever owned a Great Dane knows that these dogs appetites can range tremendously.
In fact, it is not uncommon for a full-grown Dane to eat more than a pound of food per day if raw fed and over 5 cups of food on kibble. Alternatively, some report that their Great Dane is finicky and picky with its food- not eating much above an average dog.
No matter what, feeding a Dane can be an expensive proposition.
Not only do they require more food than most other breeds, but they also benefit from higher quality food.
While cheaper brands of dog food may be fine for smaller breeds, they simply don’t provide the level of nutrition that Danes need. For owners who want to give their dog the best possible diet, it is often necessary to spend more on premium brands of dog food.
Of course, the expenses associated with feeding a Great Dane are just a small part of the overall cost of ownership, but one of the big ones.
We have several resources regarding our favorite foods for Great Danes here on this website.
If you are raw feeding your Great Dane, you can expect to spend anywhere from $150-$300 per month, and if you are feeding kibble you can anticipate about $100/month.
Genetic and Common Health Concerns that Add Up in Great Danes
Danes are big dogs, and unfortunately, that comes with some big health concerns which, in turn, results in some big expenses.
Joint Disease
Hip dysplasia, for example, is a condition that affects the hip joints and can cause pain and lameness. It’s estimated that up to 20% of Danes will develop hip dysplasia at some point in their lives.
Great Danes are also susceptible to arthritis, which can lead to stiffness and difficulty moving around. Arthritis is a disease that affects the joints and can be very painful.
Other Diseases
Other health problems that Danes are prone to include bloat, cardiomyopathy, epilepsy, and cancer.
While there is no guarantee that your Dane will never experience any of these health problems, you can take steps to reduce the risk.
For example, regular exercise and a healthy diet can help reduce the chances of your dog developing arthritis or other joint problems.
Additionally, many of these diseases or conditions (hip dysplasia, heart disease, bloat) are highly genetic, so looking into a high quality breeder who OFA Health Tests their dogs is one way to help prevent it from happening in your own Great dane.
Costs
Both hip dysplasia and arthritis can be expensive to treat, with the average cost of hip dysplasia surgery running around $3,000.
Bloat surgery in a Great Dane can cost up to $5000, whereas if you are planning to do the Gastropexy surgery, you should plan on about$2000.
Cancer treatment can be even more expensive, with the average cost of chemotherapy running around $15,000. (Insurance people- make sure to get insurance!)
Of course, these are just averages and the actual costs will vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual dog.
These are just a few examples of the potential costs you may face if your Dane develops a health problem.
Collars, Leashes, and Necessary Supplies
There are some items that are necessary for just about every dog breed. Some supplies you can find for a variety of price and that depends on the material, quality and brand that you are looking for.
Let’s look at a few items you will need, no matter what.
Long Leash
We believe that if you are raising a Great Dane puppy you will need a Long Leash. The long leash is a crucial part of teaching a puppy what a leash is, how to come when called, and introducing them to basic leash skills. The long leash is an important tool for socialization.
You can find a long leash made of different materials such as rope, leather or nylon and they come in a variety of lengths.
The price for a long leash ranges from $15-$50 depending on the length, material, and brand.
Here is our favorite and very affordable long leash:
A staple in my own Great Danes list of necessary items is an e collar.
E collar training is a humane, ethical and very appropriate way of communicating with your dog. The e collar allows you to have a conversation with your dog about their choices and behaviors in a way that is clear, consistent, and fair. You should NOT use a ‘shock’ collar or begin e collar training your Great Dane until you have taught them the basic skills.
Need help with modern e collar training? Check out our guide.
E collars come in a variety of sizes, styles, and brands. Prices range from $30-$200 depending on the features you are looking for, however we ONLY recommend the e collars within the upper range, which is about $200. The reason we do not recommend the cheaper e collars found on Amazon is that they are ‘shock’ devices, and the higher technology ones are actually made with stim units- VERY different!
Here is our favorite which can be purchased with free shipping in our shop:
Regular Collar
Your dog will obviously need a standard collar. A regular collar is a must for every dog for dog walking and obedience training. You will use this to put your dog’s tags on, and it is also a good backup in case your dog ever gets out of the house.
You can find collars made out of nylon, leather, or other materials. They come in a variety of colors and materials.
When its all said and done, there are some things that you’re simply going to WANT to buy for your Great Dane.
Some of the ‘fun’ expenses include clothing / winter jackets (most dogs do not NEED these items, but they can be quite fun), scarves / snoods, Embark DNA kit (It can be very fun to check for relatives as well as genetic conditions for safety), extra treats etc, and toys.
Here are some of our favorite items as well as their associated costs:
Embark can be a REALLY fun thing to do for/with your dog. Embark DNA kit will test for over 185 different dog breeds, tell you your pup’s ancestry, and provide information about any genetic health conditions that may be passed down.
The kit itself costs $129 and that includes the health portion AND the breed factor which tells you exactly the genetics of your pups breed.
Even if you already know that your dog is a Great Dane, it’s really fun to see if they have any nearby relatives.
Extra Treats, Feeders, Puzzles, Etc
It’s hard to imagine that you watch your Great Dane eat as much food as they do, and then they can consume MORE food.
But, extra treats, feeders and food puzzles can be a pretty fun thing to shop for.
Once you get started working with your pup or dog on their training, you will soon find it extremely fun to motivate them with fun treats.
There are also an abundance of fun treat dispensers like Toppls’, Kongs, etc, that make it very engaging for your dog to eat its meal.
We called toys a ‘fun’ and ‘optional’ purchase, but really every Great Dane SHOULD have at least a few toys.
Having a few items to call their own will minimize destructive chewing and help with boredom.
Some of our favorite toys for Great Danes are below.
Prices for these items range from $12-$40. There are also subscriptions, like our favorite from Super Chewer, where you can get a box of chew proof toys delivered monthly for a very fair price.
A dog’s life is not complete without a little bit of fun!
Bark Box offers Super Chewer monthly themed boxes delivered to your door with adorable toys and best of all- they are made for SUPER CHEWERS! Click here to check them out.
Snuggle Buddies
Snuggle Buddies are an option that many pet parents opt for when they bring their puppy home.
These are essentially stuffed animals that have been designed to have a ‘heartbeat’ like their mother.
The idea behind it is that the puppy will feel more comforted and secure if they have something that feels like home.
Snuggle Buddies cost around $30. You can find them here.
In conclusion, the Great Dane cost can vary by thousands if not tens of thousands of dollars. The most predicting factor that varies is medical expenses, followed probably by food.
We hope that this article has helped give you some clarity into what goes into the cost of a Great Dane as well as some helpful tips on how to cut down costs.
So, if you’ve wondered how much does a Great Dane cost- the answer is- well, priceless.
The truth is, a Great Dane is worth every penny (and then some). They are amazing, gentle giants that will fill your life with love and laughter.
Do you like modern positive+balanced off-leash dog training, science-based information, life with Danes, educated ownership and chatting with other like-minded people?
If you are looking for a new dog bed then you came to the right place for a completely non-biased, comprehensive and detailed Big Barker orthopedic dog bed review.
Do you have a big dog? You may have heard of an orthopedic dog bed company called Big Barker dog beds. Keep reading our orthopedic dog bed reviews to find out.
As pet parents, you know that finding a good bed for your big dog can be tough. Maybe you’re interested in trying out a Big Barker, but aren’t sure if you should spend the money.
Not all beds are created equal – some are too small, and others just don’t offer the support your furry friend needs. That’s where Big Barker comes in. We’re here to provide you with a non-biased and comprehensive review of their dog beds which are made for giant breed dogs.
Keep reading to learn more about why these beds are so popular, and find out if one is right for your big dogs! Let’s jump into the Big Barker dog bed review.
Our Big Barker Dog Bed Review Is Specific to Giant Breed Dogs
We are targeting this Big Barker dog bed review to big dogs or large dogs who need specific prevention in their lives to avoid joint pain or other health issues as they age.
For large dog owners, you will be especially interested to keep reading this dog bed review as you know that dogs sleep is essential for their overall health. Additionally, finding quality dog beds to support their weight and joints is very difficult.
Smaller Dogs and The Big Barker Dog Bed
A quick note about small dogs:
If you have a smaller dog, especially one with joint problems, this review can still apply to you, as the Big Barker Dog Bed does come in a smaller size called the Junior Barker dog bed. Your teeny dog could benefit from you reading this Big Barker review all the same. The Big Barker Junior dog bed could be a great fit for you.
However, for small dog owners, it can be easier to find a normal dog bed that is suitable for their weight and size and does not flatten under their smaller weight. However, the big barker junior is still one of our favorite beds.
That is why we have targeted this Big Barker review more so to the dog owners of large and giant breed dogs like Great Danes.
Big Barker Foam vs. Memory Foam
When looking to make a purchase like an expensive dog bed, you have to examine if the company offers high quality foam. This is important because your dog’s joints should never hit the ground while they are sleeping as it can cause joint pain and other issues down the line like hip dysplasia.
First up: the Foam Fight:
We took a look at the Big Barker American foam and cross reviewed it to some other versions of foam inside of dog beds being sold online.
Let’s jump in!
Is Polyfil Good For Large Dogs?
Every dog owner has probably seen or felt a brand new bed that they thought was a quality bed, only to realize that their large dogs instantly crush it to the floor, their feet / elbows / joints sink right to the bottom when laying on it, or it seems to ‘crumble’ or ‘ball’ after just a few months.
This is typically because the bed is made from a material called Polyfil, which sort of resembles a cotton ball pillow.
Should Giant Breed Dogs Sleep on a Crib Mattress?
Well, according to a Tactilus study (Tactilus is a machine that checks how much pressure is on something when you step on it or lay on it), the answer is no. Although not typically used to measure a dog on a bed, in this study, it was used for multiple different beds, including a Big Barker.
During a Tactilus Pressure Mapping study, red spots appear the highest when there are extreme pressure spots. Orange means there are less pressure spots, and yellow is even less. You get the point.
In order for our large dogs to have less joint pain and a good night’s rest, we should desire for them to have little to no pressure when laying on the best dog bed.
As you can see, a crib mattress, polyfill bed, and memory foam bed all signaled extreme joint pressure for large dog’s joints.
What really got my interest is when the dog laid on a Big Barker on the pressure mapper, there was NO red- indicating that the Big Barker did not allow ANY pressure from the dog to touch the pressure sensor. The dog’s weight was held up entirely by the bed.
Chinese Foam and the ‘Orthopedic Bed’ Scam
Pet parents need to be more vigilant now than ever. Unfortunately, the word ‘orthopedic’ bed is being tossed around in marketing scams.
The word ‘orthopedic beds’ is not a protected word, which means that companies can use it to describe their dog beds, even if their beds are made of memory foam, polyfil, or other materials that provide absolutely no support to keep their dogs youthful.
Did you know that most ‘orthopedic beds’ are actually sourced with Chinese foam because it’s easier and cheaper for companies to make the bed?
Check out this video- and be vigilant in protecting your dogs from a bed from pet stores or Amazon that claim to be an ‘orthopedic bed’ but can actually HARM them with toxins and lack of support foam.
https://youtu.be/NZKQLiHs-ME
What’s Inside of the Big Barker Dog Bed?
One of the first things you will notice when trying out a Big Barker compared to other dog beds is the foam used inside the bed.
Big Barker uses American made foam that is 7″ thick.
2″ of comfort foam on the top and 2″ of comfort foam on the bottom of the orthopedic bed helps your dog feel comfortable and sink into the bed in a ‘softer’ and more relaxing way.
But, the middle layer between the comfort foam is a 3″ layer of support foam inside beakers beds. This support foam keeps your giant dog’s heavy body off of the ground, because it supports the weight of up to 300 lbs.
Note in this video, this large dog is not sinking to the ground- elbows are off the floor and the bed stood nearly straight up as he lays down:
That means that the weight of not one Great Dane, but two can lay on the Big Barker before the dog bed flattens at all.
How Do We Know if a Bed Is an Orthopedic Bed?
Well, after trying several normal dog beds that claimed to be ‘high quality memory foam’ or have a ‘supportive mattress’ for large dogs like a Great Dane, we realized that the only way to write a dog bed review was based in science.
We started to look around for Orthopedic dog beds that had conducted actual studies for big dogs, older dogs / senior dogs, dogs with hip dysplasia / arthritis, or other general joint issues.
I mean, that IS what ‘orthopedic’ implies, right?
That is when we came across the clinical study that was conducted by Big Barker dog beds.
The Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed Clinical Study
The clinical study of the Big Barker bed showed (with evidence) that their orthopedic dog bed improved the quality of life, decreased stiffness in big dogs, reduced pain in big dogs, reduced stiffness in big dogs, improved the gait of big dogs and older dogs, and overall improved the quality of life.
Did You know Your Dog’s Bed Can Impact Them?
Up until this point, many people had no idea that their dog’s bed could actually help their giant dog live a longer life, walk around better, run and play with their big dog buddies and overall have better mobility and less vet bills.
Here is an image of two Great Dane dogs laying on one of the Giant Big Barker beds. These two dogs are about 100 lb. so although they are not huge dogs, but they seem to still have room to lounge.
The Different Styles of Big Barker Dog Beds
The Big Barker Beds come in three specific styles: sleek, sofa, and headrest. That does not include the SUV Edition of the Big Barker, which is used for vehicle travel.
The Sleek Big Barker Beds
The sleek Big Barker bed is exactly what the name implies. The sleek dog bed is just one straight piece of Big Barker foam, with no specific ‘pillow’ or place for your dog to rest its head.
I find the Sleek bed to be a great choice for a living space, family room, or if your dog likes to really stretch out.
Here are a few photos of the Sleek orthopedic dog bed:
The Sofa orthopedic dog bed definitely seems like a fan favorite by pet parents and dogs.
The Sofa Big Barker bed is the same 7″ American foam as the Sleek, but this time with a piece of therapeutic mattress foam lining three sides of the bed, making it a ‘sofa’ instead of a ‘bed’. They also now offer the big barker crate pad.
Is Your Giant Dog a Snuggle Pup? They Will Probably Love the Sofa Bed
Since most dogs love to be ‘snuggled up’, it makes sense that alot of dogs love the Sofa Big Barker dog bed as the sofa bolsters sort of snuggle them.
Ease of Washing: The Sofa Big Barker has bolsters that surround 3 sides of the bed- however the bolsters are NOT attached to the actual dog beds. Therefore, whenever you want to change out the washable cover, you need to remove the foam bolsters, and put them back in.
Waterproof Liner Non-Compatible: The waterproof liner made for Big Barker dog beds does NOT cover the sofa bolsters. Instead, you will just be getting a sleek waterproof liner and putting it UNDER your sofa bolsters, leaving the actual sofa bolsters at risk for water / liquid stains or spills.
The Headrest Big Barker dog beds are by far my favorite of all the Big Barker dog beds.
The Headrest Big Barker bed offers the benefit of it having a bolster / headrest, with the ease of being able to clean and wash it very easily, unlike other bolster beds I have seen in other pet beds.
The SUV Big Barker is really a great investment for anybody who takes their dog in their car often. The SUV Big Barker comes in 3 sizes, Medium, Large and XL, and it is best to measure before you purchase.
Instead of being 7″, the SUV Big Barker is 3″ with ‘wings’ that protect your dog from hitting the sides of your vehicle.
The SUV Bed is NOT a Safety Replacement
By no means is the SUV Big Barker a replacement for a seatbelt, and Big Barker does NOT state so. However it is a great travel bed option.
The Foam of the SUV Big Barker Bed
As shown below, the SUV Big Barker comes with two layers of foam, making it good competition for their other standard orthopedic dog beds, especially since your dog will only be using this bed while they are in the car.
For a great and full review of the SUV Big Barker, you may be interested in reading this SUV Dog Bed Review:
Big Barker Dog Beds Fit Into Your Home / Lifestyle
The nice part about the Big Barker dog bed color options is that no matter what color your dog is, you can most likely choose a bed to match them.
Also, if you want the bed to match your house, the neutral and lifestyle friendly colors will easily fit into most designs so that your dog bed doesn’t have to stick out like a sore thumb.
Is the Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed Washable?
It is absolutely crucial that dog beds are washable.
Dogs are not the cleanest creatures, and no matter how often you bathe them, they will still track in dirt, leaves, grass, and yes- sometimes even mud.
The good news is that all Big Barker dog beds are compatible with a machine washable cover AND a waterproof liner.
You can simply take off the outer cover (it has a zipper that you zip up to get the bed into the cover) and throw it in the wash in warm water. Even the zippers are very easy to use.
The washable cover IS safe to go into the drier, but it does say to tumble dry on low.
Do Big Barker Beds Have Waterproof Liners?
The Big Barker bed does not come with a waterproof cover, but it is available for additional purchase for each bed.
If your dog is older and prone to incontinence, if you have a young dog / puppy who is very active and messy, or if your dog eats any form of pet food or treats on its bed, it is pretty recommended that you get a waterproof cover for your bed.
Heres a quick video demonstration of the liner being used:
Is a Big Barker Bed Worth It?
If you have a big, large or giant breed dog, in our opinion- yes, the Big Barker orthopedic dog bed is worth the price.
For dog breeds anywhere in size from Golden Retrievers to Great Danes, Big Barker offers numerous beds that are suitable for your dog.
Clinically Proven is Always Worth It
Not only that, being clinically proven as a bed that will help your dog with mobility, joint issues, stiffness and pain, it is something that you cannot look past.
My only regret is not trying the Big Barker for my dog sooner, as it is a bed that I know she will use for many years to come.
Do you have a Big Barker bed? Join our Facebook community and let us know which bed is your favorite.
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!
@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.
@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!
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!
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!
