Tag: Puppies

Dogs Scared of Vet? Here’s How to Help Them Overcome Their Fear
Dogs scared of vet? You’re not alone.

Vet visits are stressful, loud, sometimes painful and often overwhelming for our furry friends.

The good news is, there are things you can do to help your dog feel more comfortable at the vet.

Here are a few tips for pet owners who have anxious dogs in the Veterinary office.

ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR DOGS FEAR IS NORMAL

Vet visits are not fun for any dog, and most dogs have stress hormones that are released at the vet.

Your dog’s vet visit is full of loud noises, so many dogs or other animals, a busy waiting area, a cold exam table, a veterinary staff that might feel like a threat to your dog.

Your dog’s fear is NOT irrational.

When you take your dog to the vet, acknowledge that your dog’s behavior is ‘normal’.

However, even though the anxious dog behavior is normal, most vets and pet parents want to work with their pet to help them overcome their anxiety and fear and help them create a positive association with the vet and vet office.

REMAIN CALM AND TRY GIVE POSITIVE FEELINGS

When pet owners are taking their dog to the vet’s office, they should make their best efforts to create happy visits with calm energy.

Dog behavior is highly indicative of their owner’s energy, so as much as possible keep positive and comfortable/calm.

Going to the vet is not a time to play or have a party, but it should not be a time of stress and anxiety for either you or your dog.

USE ANTI ANXIETY MEDICATIONS

If your dog has severe anxiety, your veterinarian can prescribe medication to help take the edge off.

There are also many natural supplements that can be used for dogs who have mild to moderate anxiety.

These can often be found at your local pet store or online.

Some of these products have calming pheromones that can help soothe anxious dogs.

Other products contain ingredients like chamomile, L-theanine, and tryptophan, which all have calming effects on dogs.

A product called Solliquin is a popular choice for helping with vet office anxiety in dogs because it contains both pheromones and tryptophan.

SPEAK WITH YOUR VETERINARIAN ABOUT HOW TO REDUCE STRESS

Your vet will be able to work with you on what processes you can do prior to vet visits to help your dog’s behavior.

If your dog is afraid of other dogs, for example, your vet should provide you with a waiting room separate from the other dogs.

If your dog hates strangers, perhaps your waiting room can be separated from other people.

Most veterinary offices are equipped to accommodate for each individual dog and their behavior. It is up to the dog owners to advocate for their dogs and speak to the vet staff about what their dog needs to help their fear at the vet.

IF YOU ARE GOING TO A NEW VET, BE TRANSPARENT

Going to a new vet’s office is a scary transition for any dog, and sometimes even owner.

If you are going to a new vet, be sure to speak with the new vet about any positive experiences you had with your last vet that you may want to duplicate with this new vet.

Likewise, speak with the new vet’s office about your dog’s anxiety and what body language they can look for to prevent any undesirable or aggressive behaviors in the veterinary clinic.

If your dog is on medication for their anxiety, be sure to bring a list of those medications and the dosage to the new vet’s office.

This will help the new vet determine if they want to continue with the same treatment plan or change it up based on their own observations.

HAVE A FEAR FREE VET VISIT PLAN

Working with your veterinarian, you can create a fear free visit plan for your dog. This may include things such as:
1. Pre-visit planning and discussion with your veterinarian
2. Arriving at the vet office during off peak hours
3. Check in via phone or online to avoid the waiting room
4. Asking the vet staff to wear scrubs instead of lab coats
5. Using a towel or sheet to cover the exam table
These are just a few ideas, and you can work with your veterinarian to come up with a plan that will work best for your dog.

The most important thing is that you advocate for your dog and their needs, so that they can have a positive experience at the vet.

Dogs are scared of going to the vet because of all the new sights, smells, and sounds. With a vet that is willing to work with anything that your dog hates, your dog should be able to cope with the behavior.

LOOK FOR A FEAR FREE VET

Some veterinarians offer ‘Fear Free’ services for their entire practice.

For example, if your dog is not comfortable wearing a surgery suit after their spay, your vet might offer a ‘wrap and snuggle’ service instead.

This means that your dog will be wrapped in a soft fleece blanket during their surgery, which will provide both warmth and comfort.

After their surgery, they will be given extra time to wake up in a quiet room before being released to you.

There are many different ways that veterinarians can make the veterinary experience more Fear Free for your dog, so it is definitely worth looking into if you have a particularly anxious dog.

Dogs should not be scared of going to the vet, and with these tips, you can help your dog overcome their fear of the vet.

LOOK INTO HOME VISITS OR MOBILE VETS

Some dog owners find that using a mobile veterinary clinic comes with fewer stressors for their dogs because it eliminates many of the unknowns associated with going to a new place.

A mobile vet will come right to your door, which can help reduce your dog’s anxiety about going somewhere new.

If the dog anxiety is so bad that they are having major behavior issues at the vet, house calls can be a life saver.

During an at-home vet visit, the vet will make your home the exam room!

Typically, pets are MUCH more comfortable in the comfort of their home, so even if a dog hates going to the vet, they are comfortable if a vet comes to them!

WITH ANY AGGRESSIVE DOG, MUZZLE TRAIN

Muzzle training is a good idea for all dogs, in the event that any dog has to wear a muzzle.

However, with an aggressive dog, it is even more important that they are muzzle trained for their vet visit.

If your dog hates going to the vet so much that they have demonstrated dog aggression, using a muzzle is NOTHING to be ashamed of.

Shop this soft mesh muzzle on Amazon:

Get your dog comfortable wearing a muzzle and create positive associations with lots of treats and enthusiasm.

As your dog begins to see that the muzzle will not hurt them, you can begin to use the muzzle at the vet.

If your dog bites, has aggressive tendencies to other pets, humans or other dogs, shows any form of dog aggression behavior, etc, then they should be muzzled for the safety of the vet clinic and their workers.

A dog bite that happens at the vet is typically a behavior that stems from fear or pain: NOT aggression.

However, even if a dog bites out of fear or pain at the vet, it can still cause tremendous damage and pain to whomever they have bitten, so it is always best to prevent the behavior before it happens.

Shop this basket muzzle on Amazon:

Advocating for your dog sometimes means that you are protecting them with the use of ethical tools.

Stand up for them BEFORE the nasty bite happens.

Your dog deserves it!

YOUR DOG’S BEHAVIOR COULD BE ASSOCIATED WITH PAIN

Many times if your dog is acting extremely nervous and demonstrating negative associations with the vet, it is because they are in pain.

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Going to the vet can be a painful experience if your dog is injured or sick.

If this is the case, your dog might need medication to help them cope with the pain of going to the vet.

There are many different types of pain medication that your vet can prescribe for your dog, so be sure to ask about it if you think that might be the case.

Your dog’s behavior could also be associated with a previous traumatic event that happened at the vet.

For example, if your dog was once given a shot at the vet that caused them a lot of pain, they may now associate vet visits with getting shots and being in pain.

In this case, you will want to work with your veterinarian to make sure that your dog’s experience at the vet is as positive as possible so that they can overcome their previous trauma.

There are many different ways to help a dog who is scared of the vet, and it is important to work with your veterinarian to find what will work best for your dog. With a little bit of effort, you can help your dog overcome their fear of the vet and have a positive experience at their next visit.

What has worked for you in the past? Let us know in the comments below!

READ MORE:
Using CBD for My Dog’s Pain
Supplements for Great Danes
Fish Oil for Great Danes
What is Bloat?
Can You Prevent Bloat?
Stomach Tacking: Pros and Cons
Bloat and Gut Health
July 5, 2022
11 Ways to Calm Dog Anxiety in Car Rides
Owners of nervous dogs are always looking for ways to calm dog anxiety in car rides.

Many dogs experience anxiety in the car. Even though a car ride may seem harmless to a human who is used to car travel, car anxiety is relatively normal for dogs.

If your dog is anxious in the car, there are a few things you can do to ease their anxiety and make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
1. Get them used to the car gradually
2. Prevent motion sickness
3. Practice calm behavior
4. Take car rides to fun places
5. Take short trips
6. Get a car seatbelt or harness
7. Crate train
8. Use a car hammock
9. Get a Big Barker SUV bed
10. Bring along a high value treat or favorite toy
11. USE CBD or other calming supplements
If your dog isn’t used to car rides, some of these ideas may help make your dog’s car ride more of a positive association than a negative association.

GET THEM USED TO THE CAR GRADUALLY

If your dog experiences anxiety in the car, it’s important to get them used to the car gradually.

Puppy Fear Stages

This will help them feel more comfortable and relaxed in the car, rather than feeling anxious and scared.

There are a few ways you can do this, but one of the most important parts is to gradually introduce your dog to the car.

If your dog is anxious in the car, gradually introduce them to the car will help them to feel more comfortable and relaxed in the car, rather than feeling anxious and scared.

One way to gradually introduce your dog to the car is to take them on short trips around the block.

This will help them get used to the motion of the car and being in a confined space.

If your dog isn’t used to car rides, getting them in the car quickly can worsen their anxiety. It’s best to get them used to the car gradually so that they have a positive association with it.

You can start by leaving the door open and letting them sniff around and explore the car on their own. Once they seem comfortable , you can try getting in the car with them and giving them treats.

If they seem scared or anxious, it’s best to take things slowly and not force them into the car.

PREVENT MOTION SICKNESS

Motion sickness is a common problem for dogs that experience anxiety in the car.

There are a few things you can do to help prevent your dog from getting car sick:
1. Feed them a light meal before driving
2. Make sure they have plenty of fresh air
3. Use car sickness medication
4. Provide lots of cool water. Your dog’s water should be accessible often.
5. Keep your car cool
If your dog starts feeling sick, lip licking, or showing mild discomfort, pull the car over in a safe area and let your dog take a break. Getting out of the car often will help with motion sickness, which is often a major trigger of dog’s anxiety.

CAR FANS THAT MANY DOGS WILL LOVE FOR CAR RIDES

If you ride in the car often, you will want to invest in a car fan, which helps dogs get fresh air on their face. Having cool air can help with motion sickness and help them not get car sick during car travel.

PRACTICE CALM BEHAVIOR

Your dog is looking to you for how they should act and feel while riding in the car.

Overcoming dog car anxiety is much in part related to how you, the owner, act while you are taking car trips.

Are you blasting heavy metal music, or are you beginning the car ride with soothing music to set the tone correct and help your anxious dog feel better?

Is your energy level stressful, are you amped up on the phone during car rides?

Your dog is picking up on any extreme anxiety that you have. Many pet owners might not even realize that they use car rides as a time to decompress.

If you have your dog in the car with you, be careful to keep the car a safe and happy place to help your dog associate the car rides with something happy.

A dog’s sense of intuition is much stronger than pet owners realize. Also, a dog’s level of how in tune they are with their pet owners is much deeper than they realize. If you like to calm your dog, work to calm yourself.

TAKE CAR RIDES TO FUN PLACES

A happy German Shepherd mix breed dog is smiling with his tounge hanging out and his eyes closed as he sticks his head out the family car window while drving down the road.

Dog (labrador retriever) looking out of a car window on a rainy day.

Most of the time when a dog takes car rides, they are traveling to the vet’s office.

Dogs usually do not love going to the vet, thus they get car related anxiety.

Switch things up as often as you can. Take your dog on car rides to fun places too!
1. Take a car ride to the park
2. Take a car ride to dog parks, just make sure the dog park is safe and calm
3. Take a car ride to have a visit with other dogs
4. Take a car ride to a pet friendly store and get your dog a special treat
As much as you can, take your dog to fun places. Most dogs will begin to associate the car with exciting outings, and the car anxiety will eventually dissipate.

TAKE SHORT TRIPS

Car anxiety is usually not ‘random’.

Some dogs do not like to travel for extended periods of time, but it doesn’t mean they will always hate long car rides.

For starters, try to calm your dog in the car by taking them on short car rides.

Begin to take your dog on a car ride that is as short as just down the driveway and back up.

Get ready with lots of treats!

As your dog begins to not get as anxious on the short car rides, you can start to increase the amount of time that you are gone.

If your car ride is going to be longer, a few hours, make sure that you are taking the time to

INVEST IN A CAR HARNESS OR SEATBELT

A car harness or car seatbelt is an excellent way to help a dog with car anxiety.

The harness will help keep your dog safe and secure while in the car.

A seatbelt will also help to keep your dog from roaming around the car, which can often make car sickness worse.

There are many different types of car harnesses and seatbelts on the market, so take some time to find one that will work best for your dog and your vehicle. Here are some recommendations of products that can help calm your dog:

CAR SEATBELT:

This car seatbelt will help your dog feel more secure while in the car and help to keep them from pacing around or getting car sick.

CAR HARNESS:

This is a great harness that will help to keep your dog calm and secure while in the car. The harness is made with breathable fabric to help keep your dog cool and comfortable.

CRATE TRAINING

Crate training can help with car anxiety, car sickness, and just dog anxiety in general.

If possible, use a crate in the car for your dog and it could solve a ton of your problems with dog anxiety in the car.

CRASH PROOF CRATES

The Variocage Crash Proof Car Crate is an investment, but it is certain to help any level of dog anxiety in the car.

USE A CAR HAMMOCK

Some dogs who have major car anxiety love to be in something called a car hammock.

This Kong Travel Car Hammock will help your dog have it’s own safe area to either sit or lay.

In the hammock, you can tie their seatbelt through to add extra safety and security for your dog.

BRING ALONG A HIGH VALUE TREATS OR YOUR DOG’S FAVORITE TOY

Travel anxiety can happen to the best of any dogs.

But, with some behavior modification and planning on the owners part, dogs can begin to enjoy the car.

TREATS FOR A HAPPY DOG

You should plan on always having treats in the car during any travel so that you can toss treats to your dog as you go.

Best Toys for Great Danes
New Puppy Checklist
Day Pouch Treat Bag Review
Best Training Treats for Dogs and Puppies

Dogs love the Dr. Harveys treats, they are minimal ingredients which are great for dog’s motion sickness in the car, and they can help turn travel anxiety into making dogs love the car.

Code HELLODANES10 for 10% off all Dr. Harveys products

BRINGING ALONG A TOY FOR YOUR DOG

If your dog has a toy that they love, be sure to bring it to help their travel anxiety.

If you are looking for a toy that can help your dog with travel anxiety, look into the Snuggle Puppies.

Snuggle Puppies help by mimicking a heartbeat sound and feeling, which can help your dog feel physically secure, like they have a friend with them in the car.

The Snuggle Puppy might help your dog’s car anxiety.

GET A BIG BARKER SUV BED

Your dog’s car anxiety probably has somewhat to do with the movement, sudden turns, and feeling like they are lacking control.

The Big Barker SUV bed helps your dog feel like they aren’t going to roll around in the back.

With comfort and security, your dog car anxiety will diminish.

The Big Barker SUV bed is sturdy enough, but also relaxing and comfortable.

Purchase here.

KEEP THE DOG IN THE BACK OF THE CAR SAFELY

When your dog starts climbing up in to the front of the car, their car anxiety is going to get worse.

In order for your dog to feel safe and have less car anxiety, they need to have a space that they feel secure.

So, it is important to have a barrier between the driver and the dog.

This one is affordable and strong, and will provide your dog with a barrier to keep them in the back seat, which will ultimately contribute to a decrease in the car anxiety.

USE CBD OR OTHER CALMING SUPPLEMENTS

Using anti anxiety medication can take a toll on your dog and leave you with a tired dog.

It CAN be the right choice to use prescription medications, but sometimes you may just want to use dog CBD.

Using CBD for My Dog’s Pain
Can You Use Human Medicine for Dogs?
7 Uses of CBD
How Can CBD Be Used?
Adding CBD Into Your Dog’s Diet

Using CBD for your dogs is a great way to help them stay grounded and calm in a moving vehicle.

When you give your dog their CBD, if you also play calming music or classical music, it can help give your dog additional relaxation.

IN CONCLUSION

So, although your dog may be afraid of the car right now, with some counter conditioning and desensitization, you can help your dog feel better about car rides.

If you have a dog with car anxiety, there are many things that you can do to help ease their anxiety.

First, try to find the root of the problem. If they are anxious about being in the car, start by making car rides fun and positive experiences.

Bring along their favorite toy or some high value treats to help them associate the car with something positive.

You can also try using a dog crate or hammock in the car to give them their own space.

And finally, consider using CBD or other calming supplements to help ease their anxiety.

With some patience and effort, you can help your dog overcome their car anxiety and enjoy car rides again.

READ MORE:
Training Mistakes
Best Training Treats for Great Dane Puppies
Why is Leash Training so Hard?
5 Leash Training Tips
Puppy Training: 5 Mistakes in Training
What is Balanced Training?
Respect Training Tips: How to Train Your Puppy Great Dane
Is My Great Dane Being Aggressive?
Canine Good Citizen Training for Great Danes
July 5, 2022
5 Big Dog Myths You Need to Know About
The large and giant breed dog communities are a literal stew of opinions, advice and ideas.

Heavy-handed dog training, resting after meals, and ‘Euro’ dogs are just some of the common big dog myths that I want to cover today!

Come sort through the stew with us!

You Must Rest Your Big Dog Before & After Meals

You’ve definitely heard this one.

“You MUST rest your dog before and after meals so they don’t bloat!”

You and your dog may be looking at a schedule like this:

AM Walk
Rest
Food
Rest
PM Walk
Rest
Food
Rest
Bed

That’s a lot of um…shall we say, sitting?

Bloat is a painful, dangerous, and DEADLY condition that plagues large and giant breed dogs. Great Danes tend to be the most susceptible! Bloat is scary, and ‘preventatives’ make us feel better about it.

Let’s bust this myth. Studies have found absolutely NO correlation between BLOAT and EXERCISE!

Not only that, but most dogs who bloat do so while resting and on an empty stomach.

Bloat incidence has increased by 1500% in the last 30+ years, despite this common ‘advice’ to rest dogs before and after meals.

It’s time to let go of this old, unsubstantiated old wives’ tale. Rest your dog if it makes you feel better, but don’t encourage your dog to spend its entire life sitting around. If your dog is going to bloat, it won’t matter if they are moving or being a couch potato.

Don’t freak out. There are other science-backed ways to reduce bloat risk.

Bloat and Gut Health: Does it go together?

Big Dogs Have a Short Lifespan

You’re walking down the street with your Great Dane by your side when you are stopped by somebody gushing over how beautiful your dog is.

(Because it’s true, your dog is gorgeous).

Then she says “I just could never own one. They don’t live long”.

STOP. IT.

We are so over this myth. Sure, large and giant breed dogs are plagued by a number of health problems that shorten their life span…but it doesn’t mean that all large and giant breed dogs will be dead by age 7.

A solid majority of these dogs come from breeders who are NOT actively seeking to better the breed.

Minimal health testing, questionable pedigrees, and profit-driven practices are literally ruining these dogs and their genetics for generations to come.

If you want a robust, long-lived large or giant breed dog, choose an ethical, reputable breeder who is beyond diligent with the pedigree and actively seeks to eliminate common ‘early death’ problems.

This includes heart failure, bloat, fearful temperaments, poor structure, cancer, and arthritis which all have a genetic link.

Everything ‘EURO’ Dogs

“He’s not overweight, he’s EURO”

Buckle up, this is a fun one!

Any dog being labeled as ‘EURO’ is a dog that is being labeled with an unregulated marketing term.

EURO does not necessarily mean ‘EUROPEAN’.

It’s important to note that actual well-bred European dogs are not, in fact, meant to be larger, stockier, or droopier than American dogs!

Each Country will have a written standard for its breed. When you compare the legitimate, real written standard for the breed from each individual Country, you will notice that the standards are nearly identical!

The ‘EURO’ term plagues Great Danes, Mastiff’s, Rottweilers, and Dobermans in particular.

EURO nearly always just means one thing: out of standard.

Droopy eyes, blocky heads, and stocky, oversized bodies are considered significant faults in the breed standard for Great Danes in both countries.

The appeal of a larger, beefier dog with an exotic title (‘Euro’) is popular and persistent, however.

It’s fine to wish for a slightly larger dog, but NEVER at the expense of the health, comfort, and robust and proven genetics of the breed.

Want to know more about the TRUTH behind ‘Euro’ dogs? Read HERE.

Learn more about what makes a breeder ‘bad’.

Giant Dogs need Heavy-Handed Training

Reality television has taught us that we need to ‘pSSHHhhTTT’, intimidate, pin down, and harshly correct dogs, especially when they are large or giant breeds like Great Dane or St. Bernard.

People believe that big dogs need bigger shock collars, bigger corrections, and more forceful training methods overall.

Big dogs CAN and WILL destroy your house and take you for a walk if you don’t train them. Small dogs can try, but they don’t have the mass to make it happen. That’s the only difference.

It’s NOT that big dogs are more stubborn or defiant! They are just…bigger.

Being bigger doesn’t justify the use of fear, pain, and harsh punitive training.

Training must start on day one. With large and giant breed dogs you definitely have to teach ‘off’, ‘heel’, ‘down’, and ‘come’. These things are easy to teach with positive reinforcement!

We recommend that owners consider taking a class with an AKC ‘Canine Good Citizen’ instructor to learn how to teach, guide (and yes, correct when appropriate) their large and giant breed dogs.

(Don’t be THIS dog owner!)

The reality here is that forceful, harsh training methods (including the incorrect use of E-Collars) can lead to fear, anxiety, and aggression.

Danes and other giant breed dogs are not dumb. They learn the same way that all other dogs do. Applying more ‘force’ just serves our egos, not the dog or the relationships we have with it.

This is one big dog myth we can put to rest, once and for all.

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

Adult Food Only, Never Puppy Food!

This common belief is rampant in the large and giant breed dog community.

For years, many giant breed dogs have been fed adult formula dry dog food from their first solid meal.

10+ years ago, this was acceptable and recommended because adult formulas were literally the only acceptable option for maintaining slow growth.

Thankfully, we have science, research, food trials, and updated large-breed puppy foods!

‘Adult food only’ is dated and dangerous advice for large and giant breed dogs. They should now be fed an appropriate, science-backed LARGE or GIANT breed PUPPY formula.

Make sure you choose a science-backed food brand. Boutique foods have not participated in the same level of diligent research and may not be correctly formulated for the growth of your large breed dog! For more information about choosing puppy food for your big dog, read here.

Knuckling, flat feet, low energy, HOD, or Panosteitis are just some of what you may experience if you choose the wrong food. Many large and giant breed dogs that are fed ‘adult food only’ will also struggle to develop lean, strong muscle and maintain an appropriate weight. Adult foods simply don’t have enough nutrition to support their growth.

We recommend:
- Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Puppy – any flavor!
- Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Large Breed puppy – TOP PICK, salmon-based
- Eukanuba Large Breed Puppy (Great for active and sporting dogs)
- Purina One Large Breed Puppy (Excellent budget option)
- Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Large Breed
- Royal Canin Giant Puppy Dry Dog food (to age 12 months) – TOP PICK, PREMIUM OPTION
- Royal Canin Giant Junior Dry Dog food (8-24 months)
- Purina Large Breed Puppy Chow
Check out THE GIANT DOG FOOD PROJECT to compare brands and values.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CHOOSING HEALTHY PET FOOD FOR YOUR BIG DOG

What other big dog myths can we bust for you?

Leave a comment below! We’d love to hear from you, or you can also join our helpful, friendly and open-minded community on Facebook.

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

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?

Join our growing Facebook group!

HELLO DANES ON FACEBOOK
June 20, 2022

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

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

HOW MUCH DOES A GREAT DANE EAT?

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

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

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

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

GREAT DANE FEEDING CHART

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

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

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

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

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

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

GREAT DANE FEEDING CHART: READ MORE HERE

ADULT FOOD

INTAKE (DAILY)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Obesity in Great Danes: Fat Danes Face Serious Health Risks

PUPPY FOOD

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

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

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

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

PUPPY VS. ADULT FOOD

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

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

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

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

CREATING A GOOD FEEDING SCHEDULE

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

Creating a Schedule When You Bring Your Puppy Home

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

Bloat: Learn More Here

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

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

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

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

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

OBESITY IN GREAT DANES

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

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

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

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

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

Arthritis in Great Danes

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

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

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

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

Is My Great Dane Too Skinny?

WHEN TO SWITCH FROM PUPPY FOOD TO ADULT FOOD

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

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

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

What forms of exercise are best for a Great Dane?

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

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

WHY WON’T MY GREAT DANE PUPPY EAT?

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

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

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

Picky Puppies

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

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

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

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

MY GREAT DANE IS ALWAYS STARVING

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

Healthy fats might consist of:

Fish oil and omegas
Coconut oil
Avocado
Eggs

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

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

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

GIVING SUPPLEMENTS TO A GREAT DANE

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

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

Depending on their age, different items are needed.

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

GREAT DANE PUPPIES AND SUPPLEMENTS

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

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

You can learn more about this condition here.

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

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

ADULT GREAT DANE SUPPLEMENTS

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

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

RED FLAGS FOR GREAT DANE DOG FOOD

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

Red flags when Great Dane feeding include:

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

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

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

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

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

How Much Do Great Danes Cost?

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

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

ADDING WET FOOD INTO A GREAT DANE DIET

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

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

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

RAW FOOD DIET FOR A GREAT DANE

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

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

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

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

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

CHOOSING TO FREE FEED YOUR GREAT DANE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

June 17, 2022

The Magnificent Harlequin Great Dane
The Harlequin Great Dane is not only one of the cutest dog’s in the world, it’s one of the largest too! Popular for being a Gentle Giant, the Harlequin will rock your world.

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

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

HARLEQUIN GREAT DANE BREED

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

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

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

WHAT IS A HARLEQUIN GREAT DANE?

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

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

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

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

OTHER GREAT DANE COAT COLORS

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

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

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

WHAT IS A ‘BREED STANDARD’ HARLEQUIN GREAT DANE?

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

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

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

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

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

HARLEQUIN GREAT DANES TEMPERAMENT

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

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

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

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

HARLEQUIN GREAT DANE PUPPIES

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

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

Things you will need for Harlequin puppies:

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

HOW TO FIND THE BEST CRATE FOR A GREAT DANE

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

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

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

HARLEQUIN GREAT DANES AND THEIR HEALTH ISSUES

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

JOINT ISSUES

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

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

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

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

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

HEART DISEASE

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

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

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

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

CANCER

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

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

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

BLOAT

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

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

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

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

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

WHAT IS A DOUBLE MERLE GREAT DANE?

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

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

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

Double Merle Great Danes

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

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

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

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

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

HOW MUCH DO HARLEQUIN DOGS COST?

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

HOW MUCH DO GREAT DANES COST?

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

The beautiful coat makes many people want them.

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

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

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

READ MORE:

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

IBUPROFEN POISONING IN DOGS: IS IBUPROFEN TOXIC TO DOGS?

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

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

WHAT IS IBUPROFEN?

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

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

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

WHAT IS IBUPROFEN TOXICITY?

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

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

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

THE SYMPTOMS OF IBUPROFEN POISONING

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

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

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

HOW WILL AN EMERGENCY VETERINARIAN DIAGNOSE IBUPROFEN POISONING?

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

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

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

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

INDUCED VOMITING WHEN DOG ATE IBUPROFEN

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

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

KIDNEY DAMAGE FROM IBUPROFEN POISONING

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

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

CAN DOGS TAKE HUMAN ANTIBIOTICS?
GREAT DANE DRY SKIN

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

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

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

STOMACH ISSUES WHEN DOG ATE IBUPROFEN

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

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

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

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

BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS FOR DOGS IBUPROFEN POISONING

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

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

SAFE MEDICATION FOR DOGS

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

Human medications are not always safe for our pets.

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

CBD for Dog’s Pain
7 Uses of CBD

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Large Clippers for Large Dogs Nails

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

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

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

Millers Forge Nail Trimmer for Great Danes

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

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

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

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

Safari Professional Nail Clipper for Great Dane’s nails

Next up is the highly rated Safari Professional nail clipper.

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

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

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

Boshel Safety Guard Nail Clippers

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

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

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

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

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

If you are looking for nail clippers that have

Gopets Nail Clippers

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

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

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

GoPets Dog Nail Trimmer

Epica Nail Trimmer for Great Dane Nails

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

These nail trimmers have sharp blades and are scissor clippers.

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

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

Casfuy Dog Nail Grinder

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

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

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

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

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

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

Standard Dremel Tool

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

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

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

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

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

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

First Aid for a Bleeding Dog’s Nails

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

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

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

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

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

Going to a Grooming Salon with Your Great Dane

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

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

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

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

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

Getting Started with Your Great Dane

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

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

Good luck!

READ MORE:

The 2 Sided Debate: Great Dane Ear Cropping

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

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

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

HOUSEBREAKING GREAT DANE PUPPIES: THE GREAT DANE POTTY TRAINING PROCESS

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

CRATE TRAINING YOUR GREAT DANE PUPPY

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

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

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

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

Shop the best crate for Great Danes on Chewys

USING AN XPEN TO CRATE TRAIN

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

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

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

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

Shop for this Xpen on Amazon.

THE BEST CRATE FOR A GREAT DANE PUPPY

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

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

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

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

The Best Crate for a Great Dane Puppy: Click Here

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Accidents happen all the time with puppies.

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

TIME OUTS FOR A PUPPY HAVING AN ACCIDENT INSIDE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

USING A BELL TO POTTY TRAIN MY GREAT DANE PUPPY

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

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

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

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

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

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

USING POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT WHEN POTTY TRAINING A GREAT DANE

Using positive reinforcement is crucial when potty training Great Danes.

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

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

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

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

USING TREATS WHEN POTTY TRAINING A GREAT DANE

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

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

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

Day Pouch Treat Bag Review

The Olly Backcountry treat pouch for Great Danes

The Olly smaller treat pouch

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

Our favorites are here:

Code HELLODANES10 for 10% off all Dr. Harveys products

USING BABY GATES WHILE POTTY TRAINING A GREAT DANE

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

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

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

You can find baby gates here, on Amazon.

KEEPING A SCHEDULE WHILE GREAT DANE POTTY TRAINING

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

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

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

Schedule for Bringing Home a Great Dane Puppy

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

POTTY TRAINING A GREAT DANE PUPPY WHEN YOU WORK

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

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

Great Dane pup, Maysie, standing

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

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

PROVIDING PLAY TIME AND ENRICHMENT FOR A GREAT DANE PUPPY

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

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

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

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

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

POTTY TRAINING A GREAT DANE PUPPY CAN BE EASY

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

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

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

June 15, 2022
Miniature Great Danes: Everything You Need to Know

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

Are Miniature Great Danes Real?

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

What Makes a Miniature Great Dane?

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

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

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

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

How Big are Mini-Great Danes?

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

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

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

Your miniature Great Dane will definitely still be giant size!

Do People Intentionally Breed Miniature Sized Great Danes?

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

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

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

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

Great Dane on White Background

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

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

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

Great Dane Temperament & Personality Traits

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

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

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

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

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

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

Health Issues with Giant Breed Dogs

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

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

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

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

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

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

My Great Dane is Too Small

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is the Life Expectancy of Great Danes?

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

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

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

This does not have to be the case.

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

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

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

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

Do Miniature Great Danes Require Exercise?

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

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

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

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

Photo credit to @lexi.aspen.rayna

Photo credit to @lexi.aspen.rayna

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

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

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

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

What Items do I Need for my Miniature Great Dane?

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

WHAT BED SHOULD I GET MY MINI DANE?

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

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

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

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

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

Big Barker Bed Review

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

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

HOW SHOULD I TRAIN MY MINIATURE GREAT DANE?

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

However, it’s never too late!

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

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

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

WHAT ARE THE BEST TREATS FOR GREAT DANES?

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

Treats for Great Danes

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

Here are our favorites.

Code HELLODANES10 for 10% off all Dr. Harveys products

WHAT CRATE SHOULD I USE FOR MY MINIATURE GREAT DANE?

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE:

What Does Euro Mean in Great Danes?

Great Dane Puppy Growth Chart

June 14, 2022
Why Does My Dog Sit on Me?: The Fascinating Science of Why Dogs Like to Cuddle
Dogs are known for being loyal and loving companions. They love to cuddle up with their owners, and many people have wondered why dogs like to sit on people so much. Is it a sign of dominance? A way to show affection?

Or is there something else going on here?

Scientists have been studying this question for years, and they have some answers. Keep reading to find out what science has to say about why dogs like to cuddle!

WHY DOES MY DOG SIT ON ME?

Dogs who sit on your lap might be trying to communicate with their dog parents.

Dog’s behavior is complex, and you may have noticed that your dog loves sitting on your lap.

Pet parents might be used to their own lap dogs, but someone new sees a large dog sitting on its owners lap and wonders why the heck would a dog like to sit on a lap!

Reasons dog’s might like sitting on your lap:
1. Dogs love to spend time with their owners
2. Dogs love physical contact
3. Many dogs find comfort and feel safe with their humans
4. Being able to have cuddle time helps dogs to feel safe
5. Your dog might have separation anxiety
6. Some aggressive behaviors like ‘guarding’ can make a dog feel like they need physical contact at all times
7. Lap sitting can be a way for your dog to get attention
8. Your dog might be bored
9. Your lap is just simply the most comfortable spot
While we might not ever know definitively why dogs like to sit on people, the most likely explanation is that they simply enjoy the companionship and physical contact. So if your dog likes to cuddle up with you, it’s probably because they love you!

Is My Dog Aggressive?
Why Does My Puppy Pee When It’s Excited?

DO DOGS SLEEP WITH THEIR FAVORITE PERSON?

Every dog is unique in how they build confidence and find comfort.

However, most of the time dogs will sleep with who the dog likes best and finds most soothing.

Dogs are pack animals and social animals. Not only that, they are social sleepers too. Dogs like to be around not only their dog peers while they sleep, but with their humans as well.

Since dogs, Great Danes included, are highly led by their noses, dogs may love to be in the room with those who smell ‘comforting’ to them. Scent dogs may sense your presence in the room while they sleep just from your smell.

Some dogs may like to sleep on the couch after a long day and that doesn’t mean they love you any less. If your dog is sleeping in other areas of the house you can try to put a blanket or a hoodie with them to leave them with your comforting scent.

WHY DOES MY DOG SIT ON ME AND NOT OTHER PEOPLE?

If your dog sits on your lap but not on other people’s laps that is perfectly normal.

Most owners have a familiar scent and comfortability to their dogs. Sitting on their lap is going to make most sense to their own pet.

Dogs may gravitate to just sit on your lap but they also might be friendly to sitting on other peoples laps too!

IS MY DOG HAVING ANXIETY?

Sometimes if your dog sits on your lap, he might be having separation anxiety.

Using CBD for Anxiety

There is body language you can look out for to determine if your dog is having anxiety.
1. If your dog sits on your lap when you are trying to get ready to leave the house this might be a sign of separation anxiety. Your dog may not want you to leave and sitting on your lap is their way of ‘guarding’ you and trying to keep you there with them.
2. Your dog is panting, licking its lips, or has its ears back while sitting on your lap
3. Your dog demonstrates behavior of tucking its tail or ‘flinches’ when someone tries to pet him
4. Your dog is trying to ‘hide’ in your lap
If your dog is having anxiety it is best to consult with a professional trainer or behaviorist to help work through some exercises to help ease.

IS MY DOG TRYING TO PROTECT ME?

Many owners think that their dogs may be trying to ‘protect’ them with behavior like trying to sit on their laps.

Unless your dog is a trained protection dog, any behavior of ‘protection’ in any breed, even Great Danes, is something you will want to take notice of and pay attention to.

Are Great Danes Good Protection Dogs?

When your dog feels nervous, you might confuse their actions for other behaviors that you infer to be strong / confident / protective.

For example, although there are many reasons why your dog might bark at a stranger, one of them is probably not that your pup is trying to stand up for you.

Better yet, your pooch is most likely trying to save himself, an implication of a fear behavior.

If your dog is trying to sit on your lap in any situation that might be causing them to feel uncomfortable, they are probably seeking affirmation from you through this behavior.

WHY DOES MY DOG FOLLOW ME EVERYWHERE I GO?

Your pup loves to be with you! Animals seek guidance from humans behavior.

When your dog is a puppy, start introducing them to spending some time alone.

If you are watching TV on the couch, ask your dog to sit on the floor for a while by itself. Refrain from touching your pooch for a few minutes. It is hard not to shower your pup with pets, but it is helpful for them in the long run.

Larger dogs especially are ‘velcrow’ dogs, and will need help learning how to be alone.

This will help them in their life with learning independence.

ARE BIG DOGS ‘LAP DOGS’?

Comparatively to other animals, large dogs tend to be big lap dogs. Huge dog breeds like Great Danes usually think they are the size of shih tzus or cats.

Smaller dog breeds, likewise, usually think they are the size of a big dog.

Your big dog will try to sit on your lap and get all the pets he can get. When big dogs sit on your lap, they think ‘if it fits, it sits’.

CAN CHILDREN SIT ON DOG’S LAPS?

Small children should never sit or lay on your pet.

Although big dogs are Gentle Giants, they have sensitive joints and bones and should never be ridden like horses.

When in pain, any pet can demonstrate aggressive behavior.

Not only should you train your dog how to interact with your kids, but you should train your kids what it means to interact with your pet in a healthy way.

How to Teach a Puppy to Socialize

SHOULD YOU LET YOUR DOG LAY ON TOP OF YOU?

Your dog has many reasons to love to lay on top of you.

Dogs are social animals and love being close to their pack.

When your dog is laying on top of you, he might be feeling:
1. Protective of you
2. Submissive to you
3. A need for physical affection
4. Comforted in the relationship
5. Nervous and in need of affirmation
All of these reasons are normal and healthy for your pup and you can be there through each feeling.

If you are able to tolerate the wrestling match of getting them off of you- it is perfectly safe for your dog to lay on top of you!

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

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Join our growing Facebook group!

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June 10, 2022