We found out a nasty but cool fact: Dirt is good for dogs! Dogs love to get dirty, but is it bad for them? Contrary to popular belief, letting your dog play in dirt may actually be good for their immune system! Learn more about the benefits of a dirty dog and why you shouldn’t worry about your Dane getting messy. Buckle up- we are about to discuss why dirt is good for dogs!
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Dogs Need to Get Dirty for a Healthy Immune System!
Think it’s bad for dogs to eat dirt? WRONG. In fact, it’s essential for their immune system! Find out how playing and getting dirty can help your pup stay healthy.
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Healthy Dogs – They Love to Eat Dirt!
Dogs love to eat dirt and mud, and for good reason! These activities are incredibly enriching for their health and provide opportunities for exercise that most dogs enjoy. Puppies love to play with, dig in and eat mud and dirt as well! Mud and dirt are full of unique smells and textures which keep your dog’s senses engaged. So go ahead and let them play in the dirt- it’s good for them!
Dogs love to dig. It’s in their nature. However, that doesn’t mean you have to just let them go wild and start tearing up your garden. There are a few things you can do to help prevent this behavior while still keeping your dog happy and healthy. Work on finding healthy way for your Great Danes to play in the mud. You may be hesitant at first, but keep in mind that dirt is good for dogs! Check out these tips for how to keep your dog entertained and safe when they’re outside!
Most of the Time, Dirt is Good for Dogs, but Can Dirt Be Bad?
Dogs should never eat or inhale too much mud as it can contain parasites and other things that may be dangerous to their health. There can also be parasites or bacteria in certain dirt or mud, so it’s crucial for pet parents to not let their dogs play in the wrong mud or dirt. Stagnant water, for example, is known to harbor bacteria. Allowing your dog to play in mud from stagnant water may end up in a tummy ache or even a parasite.
“Danes love to get dirty, but is it bad for them? Contrary to popular belief, letting your dog eat dirt may actually be good for their immune system! Give your Dane the opportunity to play in the mud and let them enjoy this natural source of enrichment today!“
Why Giving Your Dog Access to Dirt, Mud, and the Outdoors is So Important
However, access to free-play in dirt, mud and the outdoors has many benefits for dogs. Some of the reasons why dirt is good for dogs include reducing stress and anxiety, combating depression, reducing boredom, boosting the immune system, helping with digestion and cardiovascular health, reducing allergies, softening toenails, paw pads, skin and fur, improving balance and coordination and strengthening muscles. When you realize that dirt is good for dogs, you will actually improve not only your dog’s immune system, but provide them with more engagement in regards to sensory activities! Digging and playing in mud can help stimulate mental enrichment for dogs. There are so many ways that dirt is good for dogs! Supervision is necessary!
Dirt is Good for Dogs!
In conclusion, while it’s important to keep an eye on your pup and make sure they’re not eating too much dirt, playing in mud and getting outdoors has many benefits for their health. From reducing stress and anxiety to boosting the immune system, here are just a few reasons why dirt is good for dogs!
If you are considering adding a Great Dane puppy to your family, there are a few things you should know. Great Danes are gentle giants and make wonderful pets, but they do require a lot of exercise and room to run.
In this blog post, we will discuss the temperament of Great Dane puppies as well as what you can expect in terms of care. We will also provide tips on how to train and socialize your Great Dane Puppies and discuss just how big your puppy might get.
For a list of our favorite training treats for Great Dane Puppies, click here.
Bringing Home Great Dane Puppies
Congratulations on your new Great Dane puppy! Great Dane puppies make wonderful pets, but they also require special care and training. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you welcome your new pup into the family.
1. Great Dane Puppies Need the Right Food and Exercise
First, remember that your puppy is still growing and will need plenty of food and exercise. Great Dane puppies are notorious eaters, so be sure to provide a high-quality diet and plenty of fresh water.
Most dogs also need a lot of exercise for the first two years so prepare for daily walks or play sessions. However, it’s important not to overdo it – too much activity can damage growing joints and bones.
Great Dane puppies require special care for their joints: don’t let them jump too much off of high surfaces like the couch. Also, it’s crucial to make sure Great Dane puppies do not run or play on slippery surfaces.
2. Socialization for Great Dane Puppies
Second, socialization is key. From an early age, expose your Great Dane puppy to as many new people, animals, and experiences as possible.
This will help them grow into confident, well-rounded adults. Attend puppy classes, visit different public settings, and take your pup on fun outings. Taking Great Dane puppies to dog parks early on is not the only (or best) way to socialize them.
You want to teach your pup to be surrounded by chaos, but not apart of it. For this reason, we love to see pet parents taking their Great Dane puppies to places like parking lots where they can sit back and people watch.
3. How to Train Great Dane Puppies
Finally, training is essential for any dog, but especially for a large breed like the Great Dane puppy. Start with basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Manners are also important, so be sure to teach your puppy not to jump up on people or beg for food. With patience and consistency, you’ll have a well-behaved dog in no time.
Let’s dive in to some essential topics of what to expect with a Great Dane Puppy.
4. The First Week with Great Dane Puppies: Weekly Schedule
Bringing home a new puppy is always an exciting time, but it’s important to remember that puppies require a lot of care and attention. When you first bring your Great Dane puppy home, take some time to introduce them to their new surroundings. Show them where their bed is, where they can and can’t go in the house, and start to establish some basic rules.
It’s also important to begin socializing your puppy early on. Introduce them to other family members, including any pets you might have. The more exposure they have to different people and animals, the better.
Finally, one of the most important things you can do for your puppy is to develop a routine. Set regular mealtimes, potty breaks and playtimes, and stick to them as much as possible. This will help your puppy feel comfortable and secure in their new home.
Day 1: Day 1 with your new Great Dane puppy is sure to be full of surprises. For one thing, it is amazing how big they are! Great Danes are one of the largest breeds of dogs, and your puppy will likely weigh over 100 pounds when fully grown. He’ll also probably be very active, full of energy and ready to explore his new home. Be prepared for lots of chewing. Gentle giants love to chew on anything they can get their teeth on! – and provide plenty of chew toys to help redirect his chewing urges. You’ll also need to start socializing your puppy right away, introducing him to as many different people and animals as possible.
Day 2-4: On days 2-4 you will want to get your Great Dane puppy in to have a general check-up with their veterinarian. In order to get an appointment for your Great Dane puppy, you need to understand the expectations and find a reputable veterinarian. A great way to start is by asking around for referrals from dog-owners who have had great experiences with their own veterinarian. Once you have a list of potential vets, take the time to read online reviews. This will give you a better idea of what other pet-owners think of the vet and their staff. Once you have narrowed down your choices, call each vet to ask about their experience with Great Danes, but Great Dane puppies specifically. Find out what vaccination schedule they recommend and if they offer any discounts for new clients. Once you have found a vet that you are comfortable with, go ahead and schedule your puppy’s first appointment within the first 2-4 days of coming home.
Day 5-6:Pet Insurance is an absolute must for Great Dane puppies. As any dog owner knows, our furry friends come with a lot of responsibility- and a fair amount of expense. From food and toys to vaccinations and routine check-ups, there’s no shortage of ways to spend money on your pet. And for those who have chosen a Great Dane puppy, the costs can be even higher.
Great Danes Puppies are a popular breed, known for their large size and gentle nature. However, they are also prone to certain health problems, which can be expensive to treat. That’s why pet insurance is such an important consideration for anyone who is thinking of adding a Great Dane puppy to their family. By investing in a good policy, you can ensure that your dog will always have the care they need, no matter what.
Day 7: Congratulate yourself and your puppy on finishing your first 7 days home together. Getting a new puppy is often a lot of work. Your puppy is in a new environment, you have overcome the big day of bringing them to into your house, and you are on your way to providing them with a safe place to feel loved and welcomed. Have you fell in love with Great Dane puppies yet?
5. Training and Socialization: Basic Information for Great Dane Puppies
Even the most docile dog can benefit from training and socialization. The earlier these things are started, the better, as it will help your Great Dane puppy to grow into a well-adjusted adult.
Training helps your pup understand what the expectation is. It also provides them with essential obedience skills. Socialization, on the other hand, helps your Great Dane puppy to interact positively with other dogs and people. Be patient- Great Dane puppies take time to learn!
This is especially important for Great Dane puppies, as their size can sometimes be intimidating. By providing your pup with plenty of opportunities for positive experiences with other dogs and people, you can help them to develop into a confident and social adult.
While entering a new world, Great Danes need positive reinforcement in order to learn obedience commands and good behavior. With proper training, they are well-behaved dogs that are a joy to have around. Praise and treats are great ways to reward a Dane for good behavior, and will help them to understand what you expect from them. Be consistent with your commands, and remain patient while training your puppy.
6. Items to Buy for Great Dane Puppies
Plan ahead with your puppy to spend time on the leash, allow them time to play, and provide them with general obedience training. Prepare to invest in a dog trainer if this is your first Dane, as at times Great Danes do require much training.
Your pup will likely need a large crate to sleep in, and you will need to puppy proof your living area. It is also a good idea to create a routine that involves feeding time. You can utilize baby gates for eating time, or have them eat in their crate. Use lots of treats for them when they go potty and walk well on their leash! As you know, a Great Dane typically loves eating.
With time and patience, you will have a well-behaved pet that is a loyal companion.
7. The Best Dog Toys for Your Giant Breed Pup
As any Dane puppy owner’s knows, finding the right toy for your Great Dane can be a challenge. Not only do you want a toy that will keep your dog entertained, but you also want one that is safe and durable. If you’re in the market for a new toy for your Great Dane puppy, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, choose a toy that is the appropriate size for your Great Dane puppy. A toy that is too small can pose a choking hazard, while a toy that is too large can be difficult for your puppy to manipulate.
Second, consider the material of the toy. Some materials, such as latex, may not be safe for puppies to chew on. Finally, use a toy designed specifically for Great Dane puppies.
Here are some of our favorites for your Great Dane:
If you’re looking for a durable, tough, and long-lasting dog toy, Kong is a great option. Kongs are made of durable rubber that stand up to even the most powerful chewers. They’re also bouncy and fun for dogs to play with, making them a great option for interactive playtime. In addition, Kong dog toys are used as training tools because they are able to be filled with treats. This encourages Great Danes to keep playing with the toy even when there’s no one around to play with them. As a result, Kong toys can provide both mental and physical stimulation for your Great Dane Puppy.
Chew Proof:
For many dog owners, finding the right chew toy can be a real challenge – especially if you have a big dog with a hearty appetite. Great Danes are enthusiastic about chewing, and their powerful jaws can easily destroy most standard toys. Find a toy that is great for heavy chewers. There are a few things to look for in a good chew toy for Great Dane puppies. First, the toy should be made of durable materials that can withstand some serious chewing. Second, it should be large enough to keep your puppy occupied, but not so large that it becomes a choking hazard.
Snuggle Puppy:
If you’re looking for a toy that will make your Great Dane feel loved, a Snuggle Puppy might be just the thing. They are soft, cuddly toys that come with a “heartbeat” module that simulates the warmth and rhythmic breathing of a real dog. Great Danes are social creatures, and many owners find that their dog forms a strong bond with their Snuggle Puppy. The toy provides comfort and security, especially when your dog is left alone or in a new environment. Because they’re made from high-quality materials. These stuffed animals are built to last – which means you’ll get to enjoy watching your dog snuggle up to his new best friend for years to come.
Outward Hound Engagement Puzzles:
If you have a Great Dane puppy, you know that they are one of the most gentle giants around. However, despite their large size, they are often very loving and loyal companions. But because of their size, they can also be quite destructive if left unattended. That’s where Outward Hound engagement puzzles come in handy. These puzzles will keep your dog occupied and engaged. They help to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. One of the most popular options is the Outward Hound Fire Biterz squeaker toy, which is made from durable fire hose material and has a built-in squeaker to keep your dog entertained. Other great options include the Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Puzzle Plush Dog Toy.
8. Collars for Great Dane Puppies
Great Danes also require some special care, particularly when it comes to choosing a collar. Because of their large size, Great Danes can easily pull a standard-sized collar off, so it’s important to choose one that is properly sized and securely fastened. Additionally, because Great Danes have such long necks, a traditional one can often cut into their skin, causing irritation.
Some of our favorites for Great Danes and other Giant Breed Dogs are:
E-collars: E-collars are a great way to combat behavioral problems with your Great Dane in the long run. Be prepared to spend a lot of time training your Great Dane on basic skills prior to introducing them to their e-collar. We have an abundance of information on this training mechanism on our site for your Great Dane, when you are ready.
A martingale is one great option for Great Danes as it is adjustable and designed to prevent slipping.
Quick Release: Using a quick release like this one is essential. Your Great Dane can get caught up in another pet’s neck if you choose the wrong style, and a quick release helps by creating safety.
Note: never leave your dog’s collar on them when they are unattended or in the house or crate by themselves. When training or with an accompanied adult, they can be worn safely.
9. Water Bowls that you Need for Great Dane Puppies
Any dog owner knows that providing their pet with fresh water is essential to their health.
But for large breeds like Great Danes, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a water bowl.
Secondly, Great Danes need a lot of water, so choose a bowl that is large enough to accommodate their needs. And finally, remember to clean the bowl regularly to prevent the build-up of bacteria.
WATER BOWLS CAN CONTAIN BACTERIA
Here are a few ideas of the type of bowl you should use to feed and water your new pet. Remember: you chose the giant breed life!!
Prepare for a mess in your house! These spill proof mats are essential for collecting water, food and drool from your dane, especially if they are not eating and drinking in their crate.
Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl – Slow Feeder Dog Bowl: Slow feeders can help your Great Dane puppy eat it’s dog food nice and slow. Food should be eaten slowly. Incorporate training to feed them at a slow pace so that you can best prevent bloat.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your Great Dane stays healthy and hydrated.
9. Useful Items for Cleaning up after Great Dane Puppies
Hard Wood Floors require different cleaning supplies. Be sure to keep all food and urine off of your wood floors. Here is a great item to help.
Crates can get nasty fast. With a large breed puppy comes a lot of pee, poop and other messes. Training your puppy to potty outside will help. However, you are going to need to prepare some cleaning supplies to help keep the crate clean in the meantime. Here is a great one.
Waste bags: You chose a breed that eats a lot of dog food and produces a lot of pee and poop. Get the waste bags that are bulk produced– you will need them!
10. Genetic Predispositions to Prepare for with Great Danes:
Before you bring a Great Dane home, it’s important to be aware of the potential health problems that can afflict them.
BLOAT
One of the most common is gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), also known as bloat. This condition occurs when the stomach twists on itself, preventing food and gas from escaping. GDV can be fatal if not treated immediately, so it’s important to be aware of the signs, which include restlessness, drooling, and pacing.
Great Dane’s are prone to hip dysplasia and other joint diseases. It is crucial to protect their joints from an early age. Make sure their current food supports their growth and keep them off of hard surfaces in order to avoid joint diseases.
Some Great Dane puppies and adults are prone to cardiomyopathy, a type of heart disease.
WOBBLERS
Great Danes can be prone to Wobblers disease, which is a genetic and inherited disease that causes lameness and inability to walk. Speak with your breeder and discuss whether there are genes in the Great Dane’s lineage that may make you need to prepare for Wobblers.
Just like human babies, your Great Dane puppy needs to be potty trained. It’s important to start early, as puppies have very small bladders and need to go often. The best way to potty train a puppy is with positive reinforcement.
Whenever they go in the right spot, give them lots of praise and a treat. If they have an accident, just clean it up without making a fuss.
Baby Danes are also more likely to toilet in the same spot if it’s easy for them to get to.
Incorporate training daily to make sure their designated potty area is easily accessible and that there are no obstacles in their way.
If you have other dogs in your house, your new puppy may pick up on potty training quicker as Great Danes love to live a ‘pack life’. Additionally, it is possible that your breeder helped them with their potty training before you brought them home!
Puppies are growing at an accelerated rate and need different amounts of nutrients than adult. Their diet must contain the right balance of proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals to promote healthy development. Most importantly, it must be the correct ratio of calcium and phosphorus.
Many commercial, regular puppy kibble is not formulated to meet these nutritional needs. Not all brands are created equal.
For example, some brands use lower quality ingredients that might not be as easily digestible. Others add fillers or artificial ingredients that can cause digestive upset or other problems.
When choosing a kibble for your Great Dane pup, look for a high-quality product that uses quality ingredients. Avoid products with fillers or artificial ingredients, and opt for a formula that is easy to digest. You may also want to consult with your veterinarian to find the best food for your Great Dane puppy.
Regular Puppy Food
Regular puppy kibble is not suitable for growing large breeds. Large and giant breed puppies grow at an accelerated rate and need a different ratio of calcium to phosphorus. If the ratio is too high, it can cause joint problems later in life.
Additionally, large breeds need more calories than small breeds. Puppy kibble typically contains more calories than adult food. Find a food that’s specifically for large breeds.
There is a common debate nowadays on whether to feed ‘Adult’ or ‘Puppy’ kibble. The truth is, it does not matter which one you go with, as long as it is correctly formulated. Many Large Breed Puppy kibbles are correctly made for growth, as are large breed adult plans.
Adult Great Dane Large Breed Food
The best foods for Large Breeds are formulated specifically to meet their nutritional needs and maintain healthy growth. We recommend feeding a kibble that has meat or meal as the first ingredient, which can help reduce risk of bloat!
Dane puppies have special needs when it comes to their food. Some adult formulas will work, and some will not.
You can see the full list of foods we recommend for your pup. However if you notice any signs your pup isn’t thriving like loose stools or gas (which can both mean there might be an issue with digestion), consult your vet immediately!
Esther Buffered Esther C to Prevent HOD and Knuckling
Many people automatically assume that their dogs are healthy when in reality, they may be suffering from something like knuckling or HOD.
This is due to lack of vitamin C which can lead to other issues such as anxiety-inducing situations becoming more stressful and painful for the dog! If you want your pup’s quality life preserved then give them an Ester C supplement ASAP – we recommend starting with 1000mg daily intake before increasing amounts until desired result.
We have an additional blog post with more information about Ester C supplements here.
13. Tips for Successfully Adding a Great Dane Puppy to Your Family
As you can see, puppies are a lot of work but they are also incredibly rewarding pets. They need plenty of exercise and room to run, so make sure to play in a big yard or take your pup on long walks. In addition, be sure to start training and socializing your puppy as early as possible. This will help him grow into a well-adjusted adult dog. If you have any questions about caring for a Great Dane puppy, please feel free to contact us. We would be happy to help!
If you are looking into a shock collar for Great Dane training, you’ve come to the right place!
We offer modern dog training advice and can help you decide if using a shock collar on your Great Dane is going to be helpful for fixing behavioral issues.
We are here to give you ideas and resources for E-Collar training, products, positive training, and more!
Read on for more information about shock collar training and Great Danes!
SHOCK COLLAR TRAINING and GREAT DANES
Many people search for shock collar training resources when they are at their ‘wit’s end’ with their dog.
Aggression, lunging, barking, pulling, digging in the trash and general stubborn nonsense are common reasons that otherwise well-meaning dog owners seek to use a shock collar on their dog!
We understand your frustrations, we hear you, and we are here to HELP!
At Hello Danes, we believe that shock collars are so 2001, and that E-Collars are the new, more effective and humane way to train Great Danes.
A properly used E-Collar can give your dog off-leash freedom and so much more.
Shock collars (especially inexpensive ones from Amazon, etc.) provide a sharp, startling shock or aversive vibration sensation that is designed specifically to hurt and punish. With shock collars, the dog is the subject of the training and may not be aware of how to avoid being shocked.
E-Collars (in particular, the only brand we stand behind, E-Collar Technologies) provide a blunt tingling stimulation that is designed to be a positive, tactile communication. With proper E-Collar use, the dog is a participant in training and knows how to make choices that turn that stimulation on and off.
WE KNOW WHAT YOU ARE THINKING
You may be reading this and thinking ‘no way, lady. My dog is LARGE and in CHARGE and I need a way to get his attention. An E-Collar isn’t going to cut it’.
Look, we get it! Having an out-of-control giant breed Great Dane is embarrassing and can result in injury, lawsuits and more. Training your Great Dane is extremely important!
Now imagine for a moment that your currently bratty Great Dane could have amazing off-leash obedience and recall, polite manners, the ability to ‘settle’ indoors (even when guests are over), and confidence (not fear, anxiety or instability).
BELOW I’ve written two training examples, so you can learn about the difference between shock collar training and E-Collar training for your Great Dane!
SHOCK COLLAR RECALL
The dog runs off and doesn’t listen when off leash.
The shock collar is used to punish the dog for ignoring the recall command.
The handler may repeat the sharp static shock or vibration until the dog comes back, often with poor body language (ears pinned, hunched, low to the ground).
The dog learns that running from the owner is scary and may, through this process learn to stay closer because they fear what happens if they don’t.
Additionally, the dog may learn to associate the shock or vibrate with the environment, lowering their confidence and increased anxiety and aggression (BLOAT RISK).
The dog is taught that the stimulation from the E-Collar (up to 1/2 mile away) means to come back.
They are enthusiastic about it, not fearful or hurt by it, and associate the stimulation with good things.
The stimulation feels like an ant crawling around, and the dog quickly learns that they can turn it off by running back to the handler.
Just like leash pressure or teasing a dog with a treat until they sit!
The E-Collar becomes a true wireless leash!
The dog learns that staying close and listening means good things, treats, praise and freedom. If they go too far, the E-Collar reminds them to turn and run back! They quickly learn boundaries and gain freedom; in dedicated hands, most dogs can easily be off-leash within weeks.
This is all done, reliably, with a gentle muscle stimulation that most humans cannot even feel.
Because the dog associates the stimulation with good things and has full control over the stimulation, the dog is an enthusiastic and willing participant. Treats, praise and play are also part of a proper E-Collar training program. Dogs that have fun training learn faster and develop stronger obedience skills!
WHICH DOG WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE?
So if you ask us if you should use a shock collar for Great Dane training, our answer will always be NO. Shock collars cause unnecessary stress and anxiety that can increase bloat risk, reduce confidence and cause worsened training problems. It’s just not worth it.
But if you are interested in using an E-Collar for Great Dane training? Let’s chat!
A properly used E-Collar is less aversive, less harmful and more effective than a long leash, no-pull harness, squirt bottle, verbal correction or head harness!
With some fun, simple positive training your E-Collar becomes a ‘wireless leash’, allowing you to effectively communicate with your dog (even your large stubborn one!) up to 1/2 mile away.
IMAGINE YOUR DOG:
Having insane amounts of enriching off-leash freedom (which results in better physical and mental condition, less stress and lower anxiety. All things that may reduce overall bloat risk and improve behavior).
Loose leash walking with calm confidence.
Being free from leash reactivity, an unfortunate result of the natural restriction and tension of the leash, collar or harness.
Dropping calmly to a down-stay while other dogs, children and people walk by.
Redirecting immediately away from dangerous and annoying behaviors such as fence jumping, running into the street and stealing cooked chicken bones from the counter; then running back to you with enthusiasm!
Calmly sitting on a ‘place’ while you greet guests or unload groceries.
WHEN NOT TO USE AN E-COLLAR
There are times and situations where the use of an E-Collar, and especially of a shock collar, is NOT appropriate. Seek the help of a professional trainer, and never use an electric collar of any kind to address the following behaviors:
Addressing dog-dog, dog-human or dog-child aggression
Puppy biting
Crate frustration and separation anxiety
Resource guarding
Leash reactivity/aggression
Fearful, timid or anxious behaviors, especially in rescue dogs that have not had time to decompress (3+ months)
Keep in mind that the majority of behavior problems are the result of boredom, frustration, anxiety, immaturity, poor socialization, pain or confusion. E-Collars are not appropriate for resolving those behaviors (including reactivity, aggression, puppy biting, resource guarding and destruction), but can be used as part of an entire training program centered around building confidence, skills and independence.
Remember, shock collars are an outdated tool. There are better, more humane and more effective ways to train dogs, and the E-Collar can help you.
Ready to get started with E-Collar training your Great Dane?
There’s a reason why Great Danes are called the “gentle giants.”
They are one of the most docile and loving dog breeds out there. But this doesn’t mean that they don’t need training. In fact, if you don’t train your Great Dane, you’re in for a world of trouble.
This hilarious Great Dane fail post will show you why it’s so important to train your Great Dane and what can happen if you don’t!
This week we saw this video (above). A huge blue Great Dane has escaped from his leash or gate and is on the run, terrorizing everyone in his path. He’s chasing people, bouncing around, and just being an all-around menace. The people in the video are TERRIFIED!
Great Danes are massive dogs. They can weigh nearly 200 pounds and stand over six feet tall when they’re fully grown. They’re also incredibly strong.
So when they’re not properly trained, they can be a real handful.
THIS DANE FAILS VIDEO IS HILARIOUS, OF COURSE
Sure, it’s funny to see a Great Dane running around and having a great time. But it’s not so funny when they start knocking things over, jumping on people, chasing people, or worse.
The people in the video were afraid of this dog, and that’s not fair. This dog could have easily been hurt or seriously hurt somebody in the process of what only looks like innocent fun.
It’s very clear that this dog has no reliable off-leash recall and is lacking an appropriate amount of physical and mental enrichment overall.
Did you know that a wagging tail does NOT always mean that a dog is friendly and well-intentioned? Wagging tails can mean all sorts of things, and play is just one of them.
Three well-behaved Great Danes in a ‘place’ command.
Find a good trainer: If you’re having trouble training your Great Dane yourself, it’s a good idea to find a professional trainer. We recommend finding a trainer that uses a lot of positive reinforcement and balanced training tools such as e-collars, martingale, long leashes, treats, clickers, and prong collars.
Teaching a Great Dane E collar recall can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. In this dog training guide, we will discuss the best ways to provide recall for dog owners.
Read on to be able to provide your dog off leash freedom.
We’ll also cover how to use clicker training and positive reinforcement training. These skills are useful for the purpose of stopping the behavioral issues and getting reliable recall in your dog’s training. By following these tips, you can teach your giant breed dog recall with an e collar with this highly recommended training method.
Before Teaching Recall with an E Collar You Need Foundational Skills
It is highly recommend that you practice foundational training skills before teaching recall with a training collar. Teaching recall with an e collar is NOT a basic skill. Work on foundational skills first. These skills include: training on a flat collar/gentle leader, loose leash skills, and helping your dog to stop pulling on the leash. Your Great Dane should master basic skills before you begin teaching recall with an e collar.
Again, is crucial to teach basic skills before beginning to teach your Great Dane any type of recall.
It is important that every dog owner teach these basic skills. Foundational learning happens before beginning to teach your Great Dane Recall with an E collar.
You can work with a professional trainer to establish how to use these collars on big dogs. Also ask them to help maintain control over their off leash recall. Teaching recall with an e collar sometimes requires professional help, depending on your comfort level.
Different Methods of Teaching Skills Necessary Prior to Training Recall with an E Collar
Remember that it is important that your dog is trained prior to beginning training recall with an e collar. We put together a short list of a few methods in which you can help your dog learn foundational skills.
Clicker Training
Clicker training is a type of positive reinforcement training that uses a clicker tool to mark desired behaviors. The sound of the clicker tells the dog that they have done something right and that they will be rewarded with a treat.
Clicker training is a very fast and effective way to train dogs, and it can be used for basic obedience commands or more complex behaviors. Clicker training is a great way to build a positive relationship with your dog while teaching them new things!
One of the great things about clicker training is that it is very easy to get started. All you need is a clicker tool and some tasty treats that your dog loves. You will also need to find a quiet place to train where there are no distractions. Once you have all of your supplies, you can start training your dog!
To begin, you will want to click the clicker tool and immediately give your dog a treat. Do this several times so that your dog associates the sound of the clicker with getting a treat.
Next, you will want to start teaching your dog some basic obedience commands. For example, you can start with the command “sit”. To teach this command, hold a treat in front of your dog’s nose and slowly move it upwards until they sit down. As soon as they sit down, click the clicker tool and give them the treat. Repeat this process until your dog is consistently sitting on command.
Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement training is a type of operant conditioning. It rewards desired behavior in order to increase the likelihood of that behavior being repeated. Positive reinforcement is a way of “reinforcing” or encouraging a desired behavior. It does so by providing a pleasant consequence after the behavior is displayed. The most common form of this is giving a dog a treat after it has performed a desired behavior. This can be done after they sit or lay.
One of the main advantages of positive reinforcement training is that it is relatively easy to learn and can be used with both dogs and other animals.
Additionally, positive reinforcement training is often considered to be more humane than other types of training methods, such as punishment or dominance-based training. Finally, positive reinforcement is a very versatile form of training and can be used to teach a wide variety of behaviors.
There are a few things to keep in mind when using positive reinforcement training. Make sure the rewards you use are meaningful to your dog and that you deliver the rewards consistently.
Additionally, remember that positive reinforcement is not a magic bullet and will not work instantly. It may take some time and patience for your dog to learn the desired behavior. However, when done correctly, positive reinforcement training is a safe, humane, and effective tool.
Great Dane Recall with an Electric Collar: What is it?
Recall is an important skill for any Great Dane, or any dog, to learn. Following commands is a basic part of dog training and a vital/essential part of training a Great Dane. Teaching your Great Dane recall with an E collar may be one of the most important things you ever teach them. Why? Because one day, it could protect them from dangers or even save their life!
Shock collars or bark collars are very different than e collars. Many people stumble upon articles about training collars when looking up the best shock collar for training their dog in behavior. Recall, pulling, or other unwanted behaviors are common problems. Many times, owners resort to shock collars or bark collars for these common behaviors.
There is a difference between a shock collar and an e-collar. We will discuss which training tool is better. Before training your dogs with any shock collar, please be sure to investigate the differences between a shock collar and e collars.
Great Dane Recall with an E-collar: Why does it matter?
Using e-collars in training Great Danes (even a young Great Dane) allows you to train them to come back to you when they are off leash, which can be helpful in many situations. Teaching recall with an e collar provides safety, something that all pet parents value for their pets.
There are certain situations where the behavior of running off can be life threatening for dogs. Any experienced trainer will tell you that you must work on this behavior while your dog is a puppy in order to build focus and control. If you are concerned that your Great Dane might run off, run into the street, or even run away, you should consider teaching them recall with an e collar.
The ability to train your dog (or two dogs) to return when called is, of course, an important skill for any Great Dane to learn because it can help keep them safe. Teaching recall with an e collar allows you to provide your Great Dane with freedom to run and play, while also protecting them.
If your Great Dane ever gets off leash and runs away, being able to call them back to you can mean the difference between life or death. For example, if your dog is getting too close to a busy road, you can call them back to you before they have a chance to run into traffic. For that reason, we believe that teaching a Great Dane recall with an e collar is one of the most valuable lessons you can teach them.
Life Changing Collars for Dogs
If your dog is focused on their owner, a command can be given which could save their life.
We believe that recall is one of the most important skills that any owner of dogs can teach, since safety is so important, from puppy to adulthood.
Many want to jump directly to more flashy ‘quick fixes’ such as training their dog with a shock collar or training their Great Danes with the ‘best shock collars’ for fast training, but rest assured: It is always best to start dog training on a standard collar and providing solid a solid command that your dog will understand throughout life.
Additionally, using a shock collar in training your Great Dane can actually instill fear and intimidation, which could result in them becoming more defiant.
Step 1 to Teaching Recall with an E Collar: The Importance of Dog Training with a Leash
Before you begin teaching recall with an e collar, you must follow step one. Practice basic skills before you start teaching your Great Dane higher level skills with any training collar.
Working on a flat collar or regular collar will help ensure that your dog is listening to you and following your commands the entire time that you are out on walks together.
The foundation of teaching a Great Dane recall with an e-collar begins with basic, good citizen skills on a basic collar.
Training your Great Dane starts the day you bring them home. Dogs begin learning at birth, when they are born blind and deaf in a world they have to navigate!
When you meet your Great Dane, it becomes your responsibility to help them be the best dogs that they can be.
Steps to training your dogs
There are several steps you can take to build strong foundational skills:
Use a lead and collar that is comfortable for both you and your dog. This will help make walks more enjoyable for both of you and prevent any potential injuries, pulling or focus issues.
Start with short walks around the block or in your neighborhood with your dog. As your dog gets better at walking on a standard collar, you can gradually increase the length of and, at times, command them to wait next to you in a ‘heel’ position.
Make sure to provide plenty of positive reinforcement training during walks. This can include treats, petting, or verbal praise. There is an abundance of videos on how to include positive reinforcement while you train.
If your dog starts to pull on walks, stop walking and wait for them to calm down before continuing to give them any further commands. Pulling can be a sign of over-stimulation, and you should train this behavior with small and frequent training sessions to help dogs remain calm and collected.
You can utilize other tools during foundational dog training such as a prong collar, regular/flat collar, or a verbal command to help your dog train in a correct way.
Work on maintaining eye contact with your dog during walks. This training method will help your dog to focus on you and listen to your commands the correct way.
By following these steps and working with your Great Danes, you can build strong skills help them focus and not pull. Once you have a correct foundation, you can start on the course of working on teaching higher level skills with a training collar.
Please note:
Using a training tool such as a prong collar or e-collar is very different than a shock collar. We do not promote training your Great Danes or other dogs with the use of shock collars.
Using shock collars as a form of training is unethical and can have an impact on the way your dog views life, accepts a command, or represents the breed in regards to temperament and disposition. We do not recommend anybody to shock their Great Danes, and will not be recommending any shock collar or discussing the ‘best shock collar’ to train your dogs.
Long leashes are very helpful when teaching recall because they allow your dog to have some freedom while still being under your control.
There are a few things to keep in mind when using a long leash:
Make sure the long leash is long enough to provide freedom.
Attach the leash to a comfortable collar and find a space with plenty of room (20 feet or more).
Start by calling your Great Dane’s name and then giving the command to come. As they start to walk towards you, praise them and give them a treat.
If your dog does not come when called, do not pull on the leash or drag them towards you. This will only make them scared or resistant to coming when called.
It is now time to discuss the different settings on your e-collar. You will need to know these settings in order to teach recall on a long leash. Please note, when discussing these settings, we are referring to e-collar technology 900 series.
Continual Stim– This is when the e-collar is sending a continuous signal to your dog. During continual stim, hold down the stim button.
Momentary Stim– This is when the e-collar sends a signal to your dog for a brief moment. This is the most common setting used, but not always the best, depending on the dog’s personality.
High Performance/Boost– This setting is a mix of both continual and momentary stim. It starts off with momentary stim and automatically switches to continual stim if your dog does not respond.
Now that you understand the different settings on your e-collar, it is time to discuss how to properly use them when teaching recall.
Step 3 to teaching Recall with an E Collar: Timing
E-collar training (even while on a long leash) is all about timing.
When your Great Dane is on the end of the long leash, apply a bit of leash pressure, and direct them to come towards you with the word “come”. At the same time, press and hold your stim button (at their working level) with your e-collar programed to ‘Continual’ stim.
Watch your Great Dane and the MOMENT they turn their body to move towards you, begin dialing the ecollar down slowly with your thumb.
You will also want to use a marker word, such as ‘YES’.
Use the marker word when they turn their bodies to you. Using a marker word allows your Great Dane to understand the exact movement that you expect from them, and feel rewarded for it.
Think of it almost like a game of ‘hot and cold’. If your Great Dane moves closer when hearing the ‘come’ command, you get ‘colder’. If they move further, you get hotter!
Play this game consistently and daily so that your Great Dane knows what the word “come” means and associates it with returning quickly.
Step 4 to Teaching Recall with an E Collar: Introduce a Safe, Off-Leash Practice Area
Next, we will introduce a safe place for your Great Dane to practice recall without a leash.
Find a large fenced area where they can run around freely. It is important that the fenced area is secure and escape-proof.
When your Great Dane is off the leash, supervise them at all times. Do not leave them unsupervised even in a fenced area for risk of danger.
Additionally, you want to make sure that this ‘practice area’ is very low distraction.
Areas that would make bad practice spots may include dog parks, busy public parks, or areas that may remind them of fun memories they’ve had with friends.
Areas that make great practice spots include large backyards, quiet/empty parks away from streets, or fenced in, dog-friendly areas with no other dogs present.
Once you have found your practice location, begin implementing the same procedure of the ‘hot and cold’ technique, without the long leash this time.
Make sure to heavily reward them when they return by using the marker word, lowering the stim, and using treats (if you want).
Step 5 to Teaching Recall with an E Collar: Practice Makes Perfect with Your Great Dane
Using any tool in training with your dog/dogs is going to take dedication and time. Great Danes require patience in their training and the use of electric collars is not a quick fix. Be patient with your dog and remember that this training skill is something that is going to take time.
Even though people claim that shock collars are an ‘overnight fix’ in training their dogs, we recommend taking the time to train slowly and patiently with your dog on a reliable training collar such as the devices we highly recommend.
If you’re interested in purchasing one, be sure to check out our favorite collars for training dogs here:
We hope that you and your Great Dane love the process of learning recall as much as we do. The lifestyle of freedom, fun and exploration is waiting for you. Hard work and patience will pay off! Be sure to reach out with any questions you have.
Introducing a new E-Collar to your Great Dane can be a daunting task. It is important that you take the time to properly condition and train your dog with the E-Collar before using it in real-world situations.
In this blog post, we will discuss some tips and tricks for how to introduce an E-Collar to a Great Dane. We will also provide some helpful tips on how to use the E-Collar for training purposes. Let’s get started!
Need help with modern e collar training? Check out our guide.
This guide assumes you are using a quality E-Collar, NOT a shock collar from Amazon or the Pet Store! We recommend E-Collar Technologies or Dogtra only.
Step One: The proper fit is important. Make sure that the E-Collar fits your dog properly. It should be snug, but not too tight. You don’t want it to be so tight that it’s uncomfortable for your dog, but you also need to make sure that the stimulation prongs make consistent contact and don’t rub.
Step Two: Start with basic obedience commands. Before you begin using the E-Collar for training purposes, make sure that your dog understands basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. These are easy to teach using positive reinforcement and will make the E-Collar training process much easier.
Your dog doesn’t have to be amazing at these basic commands yet, but they should be able to do them when you are indoors at your house.
HOW TO FIND YOUR DOG’S WORKING LEVEL ON THE E-COLLAR
Once you have the E-Collar fitted properly and your dog knows some basic obedience commands, you can begin E-Collar conditioning. This is a process where you gradually get your dog used to the E-Collar and the language of stimulation.
Give the command to ‘come’ while simultaneously pressing and holding the E-Collar button on ‘Continuous’ mode. (Use your dogs working level).
As soon as your dog starts to come towards you, release the E-Collar button immediately and praise them lavishly! Reward them with a treat and more praise when they come to you.
Repeat this process many ways and in many places. The more you practice, the more confident you can be that your dog understands the stimulation and will respond to it.
Troubleshooting
If your dog doesn’t turn to come to you, they may be too far away, too distracted, or confused. A gentle tug on the leash may help communicate the command.
Think of your E-Collar like a cell phone!
A long leash is a landline.
The stimulation is the phone ringing. When your dog ‘answers the phone’, the ringing goes away and they are rewarded!
Good E-Collar use means relying on the tool as a communication device, not a corrections one.
Do not use your E-Collar as a threat or as a correction until you are well past the first several weeks of ‘conditioning’.
Spend more time saying yes than no, stay at your dog’s working level and keep it positive.
Rotate the collar every 2-3 hours.
An increase in your dog’s working level will likely be required as you move into more distracting areas! This higher level does not hurt or punish, it simply overrides the excitement of the environment.
It’s the difference between hearing your cell phone ring at home, vs. hearing and responding to it while at a noisy party.
There is almost nothing more dangerous than an out-of-control giant breed dog. Good leash skills are one of the most important things that you can teach your Great Dane! If you are ready to learn how to teach a Great Dane to walk on a leash, read on.
Don’t worry, it’s not as difficult as it sounds. With a little patience and some positive, thoughtful balanced dog training, you’ll have your Dane walking nicely on a leash in no time. Here’s what you need to know.
Step One – Teach Your Great Dane to Walk on a Leash 101
Step one: start with basic obedience commands like sit, look (at me), and touch (the palm of your hand).
You’ll need to have these commands taught at a basic level before you can move on to really teaching your dog how to walk on a leash. All of these skills are easy to teach using positive reinforcement!
Use lots of rewards. This helps your Dane build confidence and will help you install correct behaviors (which will come in handy if your Great Dane pulls a lot when you leave the house)!
You’ll notice a massive difference in your dog if you practice these skills even just 5-10 minutes each day.
Be consistent with your commands and rewards – always praise and treat your dog when they follow your instructions
Leash Walking Basics: Teach Focus and “With Me”
In this stage, you will work with your dog off-leash in your home or in a fenced yard.
If you don’t have space for safe off-leash work, use a long leash and an ergonomic harness (we do not recommend using ‘Petsafe’ or ‘Easy Walk’ no-pull harnesses on Great Danes).
Use lots of treats and with your Great Dane on the left side, take a step. Praise, treat and repeat.
Practice this until you can walk 10 steps or more between rewards. Add obstacles such as cones or balls, too, and practice walking around them together. Reward your dog for engaging with you!
Gradually introduce the leash, making sure to keep the training positive and upbeat. Keep the leash loose in your hands. It is only there for safety.
Many people struggle in this step of teaching focus, engagement, and calm behavior in all environments.
You may notice that your Great Dane does AMAZING with these leash training exercises when you are at home, but when you go somewhere new they forget everything that you’ve taught them!
Here are some tips for teaching your Great Dane to be calm in ALL environments:
Use structure and routines at home to encourage ‘calm’ settling behavior
Teach a ‘place’ command and build this skill up until you can say ‘place’ and expect your dog to settle there, no matter what
Make sure your Great Dane is getting enough physical and mental enrichment! The world is much less exciting to a dog that is satisfied. Proper enrichment will reduce anxiety, boredom, and the frustrating behaviors that result from not getting enough. (Read our blog post on bored Great Danes! and also the best toys for Great Danes)
Practice Leash Walking
Now it’s time to increase the difficulty! You’ll want to work on your leash skills in a variety of places with varying distractions.
Start off slowly, with just a few minutes of walking at first. Gradually increase the amount of time you spend walking together as your dog gets more comfortable ignoring the world and focusing on YOU.
When you encounter a distraction, ask your dog to engage with you and continue moving.
Continue to use a lot of positive reinforcement! This is how you teach your dog the correct behavior and increase the chance that they will repeat the behavior that you want.
THE BEST LEASH FOR GREAT DANES
We recommend that all Great Dane owners have three leashes:
1. A good long Biothane leash (for off-leash training and being in places where being off-leash is not legal)
2. A leather leash with a sturdy clip for everyday use and walking with a flat collar, martingale, headcollar, or prong collar
3. A leather slip lead for ease of use, training, and safety (slip leads are escape-proof!)
Prong collars are commonly used for Great Danes, but it is important to use them correctly. If you’re not sure how to use a prong collar, ask a highly qualified positive-balanced dog trainer for help.
Herm Springer is the ONLY brand worth buying; they cost more but they are built correctly and created with rounded edges so that your dog feels evenly distributed pressure, NOT pain during use.
A properly used prong collar, introduced with lots of positive reinforcement can be implemented in a way that is less harmful, less frustrating, less aversive, and safer for you and your Great Dane than a flat collar, ‘no-pull’ harness, choke chain or head collar.
Modern E-Collars are introduced in a positive way and use muscle stimulation as a communication (not sharp static ‘shock’). When used and conditioned properly, E-Collars from E-Collar Technologies can be an amazing and helpful tool for off-leash work AND developing better on-leash skills.
Harnesses have their place, however, for most Great Danes they are the wrong choice.
The only appropriate harness to buy for a Great Dane will have a y-front on it.
All other harnesses (including those marketed as ‘No-Pull’ such as the ‘Freedom’ or ‘Easy-Walk’ harness) work by squeezing the shoulders, throwing the dog off-balance, and restricting movement.
No-pull (front clip) harnesses are NOT good training tools for Great Danes. They rely on physical restraint and restrictions to movement that can be damaging to their shoulders, chest and gait. Just because it’s made of ‘nylon’ doesn’t mean it’s a ‘positive’ or ‘humane’ tool.
One big problem with choosing a y-front harness for your Great Dane is that if your Great Dane were to pull you, they have a ton of leverage to do so.
A proper Y-front harness should be used with a long leash and only with dogs that do NOT pull, lunge or react. We recommend the RUFFWEAR FRONT RANGE HARNESS.
We believe that all Great Danes should also be reliably off-leash trained. Good off-leash skills translate to great on-leash skills!
Reducing the reliance on a leash and collar for every activity is much healthier for them from a physical and mental enrichment standpoint, too.
Off-leash dogs cannot damage their gait, neck, or head by lunging into collars, harnesses, or ‘Gentle Leaders’. They also get to experience the freedom of movement which is very enriching to them.
Finding the best crates for a Great Dane is no easy feat when your pup is over 100 pounds.
Crate training a Great Dane is one of the best ways to make sure that your dog is safe, less able to make mistakes (such as peeing on your favorite rug), and less likely to chew up dangerous things such as cords and socks.
Great Danes are giant breed dogs and most dog crates are NOT big enough! If you are looking for information on the best crates for a Great Dane, including the best custom crates for Great Danes, we’re sharing our favorite below.
It is unlikely that you will be able to find appropriately sized Great Dane cages at your local pet store.
Most of the ‘largest’ dog crates sold are 48″, which most Great Danes will outgrow by 7-8 months of age! Great Dane kennel size is SO important because Great Danes need to be able to stretch their joints even inside of a crate.
Look for a giant breed 54″ crate. XXL crates typically come with a divider panel that can be used to make the interior smaller while your puppy is growing.
There are two main players for Great Dane Crates in the market: Frisco and Midwest Homes
PRO TIP:
Crate time should be limited to 1 hour per month of age. A 3 month old puppy should not expect to be comfortably crated for more than 3 hours between potty and movement breaks.
For orthopedic health, Great Danes should always have a soft and supportive surface to lay on.
If your Great Dane is destructive, we recommend the K-9 Ballistics Elevated Cot. It’s spendy but much cheaper than having to purchase a new bed every month! The K-9 Ballistics cot is nearly indestructible.
If you are wanting a crate that fits your home decor, consider a custom crate for your Great Dane! These are typically made out of wood and can have different stains, doors and exteriors.
Many Great Dane owners use custom dog crates as their TV stand!
Learn more about ordering a custom dog crate, starting at $1699 from BB KUSTOM KENNELS.
With countless dog trainers competing for your attention and hard-earned money, navigating the selection process can be daunting. It becomes even more challenging if you’re unsure about what makes a dog trainer good! I’ve compiled five dog trainer red flags, and am including some information to help you easily spot the warning signs. The dog… Read more: 5 Dog Trainer Red Flags (and How to Spot Them)
Ouch, puppy teeth hurt! Dealing with puppy biting can be challenging. While puppies are undeniably cute, they are not polite with their sharp little teeth. Puppy biting can be concerning for pet owners worried about aggression and frustrating for those trying to address it. I’ve boiled this down into 3 easy, effective steps, which can… Read more: Stop Puppy Biting in 3 Easy Steps
December is a popular time to get a new Great Dane puppy. I believe that a lot of this is related to the Holidays; puppies are readily available, adorable, and popular to receive or give for Christmas! If you are new to the world of Great Danes, or ready for a refresher, let’s jump in.… Read more: New Great Dane Puppy? This Guide is For You!
Do dogs get lonely? Dog owners have long suspected that their furry friends get lonely for a variety of different reasons. Some dog owners report lonely dogs when they have to leave their dogs home alone for too long, their dog is the only dog in the household, or their dog isn’t getting enough mental… Read more: Do Dogs Get Lonely? The Fascinating Truth Behind Canine Depression
Are Great Danes easy to train? Many people believe that Great Danes are stubborn, spiteful, and defiant. It can lead to questions about whether or not Great Danes are hard to train, especially as they are so large and can easily be destructive or dangerous. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips for… Read more: Are Great Danes Easy to Train?
Today we are talking about how to stop a Great Dane jumping up. These are large dogs that can easily hurt somebody, even if their intentions are friendly.
This behavior is often based in excitement and friendliness but it must be discouraged.
Does your Great Dane jump:
On you or kids?
All over guests or strangers?
Over and onto other dogs?
It’s time to put a stop to jumping once and for-all! Read on.
HOW TO STOP A GREAT DANE JUMPING UP
Jumping up is frustrating, however it does not have to be. We’re going to make this very simple:
To stop jumping, you must do three things:
a. Manage the behavior
b. Teach and reward the correct behavior
c. Make the incorrect behavior less rewarding
STEP ONE: MANAGE THE JUMPING UP BEHAVIOR
Practice makes perfect! A dog (or a puppy) that has been asked to jump up or encouraged to do so is a dog that is practicing the wrong behavior. If you want to stop your Great Dane from jumping up, you must first prevent the behavior.
Manage the environment so that your dog isn’t regularly put into situations where jumping happens.
Lower anxiety, stress and excitement levels by keeping yourself calm, too.
This temporary restriction to freedom is necessary so that you can break the cycle and your dog can no longer practice jumping.
Management may mean putting your dog behind a gate or on a leash when guests come over, and never asking the dog to jump up onto your shoulders ‘just for fun’.
(Don’t worry, you’ll be able to do that again once your dog understands the difference between jumping up on command and jumping up at will).
STEP 2: TEACH AND REWARD THE CORRECT BEHAVIOR
Before you can fairly fix the jumping problem, you must teach and reinforce (reward) the correct behavior. Instead of jumping, what should or could your Great Dane be doing instead?
Run to a crate and lay down in it when the doorbell rings
Sit politely on your right or left side
Grab a toy
Touch their nose to the palm of your hand
All of these behaviors are easy to teach using positive reinforcement. Use treats, praise and play and make it fun. Do short training sessions and end on a positive note.
If you are properly e-collar training and have fully conditioned your dog on an EZ or Mini-Educator, you can also layer in gentle negative reinforcement to further strengthen the correct positively-trained behavior.
Here is a great video from Tom Davis (Upstate K-9) on teaching the ‘Place’ command with positive reinforcement:
A Great Dane in a solid ‘place’ is calm, confident and cannot jump on guests
STEP 3 – MAKE THE JUMPING UP BEHAVIOR LESS REWARDING
Once you’ve reduced the behavior through management and spent time thoroughly teaching your dog the correct behavior, you can fairly and humanely correct the jumping. We’ve included 5 appropriate corrections for jumping below!
The goal with this step is to balance things so that it is more rewarding for the dog to go to a place or sit by your side than it is for them to jump on guests.
When your dog begins to jump:
Immediately turn your back and walk away. Jumping = no attention.
Sharply say ‘AH’ and apply a quick leash correction/pop. When the dog is then doing the correct behavior, praise and reward. This correction MUST be quick, snappy and deliberate. Constant pressure and escalating frustration will not work and will be a sign that the dog doesn’t know what to do instead.
Bring a knee up to make it uncomfortable for the dog to jump. (Do not whack or knee your dog in the chest! Just bring the knee up and pair that with ‘Ah Ah’, then reward when the dog chooses the correct behavior).
Walk into the dog as he/she starts to jump. This will allow you to use body pressure to discourage jumping before it starts.
Great Dane puppies need to learn how to have calm interactions with people so that a jumping habit doesn’t develop.
Never allow a stranger to come up, squeal in excitement and rile your puppy up! This is how you teach and encourage excitement and anxiety about people.
Advocate for your puppy.
Make sure that people are only giving your Great Dane puppy attention when they are calm and your puppy is calm. These interactions should be positive and gentle!
Do you have a jumping Great Dane? Share your story below!
Messy home issues aside, letting your dog get dirty may actually be one of the best things for them!
Great Danes LOVE mud and many dogs have a hard time keeping out of it.
There are actually biological and behavioral reasons for this! When your dog refuses to stay clean, they aren’t being stubborn. They are simply satisfying a desire to enjoy the moment.
SHOULD I ALLOW MY GREAT DANE TO PLAY IN THE MUD? MUD IS NATURAL PLAY FOR DOGS
So many dogs are not getting the physical and mental enrichment that they need.
A few rubber toys and a leashed walk on pavement is the human equivalent of living in a basement and walking on a treadmill. No wonder so many Great Danes are anxious, destructive, frantic and ‘stubborn’!
1000’s of years ago, dogs would roll in the mud to mask their scent from predators.
These days, dogs find this behavior to be very fun and enriching. The mud is cool, fun to play in and feels great on their paws!
Dirt and mud are full of unique and interesting smells. It feels good on paws and feet and provides an incredible opportunity to exercise the shoulders, hips, pasterns and core while digging, running and playing.
Dogs that dig up the garden and the lawn have given themselves an important job to do!
Pro tip: If you don’t want your dog digging up your garden, use supervision to prevent the behavior and make sure your dog is getting plenty of enrichment outside of the yard. You can also dedicate a ‘digging spot’ and redirect your dog to it until they understand that they are allowed to dig there.
Remember, lean & fit dogs live on average 2 years longer than dogs that are allowed to become lazy and overweight. Not only that, but the stress reduction can mean a reduction in bloat risk, too!
Once you’ve let your Great Dane enjoy the mud, you have to get them clean again.
Here are a few tips:
Make baths and cleaning part of a positive routine. If your dog is resistant, start slow and work up to making baths ‘no big deal’ by using treats, praise and fun. We recommend this Natural Dog Company Shampoo.
Use a MUDBUSTER; keep this by the door and train your dog to calmly wait while you wash each paw. Simply plunge their paw into the cup and watch it come out clean. This is GREAT for people who have muddy yards!
Use a microfiber paw dirt catcher mat.These feel great on paws and will pick up loose dirt, snow and water quickly as your dog runs over it.
Pro tip: Don’t use squirt bottles as a training method; all they do is teach your dog fear being sprayed with water (which they need when they are muddy)! (What is Great Dane Dominance Training?)
The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. We do our best to present the most up-to-date research, however it is up to the reader to make decisions regarding the health and well-being of their dog. We make no claims here to prevent or treat bloat, Panosteitis, DCM or any other condition related to Great Danes. Find a veterinarian with GIANT breed experience, and chat with them.
Some of the products we list on our website contain affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase, we may receive a small commission for referring you. We only recommend products that we truly believe in. This commission does not affect the price of the product and is used to fund our content and expenses related to operating this website.
