The Great Dane
The Great Dane
Origins
Most specialists tend to agree that the Great Dane breed (also named German Mastiff, Danish Hound, Boarhound, Deutche Dogge) has old origins, dating from the Egyptian people, around 3000 b.C. In a more recent period, some 400 years ago, in the regions of Germany, these dogs were known and used as spectacular boar hunters, due to their large body size and power. It was later on named Deutche Dogge, right after Germany was united in one state. It is stated that the German Mastiff could have as breed ancestor the Bullenbeisser, accompanied by some Irish wolfhound and Mastiff lines. This breed has suffered various breed standard modifications.
Appearance
The Danish Hound (Great Dane) belongs to the giant or big dog breeds category, displaying a height of 74-80 cm at the withers and a weight of 67-90 kg. These measurements differ from male to female dog. Male dogs have a stronger musculo-skeletal structure, a larger and square ratio body frame, with heavy bones. Females can have a longer body, but the proportions respect the height parameters. This breed is the only one who is listed in the Guinness Book of Records, for the amazing height of 1m 7cm at the withers displayed by Gibson, a Great Dane from California.
The coat varies in color, being either brindle (tiger stripes included), black, blue, mantle (white and black with a wide black area covering the body). These coat colors won’t be fully seen, but as variations and mixtures, especially in the collar area, the chest, the face and muzzle (many times – a mask), the torso (mostly covered by black coat with some white areas), the legs (never fully white, but with stripes and dots).
The head is well proportioned, showing medium ears, lowered on the sides or fully erected. The eyes are colored in black, dark brown. The muzzle is long and blunt, with strong jaws and sharp teeth, and it ends in a black nose.
The legs are strong and powerful, the hips are large and fit for endurance and exercising. The body ends in a long and pointy tail.
Grooming
The Great Dane is a medium to low shedder. Most of the coat is kept in great shape by brushing and cleaning once a week. This grooming effort should be doubled during the shedding season or if you intend to let your dog participate in any dog show. You can also check in the ear areas for any traces of dust or unknown particles, not to develop any ear infections later.
Health Facts
The German Mastiff has a lifespan of 11-14 years, with exceptions. Because the Great Danes have a slow metabolism, they are prone to some common dog health problems:
- bloat (especially if your dog drinks a large quantity of liquids in short time);
- bone problems (the common hip dysplasia);
- heart problems (some congenital disorders, including the dilated cardiomyopathy)
- genetic disorders (the lack of coat color near the ear and eye areas show an improper functioning
of a certain organ – these are symptoms of deafness or blindness);
Temperament and Lifestyle
Don’t be scared by the gigantic posture and features displayed by the Great Dane. These dogs are called by many dog lovers as “gentle giants”. They are calm, gentle, intelligent dogs, behaving well among other dogs and pets. They display loyalty and a good disposition towards humans. Due to the large size, these dogs should be supervised while near children, to prevent the accidental knockback or falling. The Great Danes make good guard dogs, being protective and alert.
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