Great Dane Breed Profile

Description

The Great Dane combines, in its regal appearance, dignity, strength and elegance with great size and a powerful, well-formed, smoothly muscled body. It is one of the giant working breeds, but is unique in that its general conformation must be so well balanced that it never appears clumsy, and shall move with a long reach and powerful drive. It is always a unit-the Apollo of dogs. A Great Dane must be spirited, courageous, never timid; always friendly and dependable. This physical and mental combination is the characteristic which gives the Great Dane the majesty possessed by no other breed. It is particularly true of this breed that there is an impression of great masculinity in dogs, as compared to an impression of femininity in bitches. Lack of true Dane breed type, as defined in this standard, is a serious fault.

Coloring

Brindle, Fawn, Blue, Black, Harlequin, and Mantle.

Temperament

The Great Dane must be spirited, courageous, always friendly and dependable, and never timid or aggressive.

Origin

The Great Dane has an extensive history, tracing back more than 400 years ago. Ancestors were known in Ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt. While they are traced to those regions, the Great Dane was perfected in Denmark. DaneÆs are the product of selective breeding between the English Mastiff and the Irish Wolfhound. Up until 1749 the breed was referred to as the Danish Dog.

Care Level

Easy