Connect with responsible Great Dane breeders and find the ideal breeding partner for your gentle giant
Understanding your Great Dane's giant size and gentle nature is essential for responsible breeding
Male: 140-175 lbs
Female: 110-140 lbs
Male: 30-32+ inches
Female: 28-30+ inches
7-10 years
Sadly short-lived
Gentle, Friendly
Gentle giants
Majestic appearance with elegant build despite size. Should never be clumsy or coarse. Noble bearing is breed hallmark.
Despite size, adaptable to apartments if exercised. However, tail is at coffee table height. Everything must be "Dane-proofed."
Known for gentle nature with children. Must be carefully socialized due to size. Lean on people they love - can knock over small children.
Grow rapidly from 1 lb to 100+ lbs in first year. Incorrect diet causes developmental diseases. Slow, steady growth essential.
Great Danes face serious health challenges with short lifespans requiring careful breeding decisions
LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH. Can kill in hours. Prophylactic gastropexy HIGHLY recommended. Feed multiple small meals, avoid exercise after eating.
Heart muscle disease common in Great Danes. Annual echocardiogram by cardiologist recommended. Often no symptoms until sudden death.
OFA or PennHIP testing required. Less common than in smaller breeds but devastating in giant dogs. Both parents should have good ratings.
Cervical spine instability causing wobbling gait. More common in Great Danes. No genetic test. X-rays can help evaluate risk.
Giant breeds at highest risk. Usually affects legs. No prevention. Extremely painful, often requires amputation. Usually fatal.
Hypothyroidism common. Annual thyroid testing recommended. Affects metabolism and behavior. Treatable but lifelong medication.
Annual CERF eye examinations recommended. Entropion, ectropion, and cherry eye can occur. Some lines prone to eye issues.
Painful bone disease in growing puppies. Linked to diet and vaccines. Can cause permanent damage. More common in Great Danes.
Bloat is the #1 killer of Great Danes. The stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood supply. Death can occur within HOURS.
Prevention strategies:
Emergency signs: Distended abdomen, unsuccessful vomiting attempts, restlessness, drooling. THIS IS A TRUE EMERGENCY - MINUTES COUNT!
Great Danes typically live only 7-10 years. Many die by age 6-8 from heart disease, cancer, or bloat. This heartbreaking reality means: Limited breeding years, early health issues, and preparing owners for short time together. Some breeders focus on longevity over size - dogs living to 10-12 are exceptional. Giant size comes with a terrible price. Consider whether breeding for extreme size is ethical given the health consequences.
Follow these essential guidelines for responsible Great Dane breeding
Male Great Danes
2.5 to 6 years
Female Great Danes
2.5 to 5 years
Wait for full maturity - Great Danes grow until 2-3 years. Short lifespan means limited breeding years. Many die by 7-8.
Great Danes face serious health challenges. Focus on cardiac health and bloat prevention. Consider gastropexy for all breeding dogs.
Females: Maximum once per year, 2-3 litters lifetime
Giant breed pregnancies are hard on the body. Allow full recovery
Short lifespan means fewer breeding opportunities. Quality over quantity essential
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Expert advice and tips for Great Dane breeding
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