The Great Dane Breed
The Great Dane Rescue of the Commonwealth is the front cover feature dog of The Virginia Maryland Dog Magazine AND I have written the "Seeking a Forever Home Profile" and "How do you know if a Great Dane is right for you?" pgs 42 & 43
http://issuu.com/thevirginiadog/docs/vamd_dogspr13_web?mode=window
http://issuu.com/thevirginiadog/docs/vamd_dogspr13_web?mode=window
Virginia Maryland Dog Article as it Appeared in the Magazine
Adoption of a Great Dane…Things you Should Know.
By Brenda Sickles
Published in Spring 2013 Edition of Virginia Maryland Dog Magazine p43.
If you are thinking about owning a Great Dane- a friendly, lovable dog affectionately known as the Gentle Giant- mealtime can be critical, as Great Danes must eat a high –quality diet in raised food dishes, and an adult must eat two equal sized meals (morning and evening), while puppies eat three times a day for the first year.
Additionally, the puppy’s food must have specific calcium-to -phosphorous ratio and specific fat and protein percentages to prevent rapid growth, which can cause orthopedic complications. Puppies eat 10 to 14 cups of food per day, tapering off to four to six cups per day as an adult. Like most large-sized dogs, Great Danes have a slow metabolism; therefore, adults do not consume as much food as expected in proportion to their size. The adults must eat in raised food dishes to prevent neck and spine injuries and extra air intake. The complications could cause bloat or gastric dilation volvulus, also known as GDV.
In addition to these important dietary concerns, it is important to know in advance that as with any large breed, Great Danes can sometimes, depending on the respective dog’s temperament, test boundaries, rules and limitations! Therefore, obedience training is required. When young (until the age of 2), it is best to crate-train to avoid destructive and unwanted behaviors. Like any dog, Great Danes require daily exercise for health and longevity with enough room to run and play. They’re boisterous when young (one to three years old), with an average activity level as adults (three to six years old). Too much liquid in the stomach prior to exercise can cause GDV. Their short hair needs occasional brushing. They need bathing bi-monthly, and their huge, thick nails need to be trimmed weekly, to keep them short and manageable. Their large ears must be cleaned weekly to prevent yeast infections.
A Dane pup doesn’t stay small long-for several months, they can gain up to a pound a day. They grow to full adult height within one year, while still having the intelligence and impulse control of a puppy! An adult Great Dane has an intimidating appearance due to its large stature. Males stand 32-39 inches tall at the shoulders, and they weigh 120 to 200 lbs. Females stand 28-32 inches tall and weigh 100 to 150 lbs. They have large, loose jowls that can produce slobber and drool. Many have large floppy ears, a box shaped head, and short hair with no undercoat. Since they do not possess multiple layers of fur to protect them from the outdoor elements, they are indoor dogs, and need to be a part of the family.
Known as the Gentle Giant, the Great Dane is friendly, and most have a great disposition with humans and animals. Great Dane owners are generally loyal to the breed having more than one in a household. Homes with Danes commonly have toy boxes in several rooms because Danes love toys and stuffed animals. They will hunt for a specific toy at the bottom of the toy box!
Contrary to the working dog decades ago, today you might find a Great Dane sitting on a couch, chair or soft surface. As people oriented creatures, they desire human companionship. A comical classic Dane pose is just their rump on a lap, or couch cushion, with front feet on the ground in front of them. Another notable pose is leaning on the nearest human for affection.
Due to the breed’s extra-large size, everything about their care is and feeding is more expensive than it is for other breeds. Great Danes are prone to health conditions, like all large breed dogs: they have a short lifespan -typically 8 to 12 years. Common ailments are heart disease, cancer, hip displaysia, tail injuries, also known as “happy tail”, gastric torsion & bloat, hypertrophic osteodystrophy, hypothyroidism and Addison’s disease.
The Great Dane appeared in Europe in the fifth century, and the breed most likely came to fruition from breeding a mastiff to an Irish Grey Hound, and, eventually, to Irish Wolfhounds. The desire was to create better boar hunters and guardians. Today’s Great Dane originated in Germany, and the breed is also known as, Deutsche Dogge, or German Mastiff.
How you know if a Great Dane is right for you
Characteristics of Great Danes
Disposition
· Highly social – Requires human companionship, best if not left alone for long hours. If pup is socialized with humans and other animals from a young age they are generally friendly. However, if not socialized properly, they could grow to become aggressive and prey driven.
· Curious- When young (or at least until 2) it is best to crate train to avoid destructive/unwanted behaviors. Unsupervised large breeds have the ability to chew any object when teething or feeling separation anxiety. It is best to keep them in a safe place to avoid injury and property damage until they can be trusted.
· Friendly- Known as the Gentle Giant, most have a great disposition with humans and animals. However, depending on the genetics and environment, some may become fearful of other dogs and strangers without the proper socialization and training. While these are common issues with all breeds they may appear exaggerated in Great Danes due to their larger size.
· Comfort seeking- They often like to sit on a couch, chair or soft surface. A comical classic Dane pose is just their rump on a lap or couch cushion with front feet on the ground in front of them. Most have a habit of leaning on humans, no matter the size. A lean against an unstable elderly person or child could cause accidents if unsupervised.
· Playful-Boisterous when young (1-3 years) and has an average activity level into adulthood (3-6). When playing, they do not realize their size and can easily knock down an adult. Activity with small children needs supervision. The height of their tail is about equal to a toddler’s face and a whipping tail to the face can be very painful and cause the child some discomfort. The mouth of a year-old Dane is at a child’s face level, increasing the risk of injury over food or toys when playing.
· Willful-Due to personality and size, it is extremely important that this breed attend a suitable obedience class. Depending on its temperament, a Great Dane may test boundaries, rules and limitations. Therefore, owners should be consistent with daily exercise, discipline, and training, and preferably be an experienced large breed dog owner.
Physical Characteristics
· The Great Dane pup doesn’t stay small long; in fact, for several months, they can gain up to a pound a day. They grow to a full adult height within one year, while still having the intelligence and impulse control of a puppy.
· The Great Dane has an intimidating appearance due to its large stature. Male Great Danes will generally stand on average between 32”-39” tall at the shoulders and weigh between 120-200 lbs. Females will stand on average 28”-32”and weigh between 100-150 lbs.
· Some have larger, or loose, jowls that can produce slobber and drool.
· They typically have large floppy ears and a boxed head shape.
· They have short hair and average shedding with no undercoat.
Health Issues
· Short lifespan like all large breed dogs. Typically live from 8 to 12 years.
· Heart Disease (cardiomyopathy, mitral valve defects, and persistent right aortic arch, etc.)
· Cancer (Osteosarcoma, Mast Cell tumors)
· Orthopedic issues, such as Hip Displaysia, Luxating Patella, and Cruciate tears
· Tail injuries, also known as “Happy Tail”
· Gastric Torsion & Bloat (GDV) – Built up gas in the stomach begins to suffocate the animal from the stomach pushing on the lungs. This can be from the animal taking in too much air while eating, or panting from anxiety during a thunderstorm. The Torsion occurs when the stomach flips and cuts off blood supply, killing the lower organs. Too much liquid in the stomach prior to exercise can cause this but it can also occur on its own from tension. This is a life threatening issue. Gastropexy is a prophylactic surgery to reduce the chances of gastric torsion. It involves tacking the stomach to the cavity wall. GDV may be genetically predisposed. The Great Dane is the #1 breed at risk to experience GDV and GDV is the #1 killer of Great Danes.
· Entropion/Extropian (eyelid malfunctions)
· Wobbler Syndrome (compression of spinal cord)
· Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy (HOD) (skeletal disorder of rapidly growing giant breeds)
· Hypothyroidism (thyroid’s inability to produce sufficient hormones to maintain metabolism)
· Addison’s Disease (hypoadrenocorticism- a defiency of hormones produced by Adrenal Gland)
PLEASE SEE THE HAND OUTS SECTION OF THIS PAGE TO GET MORE INFORMATION ON EACH OF THESE CONDITIONS.
Care
· Great Danes must eat a high-quality, balanced diet. They have a slow metabolism and adults do not eat as much as expected in proportion to their size. The Great Dane adult must eat two equal size meals (generally morning and evening). However, puppies may eat three times a day until they are able to consume the calories required in two meals. Puppies will consume a considerable amount of food as they mature tapering off to an adult portion at approximately one year. Growing puppies must be fed specific calcium / phosphorous ratios and specific fat and protein percentages to prevent rapid growth causing orthopedic issues. Since Great Dane puppies already grow at an accelerated rate, to hasten their growth prematurely would jeopardize their bone structure and shorten their life even more.
· Short hair and average shedding needs occasional brushing.
· Great Danes are indoor dogs. They do not possess multiple layers of fur to protect them from the outdoor elements.
· Bathing (monthly). Nails are huge and thick (trim weekly to keep short or at least bi-monthly). Ears are large and are a moist dark place for yeast to grow (clean monthly).
· Requires daily exercise to keep them healthy and actively engaged. The Dane needs enough room to run and play.
Due to breed’s XL size, their collars, toys, beds, food, medications, and medical needs are more expensive than they are for other breeds.
For more information regarding the medical conditions mentioned in this article consult:
Veterinary Partner – http://www.veterinarypartner.com
The American College of Veterinary Surgeons (animal owners section) www.acvs.com
Great Dane Links http://www.ginnie.com/gdlinks.htm
Michigan State University Veterinary Hospital https://cvm.msu.edu/hospital
Disposition
· Highly social – Requires human companionship, best if not left alone for long hours. If pup is socialized with humans and other animals from a young age they are generally friendly. However, if not socialized properly, they could grow to become aggressive and prey driven.
· Curious- When young (or at least until 2) it is best to crate train to avoid destructive/unwanted behaviors. Unsupervised large breeds have the ability to chew any object when teething or feeling separation anxiety. It is best to keep them in a safe place to avoid injury and property damage until they can be trusted.
· Friendly- Known as the Gentle Giant, most have a great disposition with humans and animals. However, depending on the genetics and environment, some may become fearful of other dogs and strangers without the proper socialization and training. While these are common issues with all breeds they may appear exaggerated in Great Danes due to their larger size.
· Comfort seeking- They often like to sit on a couch, chair or soft surface. A comical classic Dane pose is just their rump on a lap or couch cushion with front feet on the ground in front of them. Most have a habit of leaning on humans, no matter the size. A lean against an unstable elderly person or child could cause accidents if unsupervised.
· Playful-Boisterous when young (1-3 years) and has an average activity level into adulthood (3-6). When playing, they do not realize their size and can easily knock down an adult. Activity with small children needs supervision. The height of their tail is about equal to a toddler’s face and a whipping tail to the face can be very painful and cause the child some discomfort. The mouth of a year-old Dane is at a child’s face level, increasing the risk of injury over food or toys when playing.
· Willful-Due to personality and size, it is extremely important that this breed attend a suitable obedience class. Depending on its temperament, a Great Dane may test boundaries, rules and limitations. Therefore, owners should be consistent with daily exercise, discipline, and training, and preferably be an experienced large breed dog owner.
Physical Characteristics
· The Great Dane pup doesn’t stay small long; in fact, for several months, they can gain up to a pound a day. They grow to a full adult height within one year, while still having the intelligence and impulse control of a puppy.
· The Great Dane has an intimidating appearance due to its large stature. Male Great Danes will generally stand on average between 32”-39” tall at the shoulders and weigh between 120-200 lbs. Females will stand on average 28”-32”and weigh between 100-150 lbs.
· Some have larger, or loose, jowls that can produce slobber and drool.
· They typically have large floppy ears and a boxed head shape.
· They have short hair and average shedding with no undercoat.
Health Issues
· Short lifespan like all large breed dogs. Typically live from 8 to 12 years.
· Heart Disease (cardiomyopathy, mitral valve defects, and persistent right aortic arch, etc.)
· Cancer (Osteosarcoma, Mast Cell tumors)
· Orthopedic issues, such as Hip Displaysia, Luxating Patella, and Cruciate tears
· Tail injuries, also known as “Happy Tail”
· Gastric Torsion & Bloat (GDV) – Built up gas in the stomach begins to suffocate the animal from the stomach pushing on the lungs. This can be from the animal taking in too much air while eating, or panting from anxiety during a thunderstorm. The Torsion occurs when the stomach flips and cuts off blood supply, killing the lower organs. Too much liquid in the stomach prior to exercise can cause this but it can also occur on its own from tension. This is a life threatening issue. Gastropexy is a prophylactic surgery to reduce the chances of gastric torsion. It involves tacking the stomach to the cavity wall. GDV may be genetically predisposed. The Great Dane is the #1 breed at risk to experience GDV and GDV is the #1 killer of Great Danes.
· Entropion/Extropian (eyelid malfunctions)
· Wobbler Syndrome (compression of spinal cord)
· Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy (HOD) (skeletal disorder of rapidly growing giant breeds)
· Hypothyroidism (thyroid’s inability to produce sufficient hormones to maintain metabolism)
· Addison’s Disease (hypoadrenocorticism- a defiency of hormones produced by Adrenal Gland)
PLEASE SEE THE HAND OUTS SECTION OF THIS PAGE TO GET MORE INFORMATION ON EACH OF THESE CONDITIONS.
Care
· Great Danes must eat a high-quality, balanced diet. They have a slow metabolism and adults do not eat as much as expected in proportion to their size. The Great Dane adult must eat two equal size meals (generally morning and evening). However, puppies may eat three times a day until they are able to consume the calories required in two meals. Puppies will consume a considerable amount of food as they mature tapering off to an adult portion at approximately one year. Growing puppies must be fed specific calcium / phosphorous ratios and specific fat and protein percentages to prevent rapid growth causing orthopedic issues. Since Great Dane puppies already grow at an accelerated rate, to hasten their growth prematurely would jeopardize their bone structure and shorten their life even more.
· Short hair and average shedding needs occasional brushing.
· Great Danes are indoor dogs. They do not possess multiple layers of fur to protect them from the outdoor elements.
· Bathing (monthly). Nails are huge and thick (trim weekly to keep short or at least bi-monthly). Ears are large and are a moist dark place for yeast to grow (clean monthly).
· Requires daily exercise to keep them healthy and actively engaged. The Dane needs enough room to run and play.
Due to breed’s XL size, their collars, toys, beds, food, medications, and medical needs are more expensive than they are for other breeds.
For more information regarding the medical conditions mentioned in this article consult:
Veterinary Partner – http://www.veterinarypartner.com
The American College of Veterinary Surgeons (animal owners section) www.acvs.com
Great Dane Links http://www.ginnie.com/gdlinks.htm
Michigan State University Veterinary Hospital https://cvm.msu.edu/hospital
History
Country of origin Deutschland or Germany
Also known as Deutsche Dogge or German Mastiff and The Great Dane appeared in Europe in the 5th century and most likely came to fruition from breeding a mastiff to an Irish Grey Hound, and eventually, to Irish Wolfhounds to create better boar hunters and guardians. Today’s Great Dane originated in Germany, and is also known as, Deutsche Dogge, or German Mastiff. The Great Dane is a member of the working class breeds.
Also known as Deutsche Dogge or German Mastiff and The Great Dane appeared in Europe in the 5th century and most likely came to fruition from breeding a mastiff to an Irish Grey Hound, and eventually, to Irish Wolfhounds to create better boar hunters and guardians. Today’s Great Dane originated in Germany, and is also known as, Deutsche Dogge, or German Mastiff. The Great Dane is a member of the working class breeds.
Disposition
· Highly social – Requires human companionship, best if not left alone for long hours. If pup is socialized with humans and other animals from a young age they are generally friendly. However, if not socialized properly, they could grow to become aggressive and prey driven.
· Curious- When young (or at least until 2) it is best to crate train to avoid destructive/unwanted behaviors. Unsupervised large breeds have the ability to chew any object when teething or feeling separation anxiety. It is best to keep them in a safe place to avoid injury and property damage until they can be trusted.
· Friendly- Known as the Gentle Giant, most have a great disposition with humans and animals. However, depending on the genetics and environment, some may become fearful of other dogs and strangers without the proper socialization and training. While these are common issues with all breeds they may appear exaggerated in Great Danes due to their larger size.
· Comfort seeking- They often like to sit on a couch, chair or soft surface. A comical classic Dane pose is just their rump on a lap or couch cushion with front feet on the ground in front of them. Most have a habit of leaning on humans, no matter the size. A lean against an unstable elderly person or child could cause accidents if unsupervised.
· Playful-Boisterous when young (1-3 years) and has an average activity level into adulthood (3-6). When playing, they do not realize their size and can easily knock down an adult. Activity with small children needs supervision. The height of their tail is about equal to a toddler’s face and a whipping tail to the face can be very painful and cause the child some discomfort. The mouth of a year-old Dane is at a child’s face level, increasing the risk of injury over food or toys when playing.
· Willful-Due to personality and size, it is extremely important that this breed attend a suitable obedience class. Depending on its temperament, a Great Dane may test boundaries, rules and limitations. Therefore, owners should be consistent with daily exercise, discipline, and training, and preferably be an experienced large breed dog owner.
· Curious- When young (or at least until 2) it is best to crate train to avoid destructive/unwanted behaviors. Unsupervised large breeds have the ability to chew any object when teething or feeling separation anxiety. It is best to keep them in a safe place to avoid injury and property damage until they can be trusted.
· Friendly- Known as the Gentle Giant, most have a great disposition with humans and animals. However, depending on the genetics and environment, some may become fearful of other dogs and strangers without the proper socialization and training. While these are common issues with all breeds they may appear exaggerated in Great Danes due to their larger size.
· Comfort seeking- They often like to sit on a couch, chair or soft surface. A comical classic Dane pose is just their rump on a lap or couch cushion with front feet on the ground in front of them. Most have a habit of leaning on humans, no matter the size. A lean against an unstable elderly person or child could cause accidents if unsupervised.
· Playful-Boisterous when young (1-3 years) and has an average activity level into adulthood (3-6). When playing, they do not realize their size and can easily knock down an adult. Activity with small children needs supervision. The height of their tail is about equal to a toddler’s face and a whipping tail to the face can be very painful and cause the child some discomfort. The mouth of a year-old Dane is at a child’s face level, increasing the risk of injury over food or toys when playing.
· Willful-Due to personality and size, it is extremely important that this breed attend a suitable obedience class. Depending on its temperament, a Great Dane may test boundaries, rules and limitations. Therefore, owners should be consistent with daily exercise, discipline, and training, and preferably be an experienced large breed dog owner.
Physical Characteristics
· The Great Dane pup doesn’t stay small long; in fact, for several months, they can gain up to a pound a day. They grow to a full adult height within one year, while still having the intelligence and impulse control of a puppy.
· The Great Dane has an intimidating appearance due to its large stature. Male Great Danes will generally stand on average between 32”-39” tall at the shoulders and weigh between 120-200 lbs. Females will stand on average 28”-32”and weigh between 100-150 lbs.
· Some have larger, or loose, jowls that can produce slobber and drool.
· They typically have large floppy ears and a boxed head shape.
· They have short hair and average shedding with no undercoat.
· The Great Dane has an intimidating appearance due to its large stature. Male Great Danes will generally stand on average between 32”-39” tall at the shoulders and weigh between 120-200 lbs. Females will stand on average 28”-32”and weigh between 100-150 lbs.
· Some have larger, or loose, jowls that can produce slobber and drool.
· They typically have large floppy ears and a boxed head shape.
· They have short hair and average shedding with no undercoat.
Medical Issues
· Short lifespan like all large breed dogs. Typically live from 8 to 12 years.
· Heart Disease (cardiomyopathy, mitral valve defects, and persistent right aortic arch, etc.)
· Cancer (Osteosarcoma, Angiosarcoma - rapid growing silent killer, Mast Cell tumors)
· Orthopedic issues, such as Hip Displaysia, Luxating Patella, and Cruciate tears
· Tail injuries, also known as “Happy Tail”
· Gastric Torsion & Bloat (GDV) – Built up gas in the stomach begins to suffocate the animal from the stomach pushing on the lungs. This can be from the animal taking in too much air while eating, or panting from anxiety during a thunderstorm. The Torsion occurs when the stomach flips and cuts off blood supply, killing the lower organs. Too much liquid in the stomach prior to exercise can cause this but it can also occur on its own from tension. This is a life threatening issue. Gastropexy is a prophylactic surgery to reduce the chances of gastric torsion. It involves tacking the stomach to the cavity wall. GDV may be genetically predisposed. The Great Dane is the #1 breed at risk to experience GDV and GDV is the #1 killer of Great Danes.
· Entropion/Extropian (eyelid malfunctions)
· Wobbler Syndrome (compression of spinal cord)
· Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy (HOD) (skeletal disorder of rapidly growing giant breeds)
· Hypothyroidism (thyroid’s inability to produce sufficient hormones to maintain metabolism)
· Addison’s Disease (hypoadrenocorticism- a defiency of hormones produced by Adrenal Gland)
For more information regarding the medical conditions mentioned in this article consult:
Veterinary Partner – http://www.veterinarypartner.com
The American College of Veterinary Surgeons (animal owners section) www.acvs.com
Great Dane Links http://www.ginnie.com/gdlinks.htm
Michigan State University Veterinary Hospital https://cvm.msu.edu/hospital
· Heart Disease (cardiomyopathy, mitral valve defects, and persistent right aortic arch, etc.)
· Cancer (Osteosarcoma, Angiosarcoma - rapid growing silent killer, Mast Cell tumors)
· Orthopedic issues, such as Hip Displaysia, Luxating Patella, and Cruciate tears
· Tail injuries, also known as “Happy Tail”
· Gastric Torsion & Bloat (GDV) – Built up gas in the stomach begins to suffocate the animal from the stomach pushing on the lungs. This can be from the animal taking in too much air while eating, or panting from anxiety during a thunderstorm. The Torsion occurs when the stomach flips and cuts off blood supply, killing the lower organs. Too much liquid in the stomach prior to exercise can cause this but it can also occur on its own from tension. This is a life threatening issue. Gastropexy is a prophylactic surgery to reduce the chances of gastric torsion. It involves tacking the stomach to the cavity wall. GDV may be genetically predisposed. The Great Dane is the #1 breed at risk to experience GDV and GDV is the #1 killer of Great Danes.
· Entropion/Extropian (eyelid malfunctions)
· Wobbler Syndrome (compression of spinal cord)
· Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy (HOD) (skeletal disorder of rapidly growing giant breeds)
· Hypothyroidism (thyroid’s inability to produce sufficient hormones to maintain metabolism)
· Addison’s Disease (hypoadrenocorticism- a defiency of hormones produced by Adrenal Gland)
For more information regarding the medical conditions mentioned in this article consult:
Veterinary Partner – http://www.veterinarypartner.com
The American College of Veterinary Surgeons (animal owners section) www.acvs.com
Great Dane Links http://www.ginnie.com/gdlinks.htm
Michigan State University Veterinary Hospital https://cvm.msu.edu/hospital
Daily Care
· Great Danes must eat a high-quality, balanced diet. They have a slow metabolism and adults do not eat as much as expected in proportion to their size. The Great Dane adult must eat two equal size meals (generally morning and evening). However, puppies may eat three times a day until they are able to consume the calories required in two meals. Puppies will consume a considerable amount of food as they mature tapering off to an adult portion at approximately one year. Growing puppies must be fed specific calcium / phosphorous ratios and specific fat and protein percentages to prevent rapid growth causing orthopedic issues. Since Great Dane puppies already grow at an accelerated rate, to hasten their growth prematurely would jeopardize their bone structure and shorten their life even more.
· Short hair and average shedding needs occasional brushing.
· Great Danes are indoor dogs. They do not possess multiple layers of fur to protect them from the outdoor elements.
· Bathing (bi-monthly). Nails are huge and thick (trim weekly to keep short). Ears are large and are a moist dark place for yeast to grow (clean weekly).
· Requires daily exercise to keep them healthy and actively engaged. The Dane needs enough room to run and play.
· Short hair and average shedding needs occasional brushing.
· Great Danes are indoor dogs. They do not possess multiple layers of fur to protect them from the outdoor elements.
· Bathing (bi-monthly). Nails are huge and thick (trim weekly to keep short). Ears are large and are a moist dark place for yeast to grow (clean weekly).
· Requires daily exercise to keep them healthy and actively engaged. The Dane needs enough room to run and play.
Disclaimer
Due to breed’s XL size, their collars, toys, beds, food, medications, and medical needs are more expensive than they are for other breeds.
Not EVERY Great Dane will have all of these health problems, have identical traits, or be the exact weight or height mentioned. Not all Great Danes behave the same. A particular dog's overall disposition is dependent upon breeding, living arrangements, training, human interaction, animal interaction, and has much to do with the animal's situation (past and present).
This article was written by Brenda Sickles February 2013
Not EVERY Great Dane will have all of these health problems, have identical traits, or be the exact weight or height mentioned. Not all Great Danes behave the same. A particular dog's overall disposition is dependent upon breeding, living arrangements, training, human interaction, animal interaction, and has much to do with the animal's situation (past and present).
This article was written by Brenda Sickles February 2013