Working Dog Group - Great Dane

The Great Dane, known in its native Germany as the Deutsche Dogge (German Mastiff), is a statuesque dog, often referred to as the Apollo of the dog world. It is said to be descended from the Molussus hounds of ancient Rome, and, in the Middle Ages, was used as a wild boar hunter, companion, and bodyguard.

Coat: Short, dense, and sleek.

Color Brindle, fawn, blue, black, or harlequin (white, preferably with all black or all blue patches that have the appearance of being torn).

Features; Large, wide, and open nostrils; fairly deep-set eyes; triangular cars; very deep body; long tail, thick at the root and tapering toward the tip.

Size: Minimum height over 18 months: dogs 30 in, bitches 28 in. Minimum weight over 18 months: dogs 120 lb, bitches 100 lb.

Care: Needs regular exercise on hard ground and daily grooming with a body brush. A sad fact for owners of this majestic breed is that it lives for only 8-9 years.

Character: Despite its size, this breed should not be kenneled outside, but kept in the house as a member of the family. The Great Dane is good natured, playful, and easy to train. However, it should not be teased lest an action be misinterpreted.