subscribe now to all about dogs magazine

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Great Danes

 

Great Danes

It is recommended that only reputable breeders should be approached when seeking breed information or if you wish to purchase a puppy.

 

See the advertisements in either this month's issue, our classifieds section, or our back issues featuring your breed of choice. Alternatively contact one of the clubs listed below for breeders in your area.

 

Gauteng

 
Great Dane Club

SA Great Dane Association
Chairman: Mrs J. Ratner
Phone: (011) 849 0596
ratner@iafrica.com

 
Group Club

Working & Herding Breeds Association, Golden Reef
Chairman: Mr. H. Kranz
Phone: (011) 972 9204 / 083 295 3358
articluvsa@intekom.co.za

 

Kwazulu Natal

 
Group Club

Natal Working & Herding Breeds Association
Chairman: Mr. T. Williams
(031) 562 9194

 

Border

 
Group Club

Quinera Working & Herding Breeds Club
Chairman: Mrs J. Simons
(043) 748 2859
jenny@net4u.co.za

 

Western Cape

 
Group Club

Working & Herding Breeds Club of the Cape
Chairman: Mr. R. Koning
Phone: (021) 903 3104
microelect@icon.co.za

 

 

Fact File - Great Danes

 

KUSA Group   Working
FCI Group 2

Original Function

 Boarhound – by name and function. Hunted in packs with backup of horsemen who usually finished the kill.  At this time were of an aggressive nature. 
Modern Function Companion

Appearance

 Large powerful dog, smoothly muscled, elegantly built. Short glossy coat.  Intelligent, attentive expression. 

Weight

Ideal weight: Dogs: Standard states 54kgs minimum
                    Bitches: Standard states 46 kgs minimum

In reality our Danes are more around 60kgs and 50kgs respectively
Height

Ideal height:  Dogs: Standard states 76cms minimum
                    Bitches: Standard states 71cms minimum

In reality our Danes are around 88cms dogs and 84cms bitches
Coat Colour

Fawn, Brindle, Black, Blue, Harlequin, Mantle (show colours)

Merle & Merlequin (non-show/breeding colours)
Coat Texture Short, dense, smooth.

Grooming

Needs brushing preferably two or three times a week.

Occasional bath. Regular nail trimming, clean teeth and ears regularly.
Personality/Temperament Gentle and affectionate nature if bred correctly, protective but not aggressive. Due to the breeds original fierce nature breeders need to ensure they constantly breed only stock of correct, stable temperament.  

Compatibility with other dogs

 Good
Compatibility with cats and other animals If reared with other animals and tolerance is impressed on them, they are very compatible.  Remember they were originally hunting hounds so might not adjust to ignoring the prey instinct if introduced as adults.  

Compatibility with people/children

 Very compatible if reared with and around children and the family and as part of the daily household routine.  A Great Dane is a house dog and MUST be reared as such.  

Living Space – Indoors/Outdoors

 Indoors – must have his/her own place with soft bedding somewhere in the house.  

Space and Exercise

 Needs a reasonable garden to run in and a couple of good walks a week but as a growing puppy a Dane must not be over exercised - a short walk around the block or at the park to accustom the dog to the lead and outside life is sufficient. 

Trainability

 Intelligent - trains well
Suitability as Watchdog
Not suitable.  If kept inside the house will protect, but they are not suitable for protection or manwork training and a Dane kept outside strictly as a watchdog will usually fail.  

Noise Factor

 In general they tolerate noise to a degree.  Some do develop thunder shyness.
Average Lifespan
8 or 9 years but some grow to 12 years or older.  As a Giant breed they do age faster than smaller breeds.
Feeding Feed a good -quality dog food - follow manufacturers recommendations for age and weight.  Puppy food must be specifically for large breed or giant puppies.  Do NOT feed any high protein-based food – preferably not over 23% - 25%  protein content. Do NOT feed any supplements and NEVER extra calcium.

Health

 In general good but unfortunately are prone to Gastric Torsion which is fatal if not dealt with by a veterinarian immediately.  Cancer – both bone and other forms.  Joint problems if not fed and reared correctly.
Availability Enquire via Clubs for reputable breeders and healthy puppies.  Be prepared to wait for well-bred puppies! 
Some questions to ask Breeders Ask to see the Sire (if available) & Dam–are they of calm and steady temperament?   Are the puppies KUSA registered ? Have puppies been de-wormed and vaccinated? Have parents been screened for Hip and Elbow dysplasia?