The Great Dane was originally bred in Germany as a Boar Hunter. However, the Great Dane is no longer used for these purposes.  For his master, he is a desirable companion and protector as he is both strong and courageous. He is a very valuable watchdog.

The Great Dane’s strong, active form, great size, and fierce appearance render him a terror to aggressors of every kind.

The dog’s stature is about midway between that of the mastiff and the greyhound.  Overall, it is a very muscular, upstanding, alert, active dog.  It combines the activity and grace of the greyhound and the strength of the mastiff in a high.

Height
Males 30 inches, for females 28 inches

Weight

120 pounds for the male, and 100 pounds for the female.

Physical Characteristics:

The Great Dane’s head resembles a bull terrier. The ears are usually cropped.  However, in its natural state the Great Dane’s ears may resemble the Greyhound. The neck should be long, clean and join the head and shoulders neatly.

The tail should be strong at the root and tape at its end and be carried slightly curved and not much if at all above the level of its lower back. When the animal is calm its tail is carried very low.
Coat
The Great Dane’s coat is short and dense.

Colors
•    The dog can be found in the following colors:
•    Gray
•    Blue Black, White, Red, Fawn, Brindle or striped like a tiger.
•    Patches of dark color.

Common faults:
•    Too heavy or to round of a head

•    Brows are too pronounced

•    Face is too broad

•    Muzzle is too light, short, or not square enough at its end

•    Ears are too heavy or they are carried improperly.

•    Neck is too short or abnormally thick.

•    Chest is too broad or it maybe to narrow.

•    Back and flat loins are sunken or sway in appearance.

•    Legs may not be straight

•    Feet are twisted or splay.
•    Coat is coarse or long.

•    Tail is too heavy or curved too much. Tail also may be carried too high and/or curled into a sort of ring.

•    The Great Dane, like other large breeds, maybe weak in its hindquarters, thighs, and hocks. Also, Great Danes may lack symmetry, quality, and character.
Please be aware these dog are very athletic: