Great Dane – the largest dog in the world

A quick introduction to the breed

The Great Dane, often called the “Great Dane” internationally, is a tall and elegant breed that attracts attention everywhere it goes. Many know it as “the largest dog in the world,” but far fewer know what daily life with such a large dog is actually like.

This is a breed for anyone who wants a calm, close and loyal companion — and who doesn’t mind having a dog that is taller than you when it stands on its hind legs, and can rest its head on the kitchen counter without effort.

The history of the Great Dane

The Great Dane has a long and fascinating history. The breed’s roots go back thousands of years, and it was originally bred as a hunting dog for large game such as wild boar and deer. Its size, strength and courage made it an effective working dog.

Although the name suggests Danish origins, the breed was largely developed in Germany, where it was shaped into the elegant and powerful dog we know today. Over time, the Great Dane also became a status symbol among nobility and upper classes, largely thanks to its majestic appearance.

The world’s largest dog – how big does a Great Dane get?

When talking about the Great Dane, you simply can’t avoid the topic of size. Breed records show individuals standing over one meter at the shoulder, and more than two meters tall when standing on their hind legs. Such dogs are rare, but they show the breed’s potential.

Typical size of an adult Great Dane:

• Height at the shoulder: about 71–86 cm (males are usually taller)
• Weight: around 45–90 kg
• Build: long, muscular and elegant

Despite its size, the Great Dane is known as a “gentle giant” — a sweet, calm companion who loves its family deeply.

Temperament – a gentle and loyal family dog

The Great Dane is first and foremost a family dog with a strong need for closeness. It loves being where you are, follows you from room to room and often rests its head in your lap for affection. Many owners say the dog simply does not understand how big it really is.

Common traits in the Great Dane:

• Calm and well-balanced indoors
• Affectionate and loyal toward the family
• Often patient with children, but can be a bit clumsy
• Sensitive and soft-natured — does not respond well to harsh corrections
• Friendly with strangers when properly socialized

This is not a dog that needs hours of intense daily exercise, but it does need regular walks, mental stimulation and — most importantly — to be included in family life.

Does a Great Dane need a lot of space?

Surprisingly, a Great Dane doesn’t necessarily need a huge house, but it does need enough room to move safely indoors. Slippery floors and narrow staircases are less than ideal for a dog of this size and weight.

What does require space (and budget) are the things around the dog:

• A large and comfortable dog bed
• Stable food and water bowls at the right height
• A car that can actually fit the dog safely
• More food than an average dog — and higher costs because of it

As long as the dog gets good walks and enough rest, a Great Dane can live well even in an apartment — though everyday life is definitely easier with a bit more space.

Health and lifespan

One important thing to know before getting a Great Dane is that giant breeds often have shorter lifespans than smaller dogs. The average lifespan for a Great Dane is usually between 6 and 10 years.

Common health challenges include:

• Hip dysplasia (HD)
• Heart conditions
• Bloat (gastric torsion)
• Certain types of cancer, including bone cancer

To give your dog the best start in life, it’s essential to choose a responsible breeder who health-tests their breeding dogs, schedule regular vet check-ups and adjust food and activity levels properly during the growth phase.

Puppyhood and training

Great Dane puppies grow extremely fast, and it’s tempting to think they can “handle everything” because of their size. The truth is the opposite: their bones and joints are especially vulnerable while they grow.

Important things to remember during puppyhood and adolescence:

• Several short walks instead of long, heavy sessions
• Avoid lots of jumping, stair climbing and rough play on slippery floors
• Feed a diet formulated for large breeds to ensure controlled growth
• Focus on calm, positive and consistent training

Great Danes are usually eager to learn but can also be a little stubborn. With clear boundaries, patience and reward-based training, you’ll develop a safe, well-behaved dog — something especially important when it weighs as much as an adult human.

Is the world’s largest dog the right dog for you?

The Great Dane is a wonderful breed for those who want a calm, social and loving family dog, and who are also prepared for the responsibility and costs that come with owning such a large breed.

This breed may suit you if you:

• Want a close, loyal companion who loves affection
• Have time to include the dog in your everyday life
• Have the budget for food, insurance and vet bills for a giant breed
• Are comfortable with the breed’s relatively shorter lifespan

If you can offer a Great Dane security, care and a stable home, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most loving and devoted dogs there is — a gentle giant who quickly becomes a cherished member of the family.