Who this breed is NOT for
Tight budgets (everything costs more), anyone who won't train a giant dog, or those who'd struggle with a heartbreakingly short life expectancy.
Bred to do
Originally bred to hunt boar and guard estates — now a gentle giant companion. Enormous size, surprisingly moderate energy.
Exercise needs
Moderate — daily walks and space to stretch, but not a high-endurance athlete. Careful with exercise while young; their joints and growth plates need protecting.
Temperament
Gentle, affectionate, calm, people-oriented — a true 'gentle giant.' Often thinks it's a lap dog. Can be sensitive and a bit timid without socialization.
Trainability
Moderate — willing and food-motivated, but training is non-negotiable: an untrained 150-lb dog is genuinely unmanageable. Early manners are essential.
With kids & pets
Usually wonderful with both — gentle and tolerant — but sheer size means supervision with small children (an accidental bump knocks a toddler flat).
Living situation
Adaptable, even to larger apartments given their moderate energy — but they take up enormous space, and everything (food, beds, meds, boarding) costs more.
Grooming & shedding
Short coat, easy grooming, moderate shedding. Some drool.
Health & costs
The hard truth: giant breeds live short lives (7–10 years) and are prone to bloat (a fast, fatal emergency — learn the signs), heart disease, and joint problems. Vet care, food, and even medication doses cost far more at this size. Pet insurance strongly recommended.
Best fit
People who want a calm, affectionate giant, have the space and budget, and can emotionally handle a shorter lifespan.
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A note from Kerri
Great Danes are some of the sweetest dogs alive — gentle, cuddly, and dignified. But go in clear-eyed: they're expensive at every turn, bloat is a real danger, and you get far too few years. Worth every one of them, if you're ready for that trade.
— Kerri, founder of Floyd's Love
Gear Kerri recommends
A few things that make this easier. As an Amazon Associate, Floyd's Love earns from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.
Casfuy 2-Speed Electric Rechargeable Dog Nail Grinder
A quiet, rechargeable nail grinder that provides a gentle alternative to clippers for at-home nail maintenance.
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Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush
An effective tool for daily brushing to prevent mats and distribute healthy oils across your dog's coat.
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Oxyfresh Advanced Ear Cleanser for Dogs & Cats
A gentle, vet-approved ear cleaner that helps remove wax and debris without the use of harsh chemicals.
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WeatherBeeta Reflective Dog Parka
This insulated, waterproof coat provides essential warmth for short-coated or small dogs during cold winter walks.
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Safari Pet Products Double Row Flea Comb
An essential tool for early flea detection and removal to prevent infestations from spreading to your home and other household pets.
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LuckyTail Pet Nail Grinder for Dogs and Cats - Super Quiet Low Vibration Electric Trimmer with LED Lights
Built-in dual LED lights illuminate the nail so you can clearly see the quick and avoid over-trimming, especially on dark nails.
Shop thisFloyd's Love is educational. Our lessons, breed guides, and personalized assessments are for general information and preparation only — they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care or advice from a qualified veterinarian or animal behaviorist. Always consult your vet for medical concerns and a qualified professional for behavior issues.