10 Things People Assume About Great Danes (But They’re Wrong)

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

a-great-dane-in-the-snow
Martin Tajmr/pixabay

Great Danes are often described as “gentle giants,” known for their impressive size and calm demeanor. However, there are several misconceptions surrounding this beloved breed. From their exercise needs to their temperament, many assumptions are made about what it’s like to care for a Great Dane. Let’s see ten common myths about these majestic dogs and set the record straight. You might be surprised by just how much these wonderful dogs can defy expectations!

1. They Need Huge Amounts of Space

Great Dane 3
David Kanigan/Pexels

It’s a common belief that Great Danes need vast yards or large homes to feel comfortable, but they can adapt well to apartment living. While their size might suggest otherwise, these gentle giants are surprisingly content in smaller spaces, provided they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. Daily walks, playtime, and bonding moments with their family are more important for their happiness than having a large yard. They tend to be relaxed indoors, often choosing to lounge and nap with their owners.

2. They Are Aggressive and Dangerous

Great Dane
mtajmr/Pixabay

Many people assume that Great Danes, due to their imposing stature, are aggressive or pose a danger to others. However, these dogs are more affectionate and gentle than most people realize. Known as “gentle giants,” they are typically calm and friendly, getting along well with children, other pets, and even strangers. Their protective instincts are usually directed towards their family, and they don’t have the aggressive tendencies often attributed to large breeds. With proper training, they’re loyal and loving companions.

3. They Have Short Lifespans

Great Dane 2
Làura Ronchinni//Pexels

Due to their large size, it’s often assumed that Great Danes have short lifespans, but this isn’t entirely accurate. While large dogs generally have shorter lives than smaller breeds, many Great Danes live healthy lives for 7 to 10 years. With proper care, regular veterinary visits, and a nutritious diet, their lifespan can be quite fulfilling. The myth surrounding their short lifespan is largely rooted in the rapid aging process that comes with larger breeds, but with modern veterinary care, they can live long, happy lives.

4. They’re Couch Potatoes

Great Dane in Lap
vladgrinch/Reddit

It’s easy to mistake a Great Dane’s calm nature for laziness, but these dogs require regular physical activity to stay fit and healthy. Though they love lounging around and can easily spend hours napping on the couch, they still need daily walks, play sessions, and opportunities to stretch their legs. Their moderate energy levels make them great companions for a variety of lifestyles. Don’t let their relaxed demeanor fool you—they enjoy active play and need a proper exercise routine to stay mentally and physically stimulated.

5. They Don’t Shed Much

Great Dane in the woods
mtajmr/PixaBay

People often think that because Great Danes have short coats, they don’t shed much, but this is a misconception. While their fur may not be as long as that of some other breeds, they do shed quite a bit, especially during seasonal changes. Their dense undercoats contribute to a steady shedding pattern, which can surprise new owners. Regular grooming and brushing help manage this shedding, and it’s important to stay consistent with upkeep to keep their coats shiny and minimize loose fur in your home.

6. They’re Too Expensive to Care For

Brindle Great Dane
kaicho20/Pixabay

While the initial cost of adopting or purchasing a Great Dane might seem high due to their size, their ongoing care is often not as costly as people assume. While large dogs eat more food, their basic needs—like food, grooming, and regular vet visits—are comparable to other large breeds. The misconception about their high maintenance cost often comes from their size and the belief that everything related to them will be pricier. In reality, they are manageable regarding expenses with proper planning and care.

7. They Are Untrainable

Great Dane 6
Ben Griffiths/Unsplash

It’s not uncommon for people to assume that Great Danes are difficult to train due to their large size, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. They are quite intelligent and eager to please their owners, making them responsive to training when approached with patience and consistency. They may require gentle handling because of their size, but with positive reinforcement techniques, Great Danes can learn commands quickly. Their gentle and calm nature makes them receptive to training, and they excel in obedience when given the right guidance.

8. They’re Fragile and Prone to Injury

dog with blue eyes
Lisen Kaci/Pixabay

Because of their enormous size, people mistakenly think Great Danes are fragile or prone to injury. While they are large and should be handled carefully, they are generally strong, resilient dogs. Like any large breed, they are susceptible to certain health issues like hip dysplasia or joint problems, but this doesn’t make them fragile. With regular vet care, proper exercise, and a healthy diet, Great Danes can live active, healthy lives. Their size requires extra attention to avoid injury, but they are by no means fragile animals.

9. They Eat Constantly

Great Dane
David Kittel//Pexels

Many believe that Great Danes are always hungry due to their size, but they don’t eat significantly more than other large breeds. Like any dog, they need a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs, but overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health problems. Proper portion control is essential to maintaining a healthy weight, and following feeding guidelines is key. While they may have a big appetite, it’s important to avoid the misconception that they need constant meals to stay satisfied. Moderation is crucial.

10. They Don’t Get Along With Other Pets

Great Dane sitting in a park
Matthias Zomer/pexels

Another misconception about Great Danes is that they don’t get along with other pets, but they’re quite social animals. When properly introduced, they can coexist peacefully with other dogs, cats, and even smaller pets. Their calm and gentle nature makes them well-suited to multi-pet households, and they are generally non-aggressive. It’s important to provide proper introductions and monitor their interactions, but the idea that they can’t live harmoniously with other animals is simply not true.

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