6 Pros and Cons of Owning a Great Dane

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.

great dane
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Great Danes are often called the “gentle giants” of dogs, winning over hearts with their impressive size and kind nature. They naturally draw attention, but people love them for much more than their appearance. Having a Great Dane can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges, as these dogs have special needs and traits that make them different from other breeds. Before you decide to bring a Great Dane home, let’s look at some of the main advantages and disadvantages of owning one.

1. Friendly and Gentle Nature

Friendly and Gentle Nature
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Great Danes are known for their friendly and gentle nature, making them wonderful companions for both individuals and families. Their relaxed and friendly nature helps them connect easily with both adults and kids. Great Danes, though quite large, are famous for being patient and loving. They often show this by snuggling or just sticking close to their owners. They are gentle and loyal, which makes them one of the most loving breeds and gives them a reputation as great family dogs. If you want a loving and devoted companion, a Great Dane’s friendly personality could be just what you need.

2. Low Exercise Requirements

great dane
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Great Danes may be large, but their exercise needs are quite manageable, which often surprises many owners. Great Danes are different from some large and energetic breeds; they don’t need hours of intense exercise. Most of the time, they enjoy a few brief walks and some playtime every day. They like to run or play fetch sometimes, but mostly, they are happy to relax indoors for most of the day. These dogs are a great choice for people with moderate activity levels and for those living in apartments who might not have enough outdoor space for a very active dog.

3. Good Watchdogs

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Great Danes are great natural watchdogs because of their large size and deep, resonant bark. They are usually calm and friendly, but just having them around can keep intruders away. Great Danes are known for being very protective of their family and home, often letting their owners know about any unusual happenings. This natural protective instinct gives many owners a feeling of security, even though Great Danes are not typically aggressive. If you’re looking for a companion that brings a sense of security, the Great Dane’s impressive size and watchful nature are great benefits.

4. Relatively Low Grooming Needs

great dane
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Great Danes have a short, smooth coat that needs very little grooming, making it a great choice for busy owners. Brushing your pet’s coat once a week is typically sufficient to maintain its healthy and shiny appearance. Great Danes shed less than many other breeds, making grooming easy to handle. They need occasional nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental hygiene maintenance, but overall, their grooming needs are straightforward. This easy routine makes Great Danes a great option for pet owners who might not have the time or interest in a lot of grooming.

5. Loyal and Protective

great dane
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A Great Dane’s loyalty is truly one of a kind. These dogs are famous for creating deep connections with their families, often following their owners around all day. Their strong loyalty and dedication drive them to be eager to please and quick to follow commands. Great Danes are naturally protective and often keep watch over their family, staying alert to any possible threats. They may not show aggression often, but their loyalty and protectiveness provide a sense of comfort for anyone seeking a trustworthy and devoted friend.

6. Good with Other Pets

great dane
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Great Danes usually get along nicely with other pets, particularly when they are introduced slowly and socialized from a young age. Their relaxed and friendly demeanor helps them get along well with other dogs and even cats. Great Danes are usually friendly and not aggressive with other animals, making them a great choice for homes with multiple pets. They typically adapt easily to their surroundings and can quickly bond with other pets, creating a pleasant atmosphere for families with existing animals.

7. Short Lifespan

great dane
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One of the sad truths about having a Great Dane is their shorter lifespan, usually between 7 to 10 years. Great Danes are big dogs, and their size can lead to health problems that may shorten their lifespan. It can be tough for owners to part ways so quickly, especially after building a close connection with their pets. If you’re thinking about getting a Great Dane, it’s important to know that they might not live as long as smaller breeds, which can be tough for those who form strong bonds.

8. High Veterinary Costs

great dane
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Great Danes are big dogs, and because of their size, they can be prone to health issues like hip dysplasia and heart disease, which can lead to higher veterinary expenses. Taking care of larger breeds often means that routine check-ups, medications, and treatments can cost more. When health issues come up, treatments can get pricier because of their complexity and the need for specialized care. Owners should be ready for possible costs that could exceed the usual amount. Thinking about getting a Great Dane? It’s essential to consider the financial commitment involved for your family.

9. Space Requirements

great dane
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Great Danes require plenty of room to move around comfortably because of their large size. Having a dog in a small apartment or a home with limited space can be tough for both the pet and the owner. They need a cozy space to stretch out and enough room to move around without hitting furniture or accidentally breaking things. Their size might not make them ideal for families with very young children, as they could accidentally bump into the little ones. If you live in a smaller space, having a Great Dane might be a challenge due to their size.

10. Prone to Bloat

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Bloat, also known as gastric torsion, is a serious issue that impacts many large dog breeds, such as Great Danes. Bloat happens when a dog’s stomach fills with gas and twists, which can cut off blood supply and create a serious emergency. Look out for signs like drooling, restlessness, and a swollen belly. These symptoms need quick attention from a vet. Great Dane owners should stay alert and understand the risks by feeding smaller, more frequent meals to help lower the chance of bloating. It’s important for anyone thinking about getting a Great Dane to understand this risk and be ready to respond quickly.

11. Expensive Food Bills

great dane
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The costs associated with feeding a Great Dane can be quite high. Because of their size and nutritional requirements, they eat a lot of high-quality food. Food expenses can increase fast, particularly if your Great Dane needs a special diet. It’s important to give them a balanced diet for their health and long life, but owners need to be prepared for the financial commitment involved. People who aren’t ready for the expenses of feeding a large breed might see this part of owning a Great Dane as a bit tough.

12. Clumsy Tendencies

great dane
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Great Danes, particularly as puppies, can be somewhat awkward because of their big and tall frame. Puppies are still figuring out how to handle their size, which can lead to some unintentional bumps and spills in the house. Great Danes can sometimes be a bit clumsy, even as adults, especially when they’re feeling excited or playful. These mishaps are more noticeable and can be a bit inconvenient due to their size. If you’re thinking about getting a Great Dane, remember that their clumsiness might sometimes result in a few broken things or small mishaps.

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